The purpose of pastoral formation is to prepare you for the priesthood. Thus, the program is organized to develop within you the guidelines of a “true shepherd of souls.” This development “calls for the priest’s personal commitment to develop the knowledge and skills to teach and preach well, to celebrate the sacraments both properly and prayerfully, and to respond to people’s needs as well as take initiative in the community that holy leadership requires.” (PPF #238) The document of the Priestly Life and Ministry Committee of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops entitled As One Who Serves states:
“Ministry is the task and responsibility of all baptized members, and not the sole possession of one part of the Church. The reality, the tensions, and the opportunities of the “one and many,” operate also in the mystery of the Church and her life and mission. The Church expresses its one ministry in a multiplicity of ministries. In that context, a primary responsibility of the priest is to call forth leadership from that community. The priest encourages, enables, and supports the laity in offering their gifts or charisms in service to others.” (Chapter III, p. 34, “Relationship with Laity”)
A carefully designed and supervised active pastoral involvement is an integral part of the total program here at St. Mary’s Seminary. Field education consists of a combination of the ministerial, academic, and spiritual aspects of formation through the diverse ministries that the apostolate requires. Let these experiences help prepare you for the duties of your vocation.
This preparatory program provides many practical experiences that form the basis of your future ministry. For example, the field education program will:
The actual hours of involvement and commitment at the parish or agency will vary according to each program.
The director of the program in collaboration with the Rector of the Seminary and the Dean of the Graduate School will approve your placement selection, whether in parishes, agencies, or institutions.
In field education ministry, seminarians receive no fees nor stipends. In some instances however a parish may be asked to assist with travel expenses you may incur.