How does a man become a priest?
Becoming a priest involves several stages. While these vary slightly from diocese to diocese in length of time and format, the following outline is offered as a general view of formation programs: CONTACT: A man who is interested in the priesthood but still searching for the answer to the question “What does God want of me? ” could join a Discernment Program with the diocese. The process begins by contacting his pastor or the Vocation Director. This is usually a very flexible program whereby the man meets with a priest and or a group of others interested in the priesthood on a regular basis and shares in experiences of prayer and community. CANDIDATE: A more formal relationship with the diocese occurs when the man becomes a candidate. At this time he begins the process of interviews and meetings with the representative of the vocations office. Once the diocese has accepted the candidate, he then begins the process. (Please see THE APPLICATION PROCESS on this Web Site.) SEMINARIAN: The
