Our formation program concentrates
on several areas key to Vincentian life: theological competence,
preparation for ministry, spiritual/personal development, and
commitment to life in community as a priest or brother. Let’s
briefly describe what we expect in each area.
Theological competence occurs by
full-time enrollment in a Masters of Divinity program at either
Immaculate Conception Seminary in Huntington, New York or St.
John's Seminary in Camario, CA. Our men are enrolled with diocesan
candidates in a four- year program to acquire the theological
education necessary for ministry. They study scripture, morality,
church history, doctrinal development, and pastoral ministry. They
also take elective courses to deepen their knowledge base in a
specific area of theology.
Preparation for ministry occurs in
two direct ways. During the academic year, seminarians work one
afternoon and evening a week in a ministerial setting: visiting the
sick in a hospital, tutoring children in a school, counseling
prisoners in a jail, or assisting in a Catholic social service
agency. They come together bi-monthly to reflect on their
ministerial experiences, and receive feedback from an on-site
supervisor. In the summer, seminarians live and work in Vincentian
ministries throughout the eastern province: city and rural
parishes, migrant missions, and our mission in Panama. This way,
seminarians experience different forms of community life and active
ministry.
Spiritual and personal development
refers to the seminarian’s responsibility to maintain a vibrant
prayer life, engage in regular spiritual direction, and immerse
himself in Vincentian spirituality. This involves assessment of the
seminarian’s abilities as well as areas needed for growth and
improvement. Yearly self-assessment and evaluation by the formation
team is utilized to enhance a seminarian’s personal growth.
Commitment to community life is
closely related to preparation for ministry and spiritual and
personal growth. By sharing in communal prayer, work, and social
events, the seminarian develops skills to foster a healthy
community life.