Formation for Priesthood
What does 'formation' mean?
When a man arrives at Allen Hall he begins a six year period of formation for the priesthood. The word 'formation' is significant. This time is not just about 'studying' or 'training' for the priesthood, it is about growing to become more like Christ the Good Shepherd - it involves the whole person. The studies we do and the skills we learn are still hugely important, but even more important is the person we are becoming - a person of faith, of sincere love and compassion, of integrity. Someone who is generous in sharing the gifts God has given him and putting them at the service of God's people, but also someone who knows his own weaknesses and knows how to face them honestly and if necessary to live with them with humility.
Who is responsible?
Who is responsible for this process of formation? Of course there are people to help: the formation team at the seminary, the spiritual director, and the bishop himself. But ultimately it is the Holy Spirit who is responsible - he guides and challenges and changes us so that we can become more like Christ. And in the day-to-day reality of formation it is the seminarian himself who is the primary 'agent of formation': He is the one who must take responsibility for this great journey towards priesthood, giving his heart and mind and energies to all that happens over these six years, facing the opportunities and challenges with honesty and enthusiasm.
This section of the website gives a taste of how the formation process works at Allen Hall.