Priestly Discernment Program
“Without priests the Church would not be able to live that fundamental obedience which is at the very heart of her existence and her mission in history, and obedience in response to the command of Christ: ‘Go therefore and make disciples of all nations’ (Matt. 28:19) and ‘Do this in remembrance of me’ (Luke 22:19; cf. 1 Cor. 11:24), i.e., an obedience to the command to announce the Gospel and to renew daily the sacrifice of the giving of his body and the shedding of his blood for the life of the world” (Pastores Dabo Vobis, No. 1).
Understanding the vital role of the priesthood in the Church, Franciscan University offers a Priestly Discernment Program to begin training men for the ministerial priesthood. This four-year program prepares men academically and spiritually for entrance into a major seminary
The priestly discernment program is in complete conformity with the recommendations of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops as stated in their program of priestly formation. It focuses on a balanced preparation in philosophy, theology, and living the spiritual life. The University awards a Priestly Discernment Program Certificate to a man who is a member of a priestly discernment household and successfully completes all the requirements. This certificate is a mark of achievement and may greatly facilitate entrance into a major seminary or religious order.