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 an intentional formation program to assist men in discerning a call to ordained priesthood. This program provides fellowship through Koinonia household, formation and retreats throughout the academic year, mentorship from a priest, and additional coaching and support as men discern their personal vocations and take practical steps toward investigating and applying to major seminary.