Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Why does the Church need priests?

A. The Eucharist is the source and summit of the life of the Church. Without the Eucharist, there is no Church. In a sacramental way, Christ is present to the Church in the person of the priest. All of the sacraments offer a personal encounter with Christ, and the priest is the one who offers the sacraments.

Q. How do I know if God is calling me to the priesthood?

A. Today, many people look to the future and ask: "What do I want to do with my life?" The proper question is: "God, what do you want me to do with my life for you?" To know if you are being called, you must have a prayerful relationship with God, since God is the one who calls us to a specific vocation. Often, when someone senses that God is calling them to the priesthood, there is a negative reaction. This is normal, but do not think that it means you are not meant to be a priest. Very often, it is a positive indicator!

Q. What qualities are looked for in a priest?

A. A desire to serve others - love for the Church - deep faith - man of prayer - leadership ability - one who relates well with people - and one who is a builder of the community.

Q. What do I do if I think I am being called to the priesthood?

A. Speak to people you trust and get their feedback. You may also wish to speak to your pastor or any other priest you know. Most of all, speak with the vocations director of the Archdiocese, because he can answer many of your questions.

Q. Do I have to know for sure that I want to be a priest to enter the seminary?

A. No. There are two levels of seminary formation, college and theology. In both cases, seminary is not only a place of education and formation, it is also a place for continued prayer and discernment.

Q. What is the process for entering the seminary?

A. There is first an application process for the Archdiocese which includes a psychological and physical examination. Once the student is accepted by the Archdiocese, then there is another application process for the seminary.

Q. Where would I attend the seminary?

A. Currently, the Archdiocese of Hartford uses Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, Mount Saint Mary Seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland, North American College in Rome, Saint Joseph Seminary in Yonkers, New York, and Holy Apostles Seminary in Cromwell, Connecticut. Once a student has been accepted as a seminarian by the Archdiocese, then the student is assigned to the seminary by the Archbishop.

Q. What about Celibacy?

A. What about it? If you want to be a priest you can't get married. Remember, the priest must radically conform his life to the life of Christ who chose not to marry but gave himself totally to the Father. Celibacy is a huge commitment, no doubt about it. But it is a commitment that brings the help of the Holy Spirit. It is possible to live a full, rich, and happy life as a celibate, contrary to what people think. The important thing is to have a consistent life of prayer along with strong and healthy friendships with brother priests. Without prayer and friends, celibacy will become more of a cross than a gift.

Q. Can you tell me a little about the Archdiocese of Hartford?

A. The Archdiocese of Hartford encompasses the three counties of Hartford, Litchfield and New Haven. There are 216 parishes, and approximately 280 priests in active service to the needs of the 800,000 Catholics living here. The Archdiocese offers a wide range of ministry from inner city, suburban, and rural settings.

Q. As a diocesan priest what would my assignment be?

A. Diocesan priests are usually assigned to parishes by the Archbishop. In some cases the Archbishop assigns the priest to special ministry such as hospital chaplains, campus ministry, etc.

Q. How much does the seminary cost and who is responsible for the expense?

A. First, don't sweat this too much. The Archdiocese of Hartford will do everything it can to see that no one is turned down on the basis of financial need. For those entering at the college level the student and family are responsible for the expense. However, there are numerous financial aid packages through the seminary. If you already have a college degree and are entering at the level of theology the Archdiocese will cover all educational expenses. Health insurance is provided for those without coverage and seminarians receive an allowance each semester for personal needs. The bottom line is that financial issues should never stop anyone from contacting us.

For more information contact:
Office of Vocations 860-761-7456
Email: director@vocationshartford.org