Dear David,

Thanks for your words about the site, its good to know it helps.

As regards the interviews, I think the best preparation is to have a good look inside yourself to see how God has been leading you, to assess your motivations, your prayer-life, your life of grace, your weaknesses and your strengths your desire to serve, your love for the Church, you willingness to serve. Then be prepared to speak honestly in the interview about all these things and your background as the interviewer brings them up. Remember, you are looking for Gods will, and the director will only be able to help you discover it if you are completely open with him.

You will probably also do some psychological tests and have interviews with a psychologist. Again, honesty.

As regards the way to address your bishop, it depends on the country you are from. Here in the States we usually call say Bishop" where you would say Father" when speaking to a priest. In Australia they often use " M' Lord" for Bishops and Your Grace" to address Archbishops. Ask a priest-friend what is the normal local form of address. Personally, I like to kiss the bishops ring when I meet him and say good-bye unless it is a very informal occasion, like a cook-out.