www.vocation.com - What can I do to insure that I receive a sound formati

	Greg asks: Dear Father Anthony, As I continue to discern my calling to the priesthood, I am concerned about the quality of my formation and training in the seminary. As an informed Catholic, I am aware of the challenges our Church faces, and although the situation in American seminaries has improved overall, the Vatican continues to be deeply concerned about this issue. Ultimately, it will be my own receptiveness to the power of Gods grace and the assistance of the Holy Spirit that will determine the character of my priesthood - if the Church should accept me. I do wonder what I can do to insure that I receive a sound formation that will prepare me for the challenges I may face as a priest.
	Dear Greg, Here are a few quick ideas: I think it is very important to have a stable spiritual guide and mentor, a priest you look up to and trust to direct you spiritually, and one (or maybe the same one, if he is qualified) to direct you academically. Pick priests that are going to ask a lot of you and push you. Be sure to be frank in opening your concerns to your vocation director and your bishop, getting their advice as regards this. Try to see if during vacation times from the seminary you can engage in some organized mission or youth work, or help out a good priest in his parish work. God bless,


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