The journey to becoming a Catholic priest requires discernment, dedication, and a deep commitment to serving the Church and its community. The process involves several steps to help you discern your suitability for the priesthood and provide you with the necessary formation and training.
Discerning a Call to the Priesthood
We invite you to prayerfully consider whether the priesthood is a calling for you. We encourage you to seek guidance from your parish priest or a spiritual director, to attend discernment retreats and events, and to engage in discussions with priests and other members of the Church community.
The Diocesan Director of Priestly Vocations, Fr Galbert Albino, is your first point of contact. Fr Galbert is available to listen, offer guidance and talk you through the Parramatta’s four-step admissions process:
- Inquiry
- Discernment
- Aspirancy
- Recommendation and Acceptance
The Journey Towards Priesthood
The journey to becoming a Catholic priest is a lifelong commitment to spiritual growth, service, and dedication to the Church. It requires a deep love for God, a genuine desire to serve others, and a willingness to embrace the challenges and joys of the priestly vocation.
If you choose to formally apply to become a priest and you enter a period of formation and seminary study, you will spend time living in the community alongside other aspiring seminarians at the Holy Spirit Seminary.
The priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus. When you see a priest, think of our Lord Jesus Christ.
St. John Vianney
The Holy Spirit Seminary
The Holy Spirit Seminary is a small, vibrant and welcoming community where men from diverse backgrounds, who have been accepted by the Bishop of Parramatta for future priesthood in this Diocese, come together to to prepare for the priesthood. The seminary fosters a spirit of brotherhood and respect for individual differences. Seminarians are encouraged to share their unique perspectives and experiences, enriching the overall learning environment.
Seminarians live in a shared community residence on the seminary grounds. They enjoy meals together, engage in shared activities, and provide mutual support.
The seminary provides a comprehensive academic program that equips seminarians with a thorough understanding of Catholic theology, scripture, and pastoral ministry.
Spiritual formation is an integral part of the seminary experience. Seminarians are encouraged to develop their prayer lives, engage in regular spiritual direction, and participate in liturgical celebrations.
Seminarians also actively engage in pastoral experiences alongside experienced priests and mentors. They gain hands-on experience in various aspects of pastoral ministry, including parish visits, hospital chaplaincy, youth ministry, and community outreach. These experiences provide seminarians with the opportunity to apply their theological knowledge in real-world settings and develop their pastoral skills.