Human - Spiritual - Pastoral
There is a reciprocal relationship between spiritual and intellectual formation. The intellectual life nourishes the spiritual life, but the spiritual also opens vistas of understanding-credo ut intelligam. Intellectual formation is integral to what it means to be human. '…[I]ntellectual formation is a fundamental demand of man's intelligence by which he 'participates in the light of God's mind' and seeks to acquire a wisdom which in turn opens to and is directed towards knowing and adhering to God.' (Pastores Dabo Vobis, 51)
The basic principle of intellectual formation for priesthood candidates is noted in Pastores Dabo Vobis, 51: 'For the salvation of their brothers and sisters, they should seek an ever deeper knowledge of the divine mysteries.' Disciples are learners. The first task of intellectual formation is to acquire a personal knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ who is the fullness and completion of God's revelation and the one Teacher. This saving knowledge is acquired not only once, but it is continuously appropriated and deepened, so that it becomes more and more part of us. Seminary intellectual formation assumes and prolongs the catechesis and mystagogia that is to be part of every Christian's journey of faith. At the same time, this knowledge is not simply for personal possession but is destined to be shared in the community of faith. And that is why it is 'for the salvation of their brothers and sisters.' Intellectual formation has an apostolic and missionary purpose and finality.
In the seminary program, intellectual formation culminates in a deepened understanding of the mysteries of faith that is pastorally oriented toward effective priestly ministry. This understanding, however, requires previous intellectual formation and academic integrity as foundational. The overall goal of every stage of seminary formation is to prepare a candidate who is widely knowledgeable of the human condition, deeply engaged in a process of understanding divine revelation, and adequately skilled in communicating his knowledge to as many people as possible.
Copyright USCCB Program of Priestly Formation (5th Edition-6th Working Draft)
