“The human personality of the priest is to be a bridge and not an obstacle for others in their meeting with Jesus Christ the Redeemer of the human race. As the humanity of the Word made flesh was the instrumentum salutis, so the humanity of the priest is instrumental in mediating the redemptive gifts of Christ to people today.”
(Program of Priestly Formation, 75)
Overview
Solid human formation is essential in the life of each person, and especially important in a priest. Since grace builds upon nature, the human formation program is designed to help a man develop the human virtues and characteristics which will enable him to cheerfully embrace a life of chaste celibacy, simplicity of life, and obedience.
Benchmarks of Human Formation
The following are benchmarks for which a seminarian should strive to provide concrete evidence:
Initial Engagement Stage
(First 1-2 Years at BWS)
Goal: Each Bishop White seminarian will demonstrate that he lives a balanced life of prayer, study, and fraternity, and apostolic charity, with an appropriate docility to formation.
Discipleship State
(Final 2-3 years at BWS)
Goal: Each graduate of Bishop White Seminary will demonstrate that he understands his vocation, has acquired the freedom to embrace it, and, if he is called to the Holy Priesthood, is prepared to begin proximate preparation for Holy Orders.