Seminary and Graduate School of Theology - Mundelein Seminary

Class formation programs are designed
to meet special needs and to serve common
concerns that arise as seminarians
move toward priesthood. They provide
opportunities for support and encouragement
and for mutual sharing. Each class
has a unique program which engages on
a weekly basis throughout the school
year.
In Pre-Theology I, the seminarian is
introduced to the seminary and its expectations
and he is helped to discern further
his call to the priesthood.
In Pre-Theology II, the formation is designed
as a bridge between the introductory
pre-theology program and the theology
I-IV programs. The program incorporates
all four pillars of formation and
stresses balance and integration. Theological
reflection is used frequently
throughout the year to assist with this
process.
In First Theology, men learn methods
of prayer and the basics needed to live a
celibate life. Human formation is a particular
focus.
In Second Theology, the focus is on
lived discipleship. The document
“Pastores Dabo Vobis” guides this year’s
program.
In Third Theology, formation is centered
on faith sharing and pilgrimage. During
their third year, the men have the option
to spend the winter quarter on pilgrimage.
There are also presentations and a
preaching practicum.
In Fourth Theology, the program addresses
transition into priestly ministry
and public leadership in the Church.
The pastoral intensive in the spring quarter
of second year takes place in a man’s
own diocese. During this experience,
many dioceses and individual priest supervisors
take great care to introduce the
men to the various aspects of diocesan
life and its institutions.
10. To help the seminarian develop responsible
sense of STEWARDSHIP for the spiritual and
temporal goods of the Church.
As part of his formation covenant, the seminarian
is asked to set goals to help him to
be accountable for his own finances. This
basic personal responsibility is the foundation
for his eventual care of parish resources.
Men are encouraged to be generous in their
charitable giving. There are several opportunities
throughout the year for a man to share
his financial resources.
The formation covenant lists as a “basic
seminary expectation” for all:”To live a lifestyle
that incorporates and reflects Gospel
values.” A Gospel lifestyle is understood to
include the value of simplicity of life.
-Academics: Parish Leadership and Administration
- offered to men in their fourth year of
theology
9. To help the seminarian to develop a strong
sense of KNOWLEDGE OF AND LOYALTY TO
the local Church.
Each seminarian is encouraged to learn
about the history of his diocese, to grow
in a greater appreciation for the mission
of the Church in his diocese, and to know
the diocesan policies, agencies and significant
personnel who serve the mission.
During their years in the seminary, the
men are encouraged to meet often and
regularly with their diocesan brothers.
Each Thursday evening, diocesan brothers
meet for evening prayer. They also
get together informally on other occasions
as well.
46