Formation Programs

Discernment - Formation Program Overview

Our formation program concentrates on several areas key to Vincentian life: theological competence, preparation for ministry, spiritual/personal development, and commitment to life in community as a priest or brother. Let’s briefly describe what we expect in each area.

Theological competence occurs by full-time enrollment in a Masters of Divinity program at Immaculate Conception Seminary in Huntington, Long Island. Our men are enrolled with candidates from the dioceses of Brooklyn and Rockville Center in a four- year program to acquire the theological education necessary for ministry. They study scripture, morality, church history, doctrinal development, and pastoral ministry. They also take elective courses to deepen their knowledge base in a specific area of theology.

Preparation for ministry occurs in two direct ways. During the academic year, seminarians work one afternoon and evening a week in a ministerial setting: visiting the sick in a hospital, tutoring children in a school, counseling prisoners in a jail, or assisting in a Catholic social service agency. They come together bi-monthly to reflect on their ministerial experiences, and receive feedback from an on-site supervisor. In the summer, seminarians live and work in Vincentian ministries throughout the eastern province: city and rural parishes, migrant missions, and our mission in Panama. This way, seminarians experience different forms of community life and active ministry.

Spiritual and personal development refers to the seminarian’s responsibility to maintain a vibrant prayer life, engage in regular spiritual direction, and immerse himself in Vincentian spirituality. This involves assessment of the seminarian’s abilities as well as areas needed for growth and improvement. Yearly self-assessment and evaluation by the formation team is utilized to enhance a seminarian’s personal growth.

Commitment to community life is closely related to preparation for ministry and spiritual and personal growth. By sharing in communal prayer, work, and social events, the seminarian develops skills to foster a healthy community life.

 

Discernment - Opening of New Discernment House

Besides the joy of the taking of vows and an anticipated ordination, there is also joy in the Formation Program at the opening of a new Discernment House in West Hempstead.

Fr. Greg Semeniuk, C.M., is the Director of the Program and worked hard to get the house open. Three men will be living with Greg: Miguel Flores, Andres Garcia, and Juventino Mosso.

These three men had been part of a Discernment Program run out of Oyster Bay by Jesus, Art, and Abel. Now they are taking this next step in determining whether or not ministry as a Vincentian priest or brother is for them. They will be attending Nassau Community College as they work on English and GED programs. Greg is attached to the Oyster Bay House and will have the support of Jerry and Pat in developing the Program.

Let us keep all the men in Discernment and in Formation in our prayers. They are our future and a gift for the Church!

 

Discernment - Vincentian Experience 2002
Young people gathered from all over the country to experience the Vincentian Way in July 2002. 150 young people between the age of 18 and 35 gathered to learn about Vincent de Paul, and experience the joy of belonging to the Vincentian Family.
» view the gallery

 

Discernment - Vincentian Experience 2003
Connecting Young Leaders with the Vincentian Mission....This year The Vincent Experience 2, was held at St. John's University in New York and sponsored by the Youth Committee for the Eastern Province. It is for any young person between 18-30 who reflect leadership and Vincentian values.
» view the gallery

 

return to formation programs