The Vatican’s Congregation for the Clergy has released new norms on the formation of seminarians for the priesthood. They are binding and affect the entire Church in the Latin Rite, with dioceses around the world adapting them to their own situations. They are meant to reflect an updated vision of priestly formation, in light of societal shifts and in light of our Holy Father Pope Francis’ vision of priesthood.

What has been reported in the media concerning this document was, of course, any sensational aspects, which are in fact, not so sensational at all. It reaffirms the Church’s belief that men with deep-seated same-sex attraction are not suitable candidates. It goes on to state: “the Church, while profoundly respecting the persons in question, cannot admit to the seminary or to Holy Orders those who practice homosexuality, present deep-seated homosexual tendencies or support the so-called ‘gay culture.’” It goes on: “in a situation that gravely hinders them from relating correctly to men and women… one must in no way overlook the negative consequences that can derive from the ordination of persons with deep-seated homosexual tendencies.” This is a reiteration of what was already being followed in priestly formation.

The document also follows closely Pope Francis’ experience of priesthood by articulating his concerns about the necessity of the priest to avoid “temptations tied to money, to the authoritarian exercise of power, to rigid legalism and to vainglory.”

Also fascinating is the understanding of the formation of the priest. The document divides the formation of the seminarian into four unique stages: first, a year in which he would spend in prayer, in learning about Scripture, the Catechism, the Liturgy and Spirituality. This would take place before the seminarian would begin philosophy studies. This is much needed today, as applicants for the seminary are coming from very different backgrounds. It then describes a discipleship stage, lasting two years, in which a seminarian would learn philosophy. Next would be four years of theology study. Finally, there would be a pastoral year, in which a seminarian, as a deacon, would serve in a parish full-time.

The document speaks about many other things, including the formation of vocations from other countries, and the promotion of priestly vocations among high school students.

All Catholics interested in the promotion of priestly vocations (and that should be all of us) should take the time to read the document, not only what is being reported in the press. It is one of Pope Francis’ major works and is very important to the entire People of God, the Church.