Spiritual Dimension
The goal of the Spiritual Formation Program in the Theology Division is to help the seminarian live in intimate and unceasing union with God the Father through his Son, Jesus Christ, in the Holy Spirit. As outlined in the Program for Priestly Formation, St. Charles Borromeo Seminary assists the seminarian at acquiring a listening and learning heart as a disciple of Jesus Christ in communion with the Church.
Besides the daily celebration of the Eucharist and the Liturgy of the Hours, the Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered to the seminarian prior to the weekday Masses and upon request. It is encouraged that each seminarian meets with his individual spiritual director once every three weeks.
Three spiritual conferences are offered to each of the 4 classes of Theology per semester. Topics will range from developing a disciplined life of prayer culminating in a daily Holy Hour, Ignatian Discernment, Devotion to Mary, Living the Beatitudes and Evangelical Counsels, Celibacy as Gift and issues in transitioning from the seminary to active ministry in the priesthood.
For each of the four years, a retreat is offered to the seminarians with the goal of leading from past experiences of a preached and guided retreats to a directed retreat experience. The annual celebration of 40 hours continues to be grace-filled for the whole seminary community in focusing on the presence of Christ present in the Eucharist and in the invitation to find rest in His Sacred Heart.
