Academics

The young man who enters St. Joseph Seminary does so because he has a desire to respond to the love of God as experienced in his life. Specifically, this response may lead an individual to the ordained priesthood. The academic curricula offered at the seminary reflect this possibility. Thus, St. Joseph offers a liberal arts education designed to encourage intellectual curiosity, promote critical thought, foster disciplined habits of study and teach students to communicate with others in a clear and articulate way (Program for Priestly Formation, 162, http://www.usccb.org/publishing/vocation.htm and which came from Vatican II's Optatam Totius (Decree on Priestly Training) http://www.christusrex.org/www1/CDHN/v17.html (For background and more information, see http://www.christusrex.org/www1/CDHN/v1.html )

Those who enter studies for the priesthood and receive a liberal arts education are introduced to a "wide range of human learning " (PPF, 163) and are provided "with an understanding of the cultural roots of their faith" (PPF, 164).

In addition, Catholic education for the priesthood has traditionally placed a strong emphasis on a sound grasp of philosophy (PPF, 167). For this reason, all students who attend St. Joseph Seminary must major in Philosophy. This philosophical training allows students to see the link between the great philosophical questions of man and the mysteries of salvation that are studied in theology (cf. Pastores Dabo Vobis, 52 http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_jp -ii_exh_25031992_pastores-dabo-vobis_en.html ). The study of philosophy also "aids students in developing their own powers of clear critical thought and analysis" ( PPF, 168). It is the hope of St. Joseph Seminary that all students take responsibility for their intellectual formation, gain an appreciation for the various fields of study in the arts and sciences and deepen their respect for the numerous cultures we encounter in our world.