JORAS - Nigerian Journal of Religion and Society

Seminary formation as we have it today in the Catholic Church has its roots in Jesus and his college of Apostles. This article using the descriptive and analytical methods discusses the historiography of seminary formation from the first century to Trent. It argues that in the early centuries of Christianity, the Church had difficulties expanding because of clashes between the throne and the altar, as a result, seminary formation was not given sufficient attention, although the challenges priests had with their members were considerably minimal. But as the Church's history unfolded, proper Seminary formation began to be held in esteem. This was heightened by some priests who became boisterous and exotic with dispositions contrary to the gospel they professed. And so, there arose the need for productive Seminary formation of future priests who will reflect the essence of the gospel. The process began with the advent of Cathedral schools and Universities which laid the grounds on which proper formation of priests in academic and spiritual matters was possible, albeit with its difficulties. Nevertheless, the Council of Trent (1545-1563) was a watershed in the history of constructive seminary formation. It was at its 23rd session that the issue of seminary formation was extensively discussed, and promulgation was made on the urgency of erecting institutions to keep together young men preparing for the priesthood. The mode of admission and the sequence of training it recommended are still being periodically updated to meet the challenges of the time; culminating in the demands of the new Ratio Fundamentalis. These efforts indicate how seriously the Church has taken formation of future priests to effectively fit those who should be raised to Holy Orders.

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