THE STUDY OF CONSECRATED LIFE IN DIOCESAN SEMINARIES AND INSTITUTES FOR THEOLOGICAL FORMATION: THE VALUE, URGENT NEED AND IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

The Theology of Consecrated Life should be made part and parcel of the Diocesan Seminaries’ and Institutes for Theological Formation’s Academic Curriculum to help eliminate the stark ignorance manifested by many diocesan priests, especially the young ones, of the nature, place and functions of Consecrated persons in the Church.  Such ignorance is evident in the misguided spiritual direction given to young consecrated persons by such priests, lack of appreciation and respect for consecrated persons, and poor collaboration between such priests and the consecrated persons ministering in their parishes.  This poor collaboration and its consequent effects have been a source of counter witnessing to the Gospel and grave scandal to the faithful. Their formation should therefore be geared towards holistic personality formation to enable them appreciate who they are, thereby modelling their lives and ministry on that of the person of Christ Who they represent – they act “in persona Christiâ€. They need an in- depth understanding of the composition of the Body of Christ which is the Church, so as to minister adequately to each part.  The Church which is hierarchical is composed of various members, just as the human body, each with its specific function for the orderly functioning of the whole Body.   If they understand the Church as “mystery†and “communion†and behave accordingly, there will be more effective ministry in the Church, all the members playing their respective roles to the best of their abilities, after the example of the early Christian Community. When candidates to the priesthood understand better the nature, place and function of consecrated persons in the Church, they will collaborate with the Bishops in fostering and promoting consecrated life in the Church, as well as teach the lay faithful to do the same.