FAQs

Q. I like girls.

A.  This is normal. As mature men one needs to know how to direct his attractions—to love and respect women properly.  God’s grace and the virtue of chastity assist here. The priest is committed to Christ’s Bride, the Church.

 

Q. I’m not “very holy”; can I still be a priest?

A.  Yes. Growing in holiness (being more Christ-like) is a life long journey. Strive to be a good, practicing Catholic. You might be surprised how Christ-like you can be.

 

Q. I am a widower and I would like to be a priest.

A.  If your children have reached the age of 18 and are provided for, then it is possible.

 

Q. How old is too old?

A.  The Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston is currently not accepting seminary candidates over the age of 50.

 

 

Q. I’m concerned about how my friends or family will react.

A.  A valid concern. Often those who know us best aren’t greatly surprised. If you are not ready to tell them now, talk with a priest, seminarian, or religious brother or sister. As you grow stronger in your thinking and convictions, you can share them with others. Those who truly love you will want the best for you.

 

Q. What vows do priests take?

A.  Diocesan priests do not take vows but make promises: to pray the Liturgy of the Hours, to live a celibate life, and to be obedient to the bishop and his successors. Priests in religious orders make vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.

 

Q. I am not a “brain”; can I still be a priest?

A.  Yes, one need not be a rocket scientist. However, you should be of average or above average intelligence so that you can do the course work necessary to serve God’s people well.

 

Q. Is seminary life difficult?

A.  Not any more so than regular college or graduate school. But, it is different. Seminarians have the added responsibility to discern God’s will and develop as men of prayer and proclaimers of the Gospel. While he has both male and female friends, he does not date because he is preparing to life a celibate life.

 

Q. Some in the media portray priests as unhappy; is that true?

A.  There are some priests who are not happy. On the other hand, most priests are happy and fulfilled in their work and lives. It is a rewarding life—now and in the life to come.

 

Q. Where will I be assigned after I am ordained?

A.  Within the state of West Virginia, the Diocese’s boundaries are contiguous with the State’s.

 

Q. I’m not Catholic and feel called to be a priest; is that possible?

A.  Yes. First, you must become a Catholic. Check with the local Catholic Church and ask about the R. C. I. A. (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults). If after becoming a Catholic you are still interested, make it known to your pastor and/or the Vocations Director. Most Dioceses want “new Catholics” to wait 2-3 years before beginning the application process.

 

Q. Is the life of a priest all sacrifice and hardship?

A.  No. However, sacrifice is part of the life of a priest. Enduring hardships on behalf of those we love can be a joy, even if frustrating at times.

 

Q. I’m an only child and my parents want grandkids?

A.  This is not unheard of. The answer is what is Jesus asking of you? As one person quipped, Mary and Joseph didn’t get grandchildren from Jesus either.

 

Q. My parents want me to have a good job so that I can take care of them in their old age.

A.  What, per se, is a good job? Is it defined by money, prestige, or power? Being a priest is a very “good job”. Concerning taking care of elderly parents, even if you cannot be with them, you should be able to help in seeing to their care with the help of siblings, if you have them, and with their retirement benefits, etc.