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Human Formation, the foundation of our seminary program, encourages a man's physical and psychological health and that relational maturity necessary for celibate, priestly ministry. In this way, it forms a man who is "balanced, strong and free, capable of bearing the weight of pastoral responsibilities."
Spiritual Formation leads each man through a deeper conversion of heart to embrace Jesus Christ in friendship, to rely upon Him, and to follow Him in all things. This formation begins with a Spirituality Year, which initiates the seminarian into a purifying self-knowledge, diocesan spirituality, and fraternal communion. His subsequent development, guided by spiritual direction, leads him to a more profound love for Christ and His People. This growth in charity is rooted in lectio divina and personal prayer, Mass and Liturgy of the Hours, Eucharistic adoration, regular confession, and filial devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Intellectual Formation cultivates the mind to seek an ever deeper knowledge of the divine mysteries. Progressing through an integrated and sequenced curriculum, the seminarian acquires the languages necessary for his work, appropriates the philosophical and theological patrimony of the Church, and applies her teachings to contemporary culture. Through study, the future priest develops an intelligence of the heart, by which he assents to the Word of God, grows in his spiritual life, and prepares himself for pastoral ministry.
Pastoral Formation integrates within the seminarian the study of pastoral theology with actual liturgical and apostolic experience. This integration occurs through theological reflection and inspires the Church's future priest to participate more deeply in the pastoral charity of Jesus Christ the Good Shepherd.
Under the direction of the Archbishop of Denver, the seminary community, by its prayer, preaching, teaching, example, and personal concern, helps each seminarian to become a fully human person with an orthodox faith, ready to be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ.