Entering the priesthood is not something you try on for size; it is a serious undertaking that’s not solely a career option; but a decision that will change every aspect of your life.

Some people have a calling to make this commitment, others do so in respect of their deep faith; there are different reasons, but it is a pledge that must be made with a high level of consideration. A strong faith and desire to assist others is fundamental. Being a priest means being there for your flock from the cradle to the grave and helping during the most difficult times imaginable. A priest is often called on for explanations and answers in times of tragedy so a resolute strength of character is imperative.

Advantages include an enduring sense of purpose and having such an enormous effect on so many is a fulfilling achievement. Helping people on a daily basis, from preaching a sermon to visiting with them, is hugely rewarding and satisfying as you are literally changing people’s lives for the better.

One important thing to mention is that the Catholic Church is only accepting men as priests, while the Church of Ireland now welcomes both males and females.

Education
Candidates for the priesthood aren’t required to count their CAO points, although they do need a certain level of academic ability. If you decide to apply, you must send character references from your local priest and your school principal or another responsible referee – along with application material as required – directly to the institution you are considering.

For Catholic vocations, the national seminary is at St. Patrick’s College, Maynooth.  Its Pontifical University has faculties of Theology, Philosophy and Canon Law and welcomes students from all over the world.

Most students then pursue a three-year degree in a subject such as Philosophy at NUI Maynooth, before going on to study Theology for four years at the Pontifical University. However, the preparation involves more than just the academic subjects – students are also given practical pastoral training and assistance to deepen their relationship with God.

The Church of Ireland Theological College in Dublin works in conjunction with Trinity College. Students live in the Theological College and receive training both there and at Trinity, studying towards a degree in Theology (ordinary level), with the option of a fourth year of study to obtain an honours degree. The course leading to ordination covers academic theology and training in professional and pastoral skills, and assessment is by examination, projects and fieldwork.

Options after Qualification

The priesthood is one area where you are guaranteed a job after graduation, while job security is stable for qualified priests.

Many priests develop a deep interest in the history and scholarship of their religions, and they often gain postgraduate qualifications in theology and related subjects.

The Work
Priests and ministers of all denominations carry out similar tasks and responsibilities. They serve their religious community by presiding over religious ceremonies such as masses, weddings, christenings and funerals. They also offer spiritual guidance and comfort to their local community in times of distress, and organise practical support, such as providing material comforts to those in need. Priests may also be involved in education and have a role in the running of local schools, to which they may pay regular visits.

There is also a certain amount of administration work involved in running a busy parish, so priests may have to catch up on correspondence, produce parish newsletters and organise the parish accounts.

As well as within parishes, priests can also work as chaplains in hospitals, prisons, the defence forces, education and social care. Others undertake missionary work abroad.

Personal Qualities & Work Environment
A strong faith and sense of vocation are absolute. The role can call for an unwavering spirit, especially in the face of great tragedy where people can find themselves lost and angry and in need of guidance.

Confidence and communicative skills are helpful in everyday life, and an ability to interact with differing age groups would also be beneficial. 

You could say that a priest’s work environment is everywhere. While they spend the majority of their time in their local church, religious professionals are also required to spread the word of God wherever it is needed.

The Money
Nobody gets rich (in a monetary sense) by being a priest, but you are provided for by the parishioners, with a house and car supplied for your use. The priesthood is not a vocation to choose if money and material wealth is important to you.

Jargon
Vocation: A calling to undertake a certain kind of work, especially a religious career
Faith: The belief that does not rest on logical proof or material evidence; a trusting acceptance of God’s will
Ecumenical: Concerned with establishing or promoting unity among churches or religions

Job Titles
Priest
Rector
Vicar
Bishop
Archbishop
Cardinal
Pope

Further Resources
Conference of Diocesan Vocations Directors
Ard Easmuinn,
Dundalk
Co. Louth.
Phone: 042 93 34259
Web: www.vocations.ie
E-Mail: info@vocations.ie

Pontifical University
St. Patrick's College
Maynooth
Co. Kildare
Tel: 01 708 4772
Web: www.maynoothcollege.ie
Email: mary.tansey@may.ie

The Church of Ireland Theological College
Braemor Park
Dublin 14
Phone: 01 492 3506
Web: www.citc.ie
Email: admin@citc.ie

The Jesuits in Ireland
36 Lower Leeson Street
Dublin 2
Tel: 01 676 8408
Web: www.jesuit.ie
Email: jcc@jesuit.ie