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From our Pastoral Intern Eben MacDonald
This week I want to write about the third pillar of seminary formation:
intellectual formation. The joke in the seminary is that intellectual
formation is the big pillar supported by three toothpicks! Academics
does consume a lot of our time and energy but it is necessary in order
for us to become well-formed and informed priests. The goal of
intellectual formation in the seminary is not just to fill our heads
with knowledge; it’s not just about the mind, it’s about conversion of
heart. I like Saint Anselm’s definition of theology: “Faith seeking
understanding.” It isn’t just about intellectual assent to theological
doctrine. It’s about growing into deeper relationship with Jesus. For
seminarians, academic study begins from the standpoint of faith. The
academic study helps to deepen that faith and bring us to a fuller and
deeper understanding of the truths of the faith so that we can pass on
that faith to others as priests.
My first two years of graduate studies were full of many theological
courses teaching us a lot of theory. The course work was difficult and
challenging, but ultimately rewarding, especially as I have been able to
put into practice much of what I had studied during the internship. When
I return to the seminary this fall, the courses will become more
practical in nature, teaching us how to celebrate the sacraments, more
training in preaching, and study of marriage law, all aimed at preparing
us to be professional pastoral ministers.
I am currently studying for the Master of Divinity Degree or MDiv, which
is the professional degree required for ordination. I have also recently
been accepted into the Master of Arts program in spiritual theology. I
will pursue the M.A. concurrently with the MDiv and hopefully will
complete all of my academic coursework in Spring 2012 in time for
ordination. Please continue to pray for me and my fellow seminarians
that God will continue to give us the strength to persevere in our
studies! |
