A priest with wine and a communion wafer.
As you move toward the priesthood, many steps are required to choose the best Catholic seminary for you. An aspiring seminarian does not typically choose a Catholic seminary independently, but instead applies as a seminarian in the service of the archdiocese. If you do not currently attend Mass or do not have a local parish, the first step may be to find a suitable and supportive congregation and community. Deciding which seminary program will depend on factors such as location, program credentials, and spiritual focus.
A priest being ordained.
Typically, you first need to apply to be a seminarian for the archdiocese. Once a student is accepted into the archdiocese as a seminarian, it is possible to enroll in a specific seminary. Most archdioceses work with several regional seminaries, and many maintain a regular publication or website where information on local and regional seminaries can be found. Educational institutions, seminaries, and the archdiocese also maintain online databases that provide contact information and websites for seminaries across the country.
A Catholic nun.
After speaking with your priest or local vocation director, it may be helpful to visit your diocese for additional help, support and information. Each diocese has a vocations office where questions can be asked and answered. Guidance will be provided by the archdiocesan vocational office throughout the seminary application process. The entire process will be facilitated by the archdiocesan vocation director. Often your local priest or an affiliated priest will also play an important role in the application process.
a bible
Once accepted as a seminarian, there will be a discussion with the Archdiocesan Vocations Director about the various options. Diocesan seminarians work with their vocation director to select the best Catholic seminary in that particular region. This process is a complex and multifaceted discussion that may include an examination of your beliefs, devotion, ministerial and spiritual aspirations, past experiences, and educational background. Eventually, the archbishop will assign him the best Catholic seminary for his personal situation.
Many national and international Catholic organizations host databases that profile accredited Catholic seminaries and provide information on how to enter the priesthood. The Catholic Religious Vocations Network produces an annual publication entitled Vision, in conjunction with the National Conference on Religious Vocations. Internationally, some abbeys or monasteries invite prospective seminarians to visit their website to learn about and experience their way of life and devotion. Generally, the best and most standard way to find the best Catholic seminary is to work closely with your priest and with the vocations departments of the parish and diocese.