For Parents
When a young man decides to enter the seminary, he isn’t the only person affected by that decision. His family goes through the process with him, and it can be hard for some parents. You may feel like you are “losing a son” to the Church when he enters the priesthood, but this is a rich and rewarding process. Your son is beginning to learn what God made him to be — whether that means being a priest or not. Knowing that he may never get married or have children can be difficult for parents to deal with, but remember that he is becoming Father to a whole congregation. Some families even find their relationships strengthened by faith.
If your son is entering the seminary or wants to do so and you find yourself having a hard time agreeing, remember that you are not alone. There are groups in many communities that bring parents of seminarians together to share their experiences and help each other come to terms with the situation. Countless other families have had sons enter the priesthood, and they would be happy to help you as you make that same step.
For more information or to find a group near you, please contact:
Coordinator Office of Priestly Vocations
Catholic Diocese of Peoria
419 NE Madison Ave.
Peoria, IL 61603
(309) 671-1550
Email