Programs Related to Discerning

Exploring Priesthood Weekend

The retreat to help men discern God’s call to the diocesan priesthood. Throughout a weekend of prayer, discussions, presentations of diocesan priesthood and group interaction, men begin to better understand God’s movement in their life. These retreats are hosted by our major Seminary, Mundelein Seminary, located about 40 miles north of downtown Chicago. 

During the Exploring Priesthood Weekend, men participate in presentations on the steps for discerning; values of priesthood; seminary life, academics, spiritual formation and pastoral ministry; and seminarians will share their vocation stories. There are several worship opportunities, and men are encouraged to ask questions, interact, pray in the chapels, walk the grounds, and/or use the recreational facilities. By fully engaging in the opportunities provided on the retreat, men are more able to understand where God is leading them.

For more information or to register for an upcoming Exploring Priesthoood Weekend, please visit here.

INSEARCH

INSEARCH is a two-phase, six-month program (October through April) for post-college men with a serious interest in diocesan priesthood. Meetings are held every week in the evenings at the Quigley Pastoral Center in downtown Chicago, which provides men with the opportunity to continually engage the question about priesthood. In addition, a small fraternity develops among the men who participate in INSEARCH, sharing a common bond in the search to gain clarity around the question of priesthood.

The program helps men gain clarity in their vocation by discussing discernment and the call of discipleship and priesthood. Priests tell their stories and offer presentations on spirituality and the life of a priest in Chicago. There are weekly prayer times and scripture reflections, and a weekend retreat provides participants time and space to explore the movement of God in their lives. INSEARCH encourages spiritual direction for the participant, to help him on his spiritual journey.

Samuel Group: Discernment for young adults

Do you ever wonder how to make a good decision according to God’s will? Join us for a discernment group specifically geared toward young adults (ages 19–35). Here you will discuss all kinds of discernment—if you are called to consecrated life, married life or single life, to a certain career 0r city, and more. The goal of this group is to help you, and in some cases your significant other, know yourself, Jesus and your role within the Church.

These discernment groups will take place monthly over the course of seven months. At each session, you will listen to talks, have time for small group sharing, and have the opportunity for Mass, Confession and Adoration. Participants will also have the opportunity to meet individually with a spiritual director while doing this course.

For more information, click here.

Below is information about Archdiocese of Chicago’s programs for men who are discerning priesthood. For more information about any of the programs above, contact:

Fr. Timothy Monahan
Vocation Director
847.531.0148
[email protected]

If you will be studying for a diocese other than Chicago, please contact your diocesan vocation director.