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Priestly Formation

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"I think I know why you’re here, Brendan. You’re here to ask about the priesthood.” When my pastor said those words to me during confession, it sparked something in me, and I began praying and asking God if this was something He had in mind for me. Every time the thought came to me, I felt a peaceful joy, and I knew I had to explore that further. This is what led me to St. Charles Borromeo Seminary. Going into the seminary is not something one casually decides. It requires genuine commitment. That is what makes the seminary special – the daily dedication of individuals striving to grow as better Christians and pursue their calling.

I believe one of the most valuable aspects of the seminary is that we have our personal prayer time with God, but it’s also done alongside and with others who are on a similar path. When thinking about the Church’s future, I can’t think of a better place to invest resources and treasure than St. Charles Borromeo Seminary."

– Rev. Mr. Brendan Zehner

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“Before entering the seminary, I contemplated where I would find the most happiness in my life. This is what led me to the priesthood. I consulted with my pastor, who offered immense support and guidance. He took me to visit the seminary, which was intriguing but also left me feeling apprehensive. What if I made a mistake? What if it wasn’t the right path for me? I prayed fervently, seeking clarity. During my prayer, I felt a strong urging to trust in Christ and follow His lead. I placed my trust in Him and enrolled in the seminary after high school. I
am incredibly content with the journey God has guided me on, and I look forward to my ordination.

I am deeply grateful to the seminary for everything it has given me and for how it has helped me grow as an individual, as a person, and as a child of God. By supporting the Seminary
Appeal, you are supporting God’s mission in the world, which is to continue proclaiming Christ the Lord and bringing others to Him.”

– Rev. Mr. Gregory Miller

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“Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary is a vital place for Catholics, not only here in Philadelphia but from around the world. I came to the United States in 2018 from Nigeria. As someone who has experienced another seminary before, I can confidently say that the support we receive here at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary is tremendous. Back home – in Nigeria,
I didn’t have such opportunities. It is only possible due to the support of the generous individuals who continue to support St. Charles Borromeo Seminary Appeal. Through your support, the seminary can remain vibrant.

Without priests, we cannot have the Eucharist, as it is the priest who consecrates the bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ. The priesthood is a command given by Christ Himself, and it is through priests that the Catholic Church has remained strong.”

– Rev. Mr. Bernard Ekeagwu

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“Working with such wonderful, competent, and faith-filled priests at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary has been an experience that has greatly contributed to my spiritual growth. They have challenged me to become a better Christian, a better Catholic, and a better professor and teacher. Witnessing their interaction with the students and seeing the students develop into strong leaders, good Catholic men who are faithful and willing to make deep and sacrificial commitments to God and the Church is truly amazing. I believe that what happens at the seminary uplifts and benefits the entire Archdiocese. The seminary could be seen as the mother of the Archdiocese; it is here where the young men come to be nurtured and grow into strong individuals.

To support the seminarians by donating to the Seminary Appeal is an act of love, not only for us but also for our children and future generations. Investing in the seminary ensures that we have competent and virtuous priests, which is essential for a healthy Church and society.”

– Kelly Anderson, S.S.L., Ph.D., Associate Professor
of Biblical Studies for the Major Seminary

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