Eastern Catholic bishops talk unified seminary system

St. Louis - (St. Basil College Seminary Information Department) - On April 2-3, 2008 Eastern Catholic Bishops in the United States of America met at the Pastoral Center of Our Lady of Lebanon Eparchy in Saint Louis, MO, for their annual conference. Over 17 bishops gathered to discuss important issues facing the Eastern Catholic Churches in North America. Among others a topic of common seminary system to all ecclesiastical jurisdictions was discussed. An opinion I have heartily voiced here and with the hierarchy when I could. Factionalism intended or as a result of the natural division of the churches weakens what could otherwise pool talent and resources in furtherance of vocations. Most Rev. Nicholas Samra of the Melkite Church presented an overview of the formation and education system among the Eastern Catholic Churches in North America. “We have four seminaries in the USA. But in reality only two: St. Basil College Seminary and Ss. Cyril and Methodius Seminary are able to confirm academic degrees. Others are only houses of formation. It is a time to think about a common seminary system in all the Eastern Catholic jurisdictions” said Bishop Samra. Now they just have to let me in. :)

Following Bishop Samra’s address, Father Bohdan J. Danylo presented St. Basil College Seminar as a place for education and formation of college level seminarians. “St. Basil always has been a center of formation and education. It is a place for young men to discern and respond to the God’s calling. Come and see – with these words Jesus Christ called first apostles and disciples. We are extending the same invitation to young men feeling Christ’s calling to the Holy Priesthood. Come and see St. Basil College Seminary” said father Danylo. For more information about St. Basil College Seminary please visit us at www.stbasilcollegesem.net.