Seminarians deal with the same difficulties and setbacks in life as anyone: they have car problems, they struggle with moral choices, they have to work hard at study and prayer, they have trouble with family members. They also have some difficulties which are particular to their status as seminarians: they don't have regular paid jobs, and their vocational discernment isn't always well accepted by family and friends.

Here are some of the best ways that you can give real support to your seminarians:

Praying for seminarians may be the most obvious means of support, and is definitely the most important. Praying for all of our seminarians is great, but if you don't already have one (or a few) specific seminarians to pray for, there is a great opportunity to get connected to one or more through our Adopt a Priest/Seminarian program!

To sign up or get more information, visit http://kckvocations.com/support/support-programs/adopt-a-priestseminarian.

Remember that seminarians are preparing to bring Jesus to the world for the rest of their lives – and the devil will do whatever he can to prevent a man from following through with that goal! Our seminarians need as much support through prayer as we can give them. Please remember them daily in your prayers!

Personal Contact and Encouragement

It may be difficult to relate to seminarians if it seems like they live in such a separate world. But remember, because these men are giving up their own personal goals in order to live their lives for Jesus and His people, we should be giving them a lot of respect and attention. While we shouldn't revere them as if they are in some way better than others, we should be careful not to ignore them or shy away from them. They need personal contact and encouragement from all members of the Church whom they may one day be serving as priests!

The previously mentioned Adopt a Seminarian program is also a way to give more personal support to a seminarian; through it you can send letters of encouragement and prayers specifically to the seminarian you'll be paired with.

Finances

Are you aware that seminarians aren't able to have regular jobs? Seminary schedules just don't allow time for seminarians to work because they are concerned with formation of the whole man. Unlike regular university students, most of a seminarian's day is occupied, leaving no opportunity for a job. Sure, some are able to work during the summer, but what little they earn must last the whole year!

Think how difficult it can be for a man who does not come to seminary with a large savings to keep up with the basics – car costs, clothing, school books, and any personal things must be paid for by the seminarian himself. If he has to worry too much about these things, it can distract him from his priestly formation.

The second option is to help seminarians in emergency situations on an as-needed basis. For example, if a seminarian's car breaks down, you could be contacted to help assist him to pay for repairs if you are able.

If you are able to help support our seminarians financially, either way, please contact Melanie Savner in the vocation office at 913-647-0303 or vocation@archkck.org.

Everyone can give real support to our seminarians. Whatever way you think you are able to help, don't hesitate - by supporting seminarians now, you are contributing to their excellent formation as the priests who will be serving you later!