ASIA/CHINA - Formation of the new priests of the 21st century: opening of the Major Seminary school year in Si Chuan

Cheng Du (Agenzia Fides) - The new school year of the Major Seminary in Si Chuan, was inaugurated this morning, Sept. 6, at 8:30 (local time). In line with the spirit that characterizes the life of the Seminar - "Total Consecration, authentic dedication, and constant happiness" – therefore the activity to form new priests of the 21st century is resumed, so they become "excellent servants of Christ and the good shepherds of the Church ". According to information received by Fides, after prayer, the teachers welcomed the new students and seminarians, who lived their vacation period acquiring pastoral experience in parishes. The Director presented the scholastic and spiritual program, and even the team of teachers. He also explained to all the people present the spirit of the motto of the Seminar: "Total Consecration, authentic dedication and constant happiness". According to the Director, "the formation should be integral both physical and scientific, and moral and spiritual. The formation of seminarians is a continuous journey on the path of sanctification. Thus the new priests of the 21st century are formed. "Finally, everyone advocated the protection of the Virgin and St. Joseph on the Seminar’s activity and formation of the future pastors of the Church. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 06/09/2011)