Venerable English College, Rome


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	The Venerable English College

		The Venerable English College exists to prepare men to serve as priests in England and Wales. It provides an environment in which seminarians can live the spirituality of a diocesan priest over several years and so discern if this is their calling. The College offers a home to a small number of priests pursuing further studies as well. The preparation can be described under four headings: The development of a prayer life which will sustain a diocesan priest in developing the spirituality of his parishioners (Spiritual Formation). Intellectual formation in Philosophy and Theology which aims to deepen the seminarian's faith and prepares him to share this faith with those whom he is called to serve (Intellectual Formation). Development of the Human qualities required of a priest exercising celibate leadership of a parish (Human Formation). Preparation to preside at sacramental celebrations, to preach, teach, catechise, counsel and manage (Pastoral Formation).
	The College has a staff of five priests from English dioceses to oversee the programme of formation - a Rector, Vice-Rector, Philosophy Tutor, Theology Tutor and Spiritual Director. The Rector and Vice-Rector are assisted in their management of the College by an Administrator and two secretaries. The English College offers the opportunity to prepare for priesthood in England and Wales alongside priests, seminarians and religious from every Continent studying at the Pontifical Universities (the Gregorian and Angelicum). Seminarians complete their university studies with a Licence after seven years.

		Whether or not a man proceeds to ordination, he is invariably grateful for the time spent at the English College. Those who are ordained find they draw for the whole of their priestly ministry on the experience of having lived and studied in the unique institution known across the globe as the 'Venerabile'.