A Return to Disputed Traditions

Cardinal Ranjith justifies his decision arguing that service at the altar is one of the main sources of vocations to the priesthood, a vocation reserved strictly for men in the Catholic Church. According to Cardinal Ranjith, to allow girls to serve at the altar could “affect the number of candidates that enter the Seminaries, a risk we cannot run.”

With this position, the Cardinal reinforces a historical tradition that, until the end of the 20th century, had excluded women from liturgical service. This exclusion, supported for centuries by Popes such as Benedict XIV and other ecclesiastical leaders, was modified in the decade of the 1990s under the pontificate of Saint John Paul II who allowed the inclusion of women as Ministers of the Altar.

Vocations and Exclusion: Necessity or Setback?

The Cardinal’s measure has unleashed questions on the relationship between masculine exclusivity in certain liturgical roles and the fostering of vocations. Although the Cardinal’s argument emphasizes the importance of protecting a source of candidates to the priesthood, it also poses questions about inclusion and women’s role in the Church.

For some sectors, limiting liturgical service to young men reinforces a hierarchical and excluding vision that could alienate women from a more active participation in the life of the Church. For others, it’s about a pragmatic decision in a context where priestly vocations are in decline, particularly in countries such as Sri Lanka.

Weight of The Historical Precedent

Although the tradition of excluding women from the altar has deep roots, its opening during Saint John Paul II’s pontificate was seen as a significant step to greater inclusion. The Pontifical Council for the Interpretation of Legislative Texts also interpreted canon 230 paragraph 2 of the Code of Canon Law to allow this practice, marking an important change in liturgical norms.

However, Cardinal Ranjith’s decision seems to go in the opposite sense, prioritizing the local need of vocations over a global vision of equality of participation.

Implications for the Church and the Laity

Beyond the immediate impact on Colombo’s parishes, this measure highlights the persistent tensions in the Catholic Church regarding women’s role in its structures. The exclusion of girls as altar servers not only affects their participation in the liturgy, but also transmits a message on their place in ecclesial life.

At a time when Pope Francis and others leaders have advocated for a greater inclusion of women in leadership roles and consultation inside the Church, this decision poses a striking contrast.

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Since its founding, the program has provided nearly $14 million in scholarships to more than 1700 individuals, known as Saeman Scholars, to advance their education and prepare them to return home and serve in leadership positions in their own countries.

“We are inspired by, and committed to, Saint John Paul II’s vision to prepare Catholic leaders and educators for service,” said Eustace Mita, President of The Papal Foundation Board of Trustees. “These scholarships help train those called to lead in developing nations, where resources for ongoing leadership formation are limited.”

In 1998, then Pope John Paul II was asked what he would do with an unrestricted, $5 million gift. Without hesitating, he said he would provide scholarships for tuition, room, and board to priests, religious sisters, and laity from disadvantaged countries, allowing them to study in Rome and then return to their dioceses to teach the authentic magisterium of the Church. The program launched in 2000 thanks to the wonderful generosity of John and Carol Saeman of Denver, CO, who made the initial $5 million gift that was matched by The Papal Foundation.

“This scholarship is a miracle for myself and the people of my area,” said Justin Musona, a diocesan priest from the Catholic Diocese of Mutare in Zimbabwe. “I embrace learning, and the scholarship has given me a deeper level of understanding and education in our Faith.  I want to assure you that I will put my learnings to good use in the pastoral field.” “Saint John Paul II knew we needed a way to provide educational opportunities in Rome for individuals from disadvantaged countries, so they could return to their dioceses equipped to help secure the future of the Church around the world,” added Dave Savage, Executive Director of The Papal Foundation. “He himself was sent to Rome as a student priest, an experience that helped shape his life of servant leadership. Forming leaders in the Catholic Church is a blessing, and we and we are incredibly grateful to John and Carol Saeman, who made this work possible.

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The audience was held in the Apostolic Palace at 8:30 am. It happens to be the first inter-diocesan seminary created in Spain following a meeting the Holy Father Francis had with the entire Spanish Episcopate on November 28, 2023. In the words of José Antonio Castro, the Seminary’s Rector, “the audience with the Pope is an incentive in the process we are engaged in and it will help our Seminary to continue walking in fidelity to the Gospel and the Church.”

Pope Francis opted once again to read personally the message he had prepared, which we reproduce below, and to answer the questions the seminarians freely posed to him.

* * *

Dear Brother Bishops,

Dear Formators and Seminarians of the “Apostle James” Major Inter-Diocesan Seminary

Good morning. I welcome you all who know well the footsteps of the Apostle James in Spain, and now you come as pilgrims to Rome, in the footsteps of the Apostle Peter and other faithful followers of Jesus. As they say in your land, [you are on] the right track!

I know that, since September, you have been living a new way as “Inter-Diocesan” Seminary, uniting the dioceses of Santiago de Compostela, Tui-Vigo and Mondoñedo-Ferrol. I thank you for your availability. I encourage you to go forward with renewed fortitude and hope.

I believe the image of “pilgrimage” is appropriate to indicate the formative itinerary that you are following. As pilgrims, we first hear a call, which impels us to go out of ourselves; then we throw ourselves into the adventure and begin to walk, in the course of different moments and stages. Finally, we arrive at the goal. This also happens in the formation to the priesthood, where the objective is to become Pastors of the People of God, Pastors forged in the measure of Christ’s Heart, humble and merciful. Remember that you are not alone on the way, this is fundamental: do not be afraid to open your heart to the Lord and to let yourselves be accompanied by Him, so that He goes moulding your lives. 

Moreover, don’t forget that, on the way, you will meet many different people, sometimes you will be going through difficult moments, [with those] who are wounded and do not know God. Be for all of them witnesses of the joy of the Gospel, offering them the tenderness and consolation of the Lord, so that He will heal the blisters of the path. Do not fail to be those “yellow arrows” that, as Saint John the Baptist, point out Jesus and say to all, with his words but also and especially with his way of living: “This is the Lamb of God” (John 1:29).

Dear brothers, the Holy Year 2025 is approaching, with this Jubilee grace that is given to us, let us continue walking together, as pilgrims of hope, to the heavenly homeland.

May Jesus bless you and the Holy Virgin look after you. And please, when you return, ask James the Apostle to intercede for me. Thank you very much.

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The celebrations were graced by the presence of Monsignor Fortunatus Nwachukwu, Secretary of the Vatican Dicastery for Evangelization and a proud alumnus of the seminary. Presiding over the outdoor ceremony attended by hundreds, Monsignor Nwachukwu emphasized the transformative nature of diaconal ordination in his homily. “As Stephen and his companions, you are elevated not by lineage or heritage, as the Levites were, but by God’s divine choice,” he remarked, urging the new deacons to embrace their vocation as a universal calling to serve.

A Legacy of Service and Impact

Founded a century ago and named after Jeanne Bigard, co-founder of the Pontifical Work of St. Peter the Apostle, the Bigard Memorial Seminary has grown into a beacon of theological and philosophical education. Currently hosting 780 seminarians, the institution has made an indelible mark on the Church. Its alumni include four cardinals, 14 archbishops, and 37 bishops, alongside countless priests ministering worldwide.

Centennial Highlights

The centenary celebrations extended beyond the spiritual, encompassing a vibrant mix of cultural and athletic events, competitions, and the premiere of a documentary chronicling the seminary’s rich history. A significant moment in the festivities was the blessing of a new residential pavilion, symbolizing the seminary’s ongoing expansion and commitment to the formation of future clergy.

The main building, inaugurated on March 4, 1951, remains a testament to the vision and dedication of those who have sustained the seminary over the decades. As Bigard looks ahead, its leadership and community remain focused on fostering a new generation of clergy equipped to meet the challenges of modern evangelization.

A Testament to Faith

Bigard Memorial Seminary’s 100-year journey is not just a chronicle of milestones but a testament to the enduring power of faith and education. As the newly ordained deacons embark on their ministry, they carry forward a legacy rooted in service, resilience, and the pursuit of spiritual excellence.

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The ceremony was presided over by Bishop Hugo Nicolás Barbaro of San Roque de Presidencia Roque Sáenz Peña, Argentina. His homily was a heartfelt call to embrace a life of selflessness, inspired by the teachings of Christ and the founder of Opus Dei, St. Josemaría Escrivá.

A Call to Serve: «Be a Carpet for Others»

In his homily to the ordinands, Bishop Barbaro drew upon an image deeply rooted in the spirituality of Opus Dei. “The priest must be a carpet where others tread softly,” he reminded the new deacons, emphasizing that their ministry begins with humility and a readiness to serve.

Drawing from the words of Pope Francis, Barbaro highlighted the unpredictability of true service: “Serving means being available, renouncing personal agendas, and being open to God’s surprises, which often manifest through the needs of others.”

He urged the new deacons to balance structure and spontaneity, listening to God and to the people they serve. “To truly serve,” he said, “one must pray, encourage, listen, forgive, and bring joy. It means treating everyone with equal kindness.”

Christ as the Model of Service

At the conclusion of the ordination, Monsignor Fernando Ocáriz, the Prelate of Opus Dei, offered words of gratitude and encouragement. He reminded the new deacons that their mission mirrors the life of Christ, the ultimate servant.

“It is through a personal encounter with Christ in the Eucharist and prayer that we enlarge our hearts to embrace everyone,” Ocáriz said. He also acknowledged the joy shared by the ordinands’ families and invited them to continue supporting the deacons in prayer as they prepare for priesthood.

Ocáriz reflected on the legacy of St. Josemaría, expressing confidence that the founder was rejoicing in heaven. “Through his intercession,” Ocáriz said, “may these deacons welcome and accompany all souls, with the maternal guidance of the Virgin Mary.”

A Diverse Group Reflecting the Global Reach of Opus Dei

The 20 new deacons represent a tapestry of cultures and backgrounds, showcasing the international scope of Opus Dei’s mission. Among them were:

– Vincenzo Affinita and Stefano Baravelli (Italy)

– John Robert Bickford and Robert Alvin Marsland (United States)

– Artur Escamilla (Australia)

– Santiago Populín Such and Pedro Perkins (Argentina)

– Jose Miguel Marasigan (Philippines)

– Santiago Fabregat (Mexico)

– Ramón Fernández Aparicio, Luis García-Menacho Ariz, and others from Spain

The Mission Ahead

As these men begin their diaconal ministry, their task is clear: to be instruments of service, both within the Church and in the broader world. Their ordination reflects a timeless truth within Catholicism—that true greatness lies in humble service, inspired by Christ and fueled by love for all people.

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A Legacy of Decline

This crisis, outlined in a recent Irish Times report, is rooted in a decades-long trend. Once home to thriving seminaries such as Clonliffe and All Hallows, alongside the still-operational national seminary at Maynooth, Dublin now faces a stark reality: only two priests have been ordained since 2020.

Nationwide, the situation is equally dire. Since 1970, Ireland has seen a 70% drop in the number of priests and religious, with the aging clergy becoming a pressing issue. Over the past three years alone, more than 25% of priests in Ireland have passed away, and the average age of those remaining has surpassed 70.

Father Tim Hazelwood of the Association of Catholic Priests warns that such predictions often underestimate the pace of change. Reflecting on the experience of the Christian Brothers, he noted that declines projected over 20 years were realized in just a decade. “People are shocked,” he said, referring to the accelerating losses.

Overburdened Clergy and the Strain of Ministry

The dwindling numbers have left aging priests shouldering heavier responsibilities. In rural dioceses, some priests are tasked with serving up to 12 churches, a burden Father Hazelwood describes as «unjust.» The strain is palpable even in urban settings like Dublin, where financial pressures compound the challenges. The latest diocesan financial report warns that reserves for its charitable arm, Diocesan Support Services, could be depleted within 16 years.

The reliance on international clergy has become a critical lifeline. Monsignor John Byrne, based in Portlaoise, Midlands, oversees a parish supported by priests from Indonesia, Romania, China, and Brazil. However, even this international aid is insufficient to address the growing gap in leadership.

Laity and Adaptation

In response to the shortage, Irish dioceses are increasingly turning to lay involvement. Laity are being trained to lead funeral liturgies, a role traditionally reserved for priests. This shift signals a broader transformation in how the Church envisions ministry in a time of scarcity.

The changes are not isolated to Ireland. In England and Wales, seminary admissions have fluctuated, with just 16 men entering training in 2022, down from 20 the previous year. Globally, vocations are rising in Africa and Asia, but this growth cannot offset the decline in Europe and Oceania.

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Established in 1981 during a period of declining vocations in North America, RSVP provides direct financial support to individuals in religious training through contributions from the Knights’ network of more than 16,800 local councils. For every $500 a local council donates to a seminarian or aspiring religious, the Supreme Council of the Knights reimburses the council with an additional $100, incentivizing donations up to a maximum of $400 per recipient.

The RSVP program also encourages local councils to provide non-financial support, such as sending letters, making personal visits to seminaries, and inviting seminarians to local events. This personal connection is designed to create lasting bonds between religious aspirants and the communities they aim to serve. Knights of Columbus Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly emphasized the importance of this connection, stating that last year alone, over 2,700 councils contributed a record-breaking $4.1 million through RSVP.

Kelly noted that the organization’s commitment to supporting vocations stems from its founder, Blessed Michael J. McGivney, whose own path to priesthood was threatened by financial hardship. Born to Irish immigrants in Connecticut in 1852, McGivney had to leave school at 13 to support his family. Later, his studies at St. Mary’s College in Montreal were nearly derailed when his father passed away. A timely scholarship from the Bishop of Hartford allowed him to continue, paving the way for his priesthood and the eventual founding of the Knights of Columbus.

Kelly underscored the significance of this support today, as many seminarians face steep educational costs—reaching $55,000 annually in some regions. Many also bring student debt from their undergraduate studies, making programs like RSVP essential. Kelly described RSVP as a way to “pay forward” the life-changing support that enabled McGivney to fulfill his vocation, adding that these initiatives are crucial for empowering the next generation of Catholic clergy.

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In his address, the Pope highlighted the importance of forming bonds that embody the priesthood’s calling, urging seminarians to foster a deep sense of unity with God, their bishops, fellow clergy, and the faithful community. He underscored the need for these four dimensions of closeness, noting that a priest isolated from his bishop is “lame, missing something essential.”

Pope Francis further encouraged the seminarians to reflect on the tradition of the “Reserved Procession,” a historical ceremony marking the first reservation of the Holy Eucharist in their seminary’s chapel tabernacle. He linked its stages—the celebration of the Eucharist, a day-long Eucharistic adoration, and a concluding procession—with the foundations of priestly life. In each stage, he emphasized, priests are called to embody a self-giving love, deep communion with Christ, and an unwavering commitment to accompany the faithful.

During the dialogue, the seminarians were invited to share their thoughts and experiences, creating an atmosphere of fraternity and reflection. Pope Francis expressed his wish that their journey to priesthood be one of genuine devotion, marked by a living relationship with Christ, and an unwavering commitment to serve others.

***

Dear bishops,
Dear formators and staff of the Seminary,
Dear Seminarians,

I am pleased to meet a new group of seminarians who, like the confraternities in the towns of Spain, come in procession to this Mother Church, for a station of penance. Penance, or tourism?

This analogy came to my mind, first of all because it is always useful to look at the Holy People of God in their spirituality, their simple spirituality. You know that priests must be close, the must promote proximity. First, closeness with God, so that there may be capacity to encounter the Lord, to be close to the Lord. Second, closeness with bishops, and bishops close to priests. A priest who is not close to his bishop is “lame”, he is lacking something. Third, closeness among you priests, which already begins in the seminary, and fourth, closeness to the holy faithful people of God. Do not forget these four forms of proximity.

I know that in these days you are preparing for the procession of the “Reservado”. An ancient tradition that commemorates the first time the Blessed Sacrament was reservado, or rather conserved, in the Tabernacle of the chapel. Watch how you genuflect when you go, watch.

This interesting commemoration consists of three moments: the celebration of the Eucharist, the exposition of the Sacrament during the entire day, and finally the procession. These phases can serve to remind us of the fundamental elements of the priesthood for which you are preparing. First of all, the Eucharistic celebration. It is Jesus who comes into our life to give us the proof of the greatest love. He invites us, as Church, to make ourselves present in the priesthood and among the people, in the sacrament and in the Word. May having him on earth absorb your life and your heart.

Then, the Lord remains exposed in the monstrance all day long. It is a time to be alone with Him, to hear His voice in silence, in listening to the Word, in the witness of faith of those who pray beside us.  Only the person-to-person, loving encounter with Jesus can illuminate, maintain and sustain the course of our earthly day.  May this encounter truly be an effective impulse that transforms your existence.

Finally, carrying the Lord in procession, because we receive Him in order to carry Him: our ministry is to accompany Christ towards His people, and the people towards Christ. May you, without turning your gaze away from the One who judges us, learn to walk together in the hope of the encounter of which we already have a foretaste here in a sacramental way. Thank you.

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Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan, chair of the Bishops’ Council for Vocations, expressed his gratitude and optimism. “It is truly heartening that 21 men have begun their journey as seminarians across various institutions, taking part in preparatory courses. We give thanks to God for each one of them,» he said. His words reflect a growing sense of hope within the Irish Church, which has seen a concerted effort to reinvigorate discussions about the priesthood.

A Renewed Focus on Vocations

Over the past year, Ireland’s bishops have spearheaded a national push to encourage men to answer the call to priesthood, using both traditional methods and social media platforms to reach wider audiences. Parishes have been actively promoting vocations, while prayers for new priests have been emphasized in communities across the country. Feedback from these efforts shows that encounters with both clergy and committed laypeople have played a pivotal role in fostering a renewed understanding of the priesthood.

«The idea that God continues to call men to serve as priests has taken root once again in the minds and hearts of the faithful,» Bishop Cullinan noted. His message was clear: the need for more priests remains critical, and the work of promoting vocations must continue with urgency and commitment. He praised the example set by priests across Ireland, whose compassionate leadership in both good times and bad continues to inspire new generations.

Responding to God’s Call

Father Willie Purcell, the National Coordinator for Diocesan Vocations, also welcomed the new seminarians, emphasizing that their response to God’s call is a testament to the ongoing need for priestly vocations in the modern world. «These 21 men entering the propedeutic year show the world that God’s call to the diocesan priesthood never stops. While today’s number is good news, I pray that vocations will continue to grow in the years to come. The Church and the faithful need priests,» said Father Purcell.

He also highlighted the significance of the global Synodal Path, a process of reflection and renewal for the Church. Father Purcell pointed out that the generosity of these new seminarians is a reminder for all Catholics to reflect on their own vocational stories and to participate in the ongoing renewal of their dioceses and parishes. He extended his gratitude to the vocation directors across Ireland, whose guidance and support have been crucial in helping men discern their call to priesthood.

Diverse Pathways for Formation

The new seminarians are spread across several seminaries, both in Ireland and abroad. They are currently undergoing their propedeutic program at institutions including the Redemptoris Mater Seminary in Dundalk, the Archdiocese of Armagh, the Royal English College in Valladolid, Spain, the Royal Scots College in Salamanca, Spain, and the International Seminary in Ars, France. These centers of formation offer not only academic and theological training but also a nurturing environment for spiritual and personal growth, vital for the future priests of the Church.

A Hopeful Future for the Irish Church

As Ireland continues to navigate the challenges of a changing religious landscape, the arrival of these 21 seminarians brings renewed hope. Their decision to pursue priesthood in a time when vocations have been on the decline sends a powerful message about faith and commitment. Bishop Cullinan’s words of encouragement echoed a wider sentiment: «Let us pray that those who have chosen the path of the priesthood will find fulfillment and bring Christ’s truth and healing to our broken world.»

While the numbers are modest, the dedication of these men is a significant step forward for the Irish Church. Their presence in seminaries across Europe and Ireland signifies a broader, global vision for the priesthood, and their journeys will likely inspire others to consider the same path.

As the faithful continue their Synodal journey, these 21 men serve as a reminder of the importance of priestly vocations in sustaining the life and mission of the Church. With their commitment, they embody the hope for a renewed and revitalized Church in Ireland.

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Currently, 26 men from dioceses in Northern Ireland are in formation for the priesthood, a number greeted with cautious optimism. The Archdiocese of Armagh leads with 16 seminarians, followed by Derry with four, Dromore with two, and Down and Connor with three. Down and Connor is also expecting an additional six seminarians to enter formation next month, marking the highest intake in three years for the diocese. 

A Critical Boost for the Church

Father Eddie Magee, spokesperson for the Diocese of Down and Connor, emphasized the importance of this increase in vocations. He acknowledged that the new seminarians are arriving at a time when the Church is facing significant difficulties in meeting the spiritual needs of its congregations.

“These vocations come at a crucial time when fulfilling pastoral demands in our parishes is increasingly challenging,” Magee told the Irish News. He added that the rise in seminarians reflects the Church’s unwavering commitment to fostering and supporting those who feel called to the priesthood.

Each diocese has a Vocations Director, who assists those discerning their vocation. This support is bolstered by annual retreats and events designed to guide individuals considering a life of ministry. The Church is working to create environments where potential priests can explore their calling in a deeper and more meaningful way.

Signs of Renewal Amid Ongoing Challenges

The modest increase in vocations stands in contrast to the reality faced by the Church in Ireland just a few decades ago. In the past, the National Seminary at Maynooth could host over 500 seminarians at its peak. Today, however, the seminary only has around 20 men in formation for the priesthood, underscoring the broader struggles the Church continues to face in attracting new vocations.

The closure of St. Malachy’s Diocesan Seminary in Belfast in 2018 further complicated the situation. Following its closure, seminarians from the diocese were sent to institutions in Italy, Spain, France, and Ireland. While this has spread out the formation process across multiple locations, the commitment of those entering the priesthood remains undiminished.

A Glimmer of Hope for the Future

Despite the continuing obstacles, the increase in men responding to the priesthood indicates that faith remains a vibrant part of Irish society. Father Magee highlighted the need for the Church and its community to continue praying for vocations and supporting those who choose the path of ministry—whether as priests, deacons, or members of religious life.

“As a diocese, we ask for God’s blessing on all those responding to the call to priestly ministry and encourage everyone to keep praying for more vocations,” Magee concluded.

The rise in the number of seminarians offers more than just hope for the future of the Church in Ireland—it is a reassuring sign that even in difficult times, the commitment to faith and service continues to resonate with young men across the country. The Church’s work is far from over, but this increase is a step in the right direction, pointing toward the possibility of renewed vibrancy in the decades to come.

This modest revival may well serve as a turning point for the Catholic Church in Ireland, reminding both clergy and laypeople that even amidst challenges, faith can inspire a new generation of leaders to guide the Church forward.

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