Exploration of Experiential Learning and Rigorous Workload in a Formation Program

Welcome to Episode 175 of the Being Human Podcast: Rethinking Formation: Preparing Priests for the Future with Father Sam Kachuba

In today’s episode, Dr. Greg had a conversation with Father Sam Kachuba, a pastor, a podcaster and one of our Partner Mentors at CatholicPsych. They share insights on priesthood formation and the significance of CatholicPsych’s Certification Program’s Capstone Project. They explore the differences between traditional academic programs and hands-on Certification. They also talk about the challenges that priests encounter, and their need for proper support and mentorship to guide them in their personal growth and healing, self-awareness, and emotional readiness. They emphasize the importance of providing priests with comprehensive formation programs that can develop their skills in pastoral ministry, spiritual direction and mental health support.

Discussed in the episode:

• Father Sam’s witnessing on his personal experiences with CatholicPsych’s Certification Program and how it has impacted his personal growth and various aspects of his pastoral work as a priest

• Exploring the gaps and challenges faced by new priests especially in their first assignments, the lack of formation and foundation among priests of today, and the difficulties priests face 

• Understanding the importance of proper mentorship, consistent guidance and a solid human formation in the life of seminarians and priests, and how these can have powerful impact on the effectiveness of pastoral and ministry work

• Navigating the significant shifts in the Church since 2001 and their impact on seminarians and priests

• Insights into the four pillars of seminary formation—human, intellectual, spiritual, and pastoral—and how they're essential for a well-rounded formation

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