What is a diocesan priest?

A priest is called "diocesan" because he commits himself to serve the people of a particular geographic area, known as a diocese. The five civil parishes of Southwest Louisiana make up the Diocese of Lake Charles.

What does a diocesan priest do?

The diocesan priest serves the day to day needs of the people of his church parish. He might serve as a counselor to young people, parents, and married couples. He works with youth groups, and church organizations. He visits the sick at home and in the hospitals. He celebrates Mass and other sacraments such as marriage and baptism. His work is to lead the people in prayer.

Can a priest have fun?

Yes, he most certainly can! Besides the ministry that a priest gives to the people, the life of a priest can be very fulfilling. While meeting the needs of others, he finds joy in his own life. Helping others can be very rewarding.

Besides helping others, a priest finds joy in his friends and with other priests. Priests enjoy the same things that other people do - such as vacationing, going to movies, visiting friends and family, and developing hobbies.

Do diocesan priests get specialized training?

A diocesan priest is first of all trained to be a church parish priest. He is trained to do all the things that are needed in the every day life of the Church.

Priests may also receive specialized training in areas such as counseling, teaching, youth ministry, communications, working with the poor, and any other area where the Church foresees a need.

Can a diocesan priest serve outside his diocese?

Periodically, a priest may ask his bishop for permission to serve outside his diocese. Sometimes, diocesan priests will serve as teachers, missionaries, or in another capacity in another diocese.

How long does it take to become a diocesan priest?

It all depends upon the person, his background, and when he begins his preparation. To be ordained a priest, a candidate needs a four-year graduate school degree, what we refer to as theology. A person can begin the seminary training while in college or after having completed college.

How do you know if God is calling you to be a priest?

The only way to know is to spend time in prayer and in discussion with others. Contact your pastor, the Vocation Office, or an active lay person in your parish to discuss your feelings and your faith. In sharing our faith with others, we often will hear the voice of God.

If you desire more information about the priesthood or religious life - why not contact Father Aubrey Guilbeau, Vocation Director? He would be pleased to give a confidential, no obligation, no hard sell, realistic response to your questions. If you like, Father Guilbeau could also arrange for other priests to talk with you as well. After all, they're the ones in the trenches, so to speak.