Walking on Hot Coals: A Phenomenological Study on Dealing with Temptations in the Seminary

Abstract

The seminary life for Catholic seminarians includes aspects of their human, spiritual, academic, and pastoral formation. While staying in the seminary, they may encounter different kinds of temptations that can hinder them from pursuing their priestly vocations. This research explored the diverse temptations diocesan priests experienced when they were still seminarians. This study then explored the diverse ways of managing these temptations for the research participants. Using the transcendental phenomenology design, the researchers interviewed ten priests to explore their experiences on how they dealt with their experienced temptations. After the data analysis, six themes surfaced on temptations: family-related temptations, sexuality, deviation from the seminary structure, the temptation to isolate from the community, the envy of life outside the seminary, and doing things inconsistent with the priestly vocation. To cope with their temptation, they employed strategies such as: cultivating self-discipline, prayer, and reflection, being faithful to the mandates of the priestly vocation, living in the seminary formation process, and adjusting to community life. Thus, the research participants completed their seminary formation and were ordained as Roman Catholic priests.

Exploring the Contributions of Aikido to the Well-Being of the Seminarians

“…Additionally, they adjust to community life, embracing the support and accountability it offers. Through these strategies, seminarians strive to overcome temptations and foster their spiritual journey and commitment to their calling (Naparan et al, 2022).…”

“…Aikido training provides a release for stress and tension, promotes relaxation and well-being through dynamic movements, breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices, fosters a sense of community and connection, and equips seminarians with effective strategies to cope with stressors and enhance their emotional well-being. For certain seminarians, the structured and disciplined nature of seminary life can present significant challenges as they strive to adapt and fully embrace this environment (Naparan et al, 2022).…”

“…The seminary life for Catholic seminarians includes aspects of their human, spiritual, academic, and pastoral formation (Naparan et al, 2022). These challenges may vary from broader societal issues, such as changing cultural norms and religious diversity, to more specific challenges within their local contexts, such as community expectations and the demands of their religious institutions.…”

Towards the Altar: An In-depth Exploration of Seminarians’ Aspiration Towards Priestly Vocation

“…It is also worth noting that the bond these socialization activities foster among them proper behaviors and mutual understanding and mitigates the loneliness experienced in seminary life. Some ostentatiously said: Research has shown that lacking companionship is the principal cause of loneliness in seminary formation (Naparan et al, 2022). Engaging in batch bonding activities can significantly contribute to honing crucial social skills and emotional intelligence required for effective ministry.…”

“…One dominant factor is the support they receive from their family. In a recent study published in Millah: Journal of Religious Studies, financial support from their families bears a consequential impact on aspiring seminarians, enabling them to sustain their motivation and prosper throughout their seminary formation (Naparan et al, 2022). Such a significant idea is reverberated by some participants.…”