Letter: Number of seminarians is ‘increasing steadily’

I just read the Irish News article about the number of seminarians in the country.

It is right to say that there’s a large number currently taking a propaedeutic (preparatory) year in France and Spain. Please God, the vast majority, if not all, will begin more formal seminary studies this time next year.

It’s wrong, however, about the numbers in Maynooth. There are 12 new entrants this year, bringing the total to 30, not including those who are on pastoral placement.

Yes, the numbers are low in comparison with years gone by but, thanks to the prayers of God’s people, the numbers are increasing steadily, particularly in the two northern dioceses of Derry and Down & Connor.

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You might like to advertise the upcoming “Come & See” weekend in Maynooth from November 15 to 17, for anyone interested in exploring or discerning a vocation to the priesthood. For further information, they should contact their diocesan Vocations Director.

Fr Pat O’Hagan

Vocations Director, Diocese of Derry

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