Expert: Fr. Michael - 8/5/2007

Question
Greetings Reverend.  I was a Catholic for my first 18 years.  Then I didn't attend Mass for 10 years.  Then I read the Bible and converted to Protestantism, was baptized again, studied the Bible, Church History, Theology and Doctrine for 10 years.  Then I began reading the Pre-Nicene, Nicene, Post-Nicene Writings of the Early Church Fathers, which convinced me to return to the Catholic Church.  About a year ago I began attending Mass again.

Where can I find information on the Priesthood or Deacon.  I would like information on educational requirements.  Does a person need 4 years of college or Does a person go directly into Seminary.  Where are the Seminaries?  Does a person need to join an Order?  I'm not married and I don't have any children.  I want to serve God and help the needy.

I look forward to hearing from you.  Thank you for your time.

Answer
There are a number of options for the traditional priesthood.  We would refer you to the section "Traditional Catholic Seminaries" in the Official Traditional Catholic Directory, www.traditio.com/nat.hml.  From there, you can begin to investigate those that are of interest to you.  Some do not require a college education; some are not associated with particular religious orders.