Catholic Seminaries in Rome

Rome and the Vatican City, home to many international seminaries

The headquarters of the Catholic Church is Vatican City, which is a city inside of Rome. Therefore, there are numerous seminaries of many countries inside of Rome for anyone considering entering the priesthood.

Definition

A seminary is a school of higher learning that prepares students, prior to entering the priesthood, for life as a clergy member.

Creation of the Roman Catholic Seminary

The Council of Trent, which began in 1545 and ended in 1563, laid the groundwork for the Roman Catholic seminary. Of the many seminaries in Rome, however, The Pontifical North American College, the Venerable English College and the Vatican City's Pontifical Roman Major Seminary are the most well known.

The Pontifical North American College

Innaugurated on Dec. 8, 1859, by Pope Pius IX, The Pontifical North American College was created so North American students could experience life in a Roman Catholic seminary while surrounded by Roman society and culture.

Venerable English College

Founded in 1579, the Venerable English College is the oldest English institution in the world outside of England. Seminary students study alongside other students of theology at Gregorian or Angelicum University.

Pontifical Roman Major Seminary

According to The Catholic Encyclopedia, this seminary opened in 1565 after the Council of Trent. The Vatican City's is one of the world's most popular seminaries, and it is located near the Lateran Basilica.

References

• The Pontifical North American College: About The North American College
• Venerable English College: English seminary in Rome
• New Advent and The Catholic Encyclopedia: Roman Colleges

Resources

• The Pontifical North American College: America's seminary in Rome