Meet the Increased Vocations Demand

The Diocese of Albany in recent years has experienced resurgence in vocations to the priesthood and diaconate. Currently:

  • 107 men are in the discernment process (30 of which have advanced to further stages within the process);
  • 9 men are in the aspirant process;
  • 18 seminarians are in formation;
  • 12 seminarians and aspirants participate in the St. Isaac Jogues House of Discernment program and 5 of those men live in the house; and,
  • 27 total Seminarians and Aspirants who are in Formation for the Diocese of Albany.

Additionally:

  • In the past three years 8 priests were ordained; and,
  • Over the course of the next three years, 7 more men will be ordained to serve within the Diocese of Albany.

These numbers are very promising and will allow our parish communities to have dedicated leaders. However, as we realize greater success in encouraging, informing and inviting men to discern the priesthood and religious life, we must also increase associated financial support to ensure they are provided with the necessary discernment and educational opportunities to shape their faith. Funding from the Bishop’s Appeal no longer meets growing needs for preparing our future priests.

To that end, a portion of the 30% of campaign funds raised will be used to provide the resources needed to undergo the extensive education and training that will allow seminarians to serve parishioners throughout the Diocese of Albany for many years to come.

Did you know?

The average cost for one year of seminary training is $ 50,000. The average length of time for seminary training is six years.  

Once a man is accepted as a candidate for priesthood, the room, board and tuition costs associated with the seminary are paid for by the diocese.  Additionally, the diocese covers the seminarian’s health insurance and assists with the cost of books and study aids.  The seminarian is responsible for his personal expenditures (e.g. the cost of operating and maintaining an automobile, clothes, gifts, etc.) however, a modest stipend is given to seminarians on a monthly basis to defer some of their expenses.