CHAPTER 8
The aim of this essay is to underscore the integral nature of academic/intellectual formation in the Catholic priesthood, with particular reference to the propaedeutic philosophical studies that is prerequisite for theological studies. It is common among seminarians studying philosophy to question the necessity and relevance of going through such rigorous studies in philosophy. The informing idea is that the priest does not need all that knowledge to effectively minister to the people of God, given that the ministry of the word involves competent knowledge of scriptures, church doctrines and teachings. Against this backdrop, this essay seeks to establish the relevance and accentuate the value of philosophical knowledge and skills in the pastoral ministry of the Catholic priest. The objective is to encourage Catholic priests, especially of the presbyterium of Auchi diocese, to deepen their philosophical knowledge and skills as this will contribute immensely to their pastoral and shepherding ministry. To this end, | shall, using the quantitative method of analysis, first discuss the intellectual dimension of seminary formation within the wider context of the four integral dimensions of priestly formation. Secondly. I shall discuss the
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