My diocese is experiencing a shortage of priests at this time. How can I approach my bishop to ask about joining the Sulpicians?
Your diocese is like many others in the U.S., and your bishop is probably concerned about the declining number of priests. At the same time, bishops accept their responsibility to provide for strong priestly formation in the Church. For this reason, it has been our experience that most bishops will take a priest seriously when he expresses an interest in the Sulpicians, provided there is no crisis at home and provided they feel that the priest himself is serious and has the gifts and potential for priestly formation. You should be aware that even if your bishop allows you to apply to the Sulpicians, he may postpone your transfer to Sulpician ministry until a time of his choosing. You should also be aware that when you join the Sulpicians, you remain incardinated in your home diocese and may continue to assist in your diocese as your Sulpician duties allow.
