Aspiring Catholic priests may attend a seminary before ordination. You can still officiate a wedding even if it isn't legally binding by having the couple visit a registry office to make their marriage official.

Steps.

However, most men can expect to spend at least four years, but more than likely six to eight years in formation before being ordained a priest. How do I go about applying to be a priest? You must be at least 25 years old to become a priest, but this is rarely an issue unless you complete your studies unusually early. Click to … Meet the basic requirements. In the Roman Catholic Church, a priest must be male and unmarried. Some churches, like the Roman Catholic Church, may require candidates to go to seminary for four years. Practical guidance for selection, training, and life in ministry Many Eastern Catholic Churches will ordain married men. Some aspirants fit into a conventional formation program. [1] X Research source The Timeline to Ordination As stated earlier, how long it takes to become a Catholic priest depends on a number of factors. How Long Does it Take to Study to Be a Priest? Being granted a position at a seminary with no bachelor’s degree will take you approximately 8 years for you to complete your studies. Would-be candidates have first to convince a parish priest that they have the makings of a priest.’ Photograph: JVPhoto/Alamy T he calling, when it came, was not a siren summons from above.

The process of formation before ordination takes up to 7 years (older men may follow a shorter programme). Formation involves not only study and skills development but also a deepening of discipleship. To become officially ordained as a priest, which takes many years, you can enroll in a theological institution and begin your training alongside your vicar.

You will most likely be ordained a priest by your bishop after a year of curacy, provided this is the type of ministry you have been training for.