Rite of Candidacy - Mr. Matthew Valles

The Rite of Candidacy was celebrated by Bishop Deeley at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Portland on Friday, December 11. The Rite of Candidacy signifies that a seminarian has reached a point in his discernment where he and the Church are ready to make their intentions public. The seminarian will promise to prepare himself in mind and spirit to “give faithful service to Christ the Lord and his Body, the Church."

Reflection by: Mr. Matthew Valles

The Rite of Candidacy signifies for me the Church accepting my public declaration to continue formation toward priesthood for the Diocese of Portland. I now view the rest of my formation as less about whether God is calling me to priesthood, and more about how He is calling me to live out this vocation. My time at St. John's Seminary has prepared me for candidacy by providing me with the means to listen to the voice of God in prayer, study His Word and see Him more clearly in everyone whom I meet.

Receiving candidacy as I did would not have been possible without St. John's Seminary. The formation that I have received from advisors; knowledge acquired in the class room; guidance through spiritual direction; fraternity with my brother seminarians; and, many visits to the Blessed Sacrament were invaluable in my preparation. I am most grateful to St. John's Seminary for helping me come to this step in my formation.
Thank you SJS! Vivat Jesus! Ave Maria!