By Dr. Scott Hahn
I love the feeling when I'm finished grading final exams.
This was my first year teaching seminarians at St. Vincent's Seminary, where I hold the Pope Benedict XVI Chair in Biblical Theology and Liturgical Proclamation.
It was a lively course as I took these future priests verse-by-verse through the Gospel of John. But when it came time for the final exam, the professor threw his students a curve ball.
Instead of a traditional test with multiple choice and essay questions, I had them do something that shows the value of biblical theology for what they'll be doing for the rest of their lives - reading, praying, preaching, and administering the sacraments to you and me.
I gave them the Mass readings for three Sundays in Lent, in which the gospel is chosen from John. I asked them to select one of those Sundays and write a homily based on the lectionary readings.
Their homilies, I told them, should connect the Old Testament reading and the passage from John in order to explain how the gospel events relate to the liturgical season of Lent; but even more to show how the truth of God's word is fulfilled in the Eucharist - and in our everyday lives.
Finally, I reminded them that they were writing homilies, not term papers - that they'd be graded not just on their knowledge, but also on whether they showed how the truths of Scripture keep coming true in the Eucharist they will be celebrating at the altar.
I'm happy to report that my students - your future priests and fathers - passed with flying colors!
I wasn't really surprised. I've taught at several seminaries in recent years, and I'm impressed with the caliber and commitment of the young men I've met. The next generation of priests is studying, not just to pass an exam, but to serve our Lord and His people - by preaching the Scriptures the way they were inspired to be preached.
This next generation needs our support. But it's not just seminarians. All of our priests and deacons need our support. You and I have to help ensure that these men have the resources they need to to read, pray, and preach more faithfully and fruitfully.
That's why we've launched a new initiative, "The Seminarian's Bookshelf," where we're trying to get good books and resources in the hands of seminarians across the country. Read about this more on our website (see "What's New").
That's why, later this month, the St. Paul Center is also co-sponsoring with St. Vincent's Seminary a special four-day workshop to help priests, deacons, and seminarians go deeper into Scripture.
As with everything the Center does, we're in this together. We can't do these things without you.
June 2006
