Embracing a New Chapter in
my Life: Julian Pinto

As I prepare to embark on a transformative journey at Allen Hall in London, I find myself filled with anticipation, excitement, and a deep sense of purpose. Allen Hall represents not just a place of learning, but moreover a community where faith, service, and one’s sense of vocation come together to shape the future servant-leaders of our Church. 

For those discerning a call to the priesthood, entering seminary is akin to embarking on a voyage. I feel I am being called by Jesus to become his priest, and have responded with a resounding ‘yes’, but I must leave it to Him (through the direction and advice of my seminary formators, my Bishop and his Vocations Director) as to how I’m to journey over these coming years. My hopes for seminary are rooted in a desire for a rigorous theological education, a continuous growth in my Catholic spirituality, and a holistic development in my human and pastoral formation. I am looking forward to engaging with a broad curriculum that challenges and deepens my understanding of the scriptures rooted in a community of faith that has grown down the centuries to the current day. The comprehensive programme of academic studies and overall formation will not only equip me with the knowledge needed for my future ministry, but also help me to discern and refine my own sense of a calling. 

Moreover, I anticipate that Allen Hall will offer a supportive environment for my personal and spiritual development. This will include opportunities for quiet reflection before the Blessed Sacrament, community prayer and fellowship that will strengthen my relationship with God and with my peers. Building meaningful connections with fellow seminarians and our mentors is vital, as these relationships will provide both support and positive challenges throughout my time at seminary. 

 

My Preparation for the Journey 
Preparation for seminary involves more than just packing books and organising schedules; it requires a holistic approach to readiness! Academically, I’ve been engaging in preparatory reading and theological study to ensure a strong foundation. I’ve also sought advice from current seminarians and clergy to gain insight into the demands and rhythms of seminary life. 

On a personal level, I have been reflecting on my own spiritual practices and commitments. I’ve developed a structured approach to prayer (including the praying of the Hours, the regular recitation of the Rosary, and periods of quiet contemplation), the reading of sacred scripture (plus spiritual reading from the writings of the saints and church fathers), and periods of quiet reflection, which are essential to maintaining my sense of balance and spiritual focus. I’ve also been considering how to manage the various demands of seminary life, from the coursework to personal responsibilities in-house, and how to nurture my general well-being throughout this period of change. 

Emotionally and spiritually, I am bracing myself for the challenges and joys that lie ahead. Seminary will undoubtedly be demanding, pushing me to confront my own limitations and to grow in ways that I can’t yet fully anticipate. However, I am confident that this period of formation will be profoundly rewarding, helping me to emerge as a more holy, effective and compassionate servant of God and His Church. 

 

Looking Forward 
As I stand on the threshold of this new chapter, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to study and grow at Allen Hall. I’d like to praise God for speaking through Fr. Petroc, my Parish Priest, when he asked me the first time I met him, “Do you ever think of returning back to Seminary?”. This question hounded me for months until I enquired with Fr. Ralph, whom I’d like to thank God for, who has been a never-ending source of support and guidance through the entire discernment and application process. I thank God also for Fr. Jonathan and Fr. Albert who have been sources of inspiration and wisdom through my spiritual ups and downs. I praise God for the Selection Conference Committee and Canon Paul for, despite my weaknesses and unworthiness, accepting me for formation in the Diocese of Plymouth. Last, but not the least, I thank God for all the parishioners of the Sacred Heart and Blessed Sacrament, Exeter, who have been praying for me and my vocation. May God bless you all! 

In the coming months, I look forward to sharing my experiences and insights with you, and I hope to bring back reflections that will be valuable for others considering a similar path.  

May this new chapter be a time of profound growth and transformation, and may it ultimately lead to a deeper understanding of God’s call in my life. 

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