The Implications of Postmodernism to Seminary Formation

Abstract

Introduction

            This study aims to draw the implications of postmodern moments to the seminary formation. It is confronted with the difficult question of harmonizing the very idea of postmodernism with seminary formation. What troubles this research is the fact that postmodernism is understood as the period characterized by openness to meanings and understanding, an openness that extends to aspects of life such as culture and authority. It is characterized by subjectivism, individual legitimation, self-regulation, freedom and absence of authority, and one particular system. The principle of postmodernism is that it is not governed by pre-established rules, and cannot be judged according to a determining judgment, by applying familiar categories.[1] On the other hand, seminary formation is a systematic program, characterized by strict observance, authority, and discipline and geared towards training the candidates for priesthood and religious life. It is result-oriented.

            This research which has some elements of theology considers the very situation and finds the rigidity of the authority of seminary formation at stake with postmodernism. How can the notion of postmodernism and seminary formation which is unconventional be reconciled? Can the formation program succeed without the cooperation of the candidates? Can someone’s will and character be mastered or dominated by another person?