PONTIFICIVM COLLEGIVM GEORGIANVM PONTIFICAL GEORGIAN COLLEGE ПАПСКИЙ ГЕОРГИАНСКИЙ КОЛЛЕДЖ The principal theological seminary of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church MINOR SEMINARY OUTLINE OF STUDIES (Diplomate of Sacred Theology) 2025 N.b. Programmes subject to change without notice on this page. Postulants and seminarians should consult college administration for official information. Speed of progress may vary by student. Neither academic degrees nor ordination are guaranteed. Academic degrees and ordination are only conferred after all qualifications have been met and upon thorough and successful examination by ecclesiastical authorities.   The following outline presents the standard course of studies for progression through the Minor Seminary. In keeping with the competency-based formation of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church, seminarians progress not by time alone but by demonstrated mastery of the knowledge, virtues, and practical skills appropriate to their state of life and ministry. University students (that is, students at another institution of higher learning) may undertake the Minor Seminary program concurrently with their academic studies, and those who have already completed a bachelor’s degree may advance at an accelerated pace with the approval of their formation director. The Minor Seminary is both a school and a spiritual house: a place where a man discerns the stirrings of vocation, learns the foundations of the Faith, and begins living as a servant of Christ and His Church. Under the guidance of their formation directors, seminarians advance at an individualized pace, never rushed, never idled, until the necessary competencies for each level are clearly and confidently demonstrated. The readings and resources given in the LMS for each course may be augmented or varied by the seminarian's formation director. The aim of all studies is to prepare the seminarian intellectually, spiritually, and pastorally for admission to the clerical state and eventual transition to Major Seminary. POSTULANT PHASE The Postulant Phase is a period of initial discernment, prayer, and observation before formal admission. The postulant is introduced to the rhythms of seminary life, the daily office, and the expectations of clerical formation. No formal coursework is required, though readings and spiritual direction are strongly encouraged. This is the time when a man asks, quietly and honestly: “Lord, is this truly Your call for me?” ADMISSION Upon admission to the Minor Seminary, the seminarian is vested with the clerical cassock as a sign of belonging, discipline, and dedication to the path ahead. He now begins formal preparation for the clerical state. LEVEL 1 Level 1 forms the bedrock of clerical identity. The seminarian begins to master the essential teachings of the Faith and gains his first structured understanding of the Divine Liturgy. Admission Requirements: Minimum six months as a minor seminarian Completion of at least two academic years of undergraduate study (by credits; may be waived as appropriate by seminary officials) Demonstrated growth in discipline, prayer, and vocational seriousness CA101 - In-depth Study of the Catechism A comprehensive exploration of the doctrines, moral teachings, and sacramental life of the Church. The seminarian learns to articulate the Faith clearly and accurately, first to himself, and then to others. Emphasis is placed on the unity of Orthodox and Catholic tradition within the heritage of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church. CA102 - Introduction to the Divine Liturgy An introductory study of the structure, theology, spirituality, and symbolism of the Sacred Liturgy. This course cultivates the seminarian’s ability to pray the liturgy with understanding and reverence, preparing him for future practical service at the altar. LEVEL 2 Level 2 deepens the seminarian’s understanding of Scripture and Church history, preparing him for admission to the clerical state through First Tonsure. Admission Requirements Minimum six months following Level 1 Completion of at least three cumulative academic years of undergraduate study (by credits; may be waived as appropriate by seminary officials) Demonstrated stability in prayer, discipline, and seminary life CA201 - Introduction to Biblical Studies A guided introduction to the world of Scripture: its language, context, inspiration, and interpretation. Seminarians learn the basic tools of exegesis and the structure of salvation history, building skills they will continue to develop in Major Seminary. TH100 - The History and Life of the Church A survey of the Church’s life from the apostolic age to modern times, with special attention to the formation of doctrine, the growth of liturgy, and the continuity of the Apostolic tradition. This course helps the seminarian situate himself not merely in a present vocation, but within the entire living history of God’s people. - CONFERRAL OF FIRST TONSURE AND ADMISSION TO THE CLERICAL STATE - Having demonstrated readiness, spiritual, academic, and personal, the seminarian receives the First Tonsure, entering the clerical state.He is now a cleric of the Church: a man set apart for service, prayer, and obedience in the path toward the Holy Orders. LEVEL 3 Level 3 equips the newly tonsured cleric with the practical skills and liturgical foundations needed for his first minor order: the Order of Porter. Admission Requirements Minimum six months as a tonsured cleric Completion of a full approved four-year undergraduate degree (may be waived as appropriate by seminary officials) Consistent participation in the liturgical and spiritual life of the seminary LT100 - Introduction to Liturgy A practical and theological introduction to service at the altar. This course teaches the cleric how to function as an altar server with confidence, competence, and reverence. This includes understanding vestments, sacred vessels, processions, ceremonial movement, and proper liturgical etiquette. The seminarian learns not only what to do, but why he does it. This earlytaste of hands-on liturgy prepares him for further service, eventually at the diaconal and priestly levels. - ORDINATION AS PORTER - Upon the successful completion of all Level 3 competencies, the cleric is ordained Porter—the first step in the sacred Minor Orders. He assumes new responsibilities in the Church’s worship and life, entering more deeply into the service of the altar and the people of God. [Pontifical Georgian College Main Page]   DISCLAIMER AND LEGAL NOTICES