Those who can study in a seminary are young men who intend to enter the priesthood. “Priests, and especially diocesan Bishops, are to have concern that men of a mature age who consider themselves called to the sacred ministries are prudently assisted in word and deed and duly prepared.” (Canon, 233). 

Contrary to the common notion, we do not spend all day praying. We have a balanced life here; we have time for study, for prayer and for recreation. We study, play and pray. Our curriculum is not exclusive to studying the Bible and praying but also includes general subject matters such as mathematics, sciences, history etc. We are under a formation in order for us to become good and holy priests someday and if otherwise to become a good Christian. We are in a constant discernment of our true vocation in life, on where does God is leading us. 

Let us remember that priesthood is a gift of God. As what Jesus said “Many are called but few are chosen.” (Mat. 22:14) It is our reality that not all who entered seminary becomes a priest at the end of his formation years. That is why we need to pray and asked God that He may sent more “laborers to his harvest”. This is the purpose of formation and discernment to guide us to our real vocation in life. 

Let us answer this question using the Seminary Manual of Rules and Values. On page 17, of General principles, letter “F”, paragraph “f” of the Seminary Manual on the rules of Family Obligations: Going out/ Visiting Times says “Throughout the seminary formation, positive growth in celibacy and commitment to vocation precludes any relationship that may be construed by the public as “dating”. Courting has no place in the life of a seminarian. The celibate priest is dedicated to the love and service of all people, and therefore, a lifestyle realistically appropriate for the priesthood cannot be developed if the seminarian engages in an exclusive relationship with a woman”. It is therefore appropriate that should a seminarian fall into such a relationship he shall remain open and trusting to the guidance of his formators.