“Having been at the Royal English College of St Alban in Valladolid for two weeks now, I’m well settled and my seminary formation is very much underway!”
I’m joined by four brother Seminarians and – together with our four college staff – we make up a close-knit community of young men eagerly discerning the Lord’s will for our lives. We come from as far afield as Gibraltar in the east, and the Irish Diocese of Elphin in the west; and range in age from the youngest at 17, and the eldest at 28.
Life in the seminary is based around praying the Divine Office in community, celebrating daily Mass in the beautiful college chapel and a great deal of lectures in the “four pillars” of formation laid out by Pope St John Paul II in Pastores Dabo Vobis which are Human, Spiritual, Pastoral and Intellectual Formation.
We’re also taught Spanish by two highly capable lecturers from Valladolid University, and learn a great deal about the fascinating culture of Spain.
The weather has been unfailingly warm and sunny, and we’ve had plenty of opportunity to explore the City, taste marvellous food, visit beautiful churches and places of historical interest, and even watch Valladolid Football Team play at home (even if they unfortunately lost!).
I’m keeping my good home of Menevia in my prayers and I’ve asked Our Lady Vulnerata to intercede for the Diocese.
I greatly appreciate the opportunity I’ve been given to come to this incredible place, and would like to thank everyone for their support, especially their prayers.
Please do continue to pray for me!
God bless!
Greg.