Portuguese dioceses promote seminaries during prayer week

Catholic dioceses in Portugal are observing a week dedicated to seminaries, running until November 8, under the theme “Community that prays, Seminary that flourishes.” The initiative aims to raise awareness regarding the importance of priestly vocations and the formation of future priests.

In the Diocese of Guarda, Bishop José Miguel Pereira released a video message calling for renewed commitment to prayer and support for seminarists. He highlighted the work of a new formation team composed of priests and laypeople and encouraged families and parish groups to engage with the seminary as a central part of the diocese.

In Porto, the Diocesan Secretariat for Vocation Pastoral released a video titled “Inside the Seminary” to showcase the daily routines of students for the 2026/2027 pastoral year. The production covers academic studies at the Catholic University of Portugal, prayer, music, sports, and community life. The Major Seminary of Our Lady of the Conception is currently operating temporarily in Vilar due to renovation works and hosts 30 students from the dioceses of Porto, Aveiro, Angra, Coimbra, and Vila Real.