Selection Process - Diocesan Selection Conference

The purpose of this conference is to enable a panel of priests and lay people, - who are given a copy of the candidate’s application form, essay, references (excluding Medical and Psychological Reports), and the reflection of the Vocation’s Director on the journey of enquiry – to give their final recommendations to the Bishop as to whether or not the applicant should be accepted for seminary training and formation.

This is usually held at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Newcastle, in April/May.

Candidates are asked to arrive at the Cathedral for 12.30pm.

The Conference follows the following format:

12.30pm. Candidates and Panel Members meet informally.

1.00pm. All enjoy an excellent lunch together.

2.00pm. Interviews begin:

• usually conducted in alphabetical order.
• of 30-45 minutes duration.
• applicants are invited to respond to questions from each of the panellists.
• applicants invited to add any further information or ask any questions they wish to do so.
• applicants are informed that they will be contacted by the Bishop to meet him privately and receive his decision on their application.

The Panel then deliberate on their recommendations, which are then sent to the Bishop, who will make his final decision.