Ask Our Men In Black: The FAQ

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Can one be too old to think about the priesthood?

If someone has lived an immoral life can they still become a priest?

Could someone be a priest if they were married, are divorced and had the marriage annulled?

Would a widower with children be considered for the priesthood?

I'm 14 and I feel VERY strongly I am being called. But I did some bad things in life and worry I'll make a bad priest or be rejected in a seminary. Advice?

How does one discern a true calling from scrupulosity? I married last year, after what I thought had been a good discernment period, where I talked and worked with other priests who knew me, several of whom said, "Priesthood is not for you." Having had minor OCD and some scruples, since a few months into the marriage, I have questioned whether I made the right decision to marry. I keep thinking that I made a mistake in not going to the seminary, even though this is what my mom wanted and some other priests thought I'd be an excellent priest. Have there been other married men who have left their marriages because their call to priesthood never left them? Is it permissible? How do you know if this is TRULY God's will?

Dear Father, I left the seminary for a few years and now wish to return. I must admit that I made a few mistakes in my life and worry that they will come back and haunt me. One such mistake was having sex a few months back. Yet, I still feel called by God to serve Him and His Church. Any Suggestions?

I have heard that there are some physical disabilities that prevent men from being ordained. Can you give examples.