Some young men come then to live at the seminary for one or two weeks to observe and to have a more precise idea of what it is about. In certain western countries, the priest has ceased to be one of the notable or recognized persons in society and this, it seems, has played a role in lessening the number of vocations. Sometimes the social status of the priest is still a motive which can be added to others, but one could not say that it is the only factor. The formation at the seminary ought to purify this motivation. But it is true that the priest is Abouna , that is to say that the priest is for all the world.
Nothing happens, in certain parishes, without going through the pastor.
I think that the idea of a notable or recognized person ought to be baptized. By that I mean that it must be understood as a service. Abouna ought to be considered as someone who is well placed to serve better. Those that come from the minor seminary after they pass the bac or exam to complete their secondary studies which is about half of the group are usually around 18 or 19 years old. The other half who have done university studies or were already working are usually around 23 to 25 years old when they begin.