The Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix has made history in Arizona by opening its first full seminary, Nazareth Seminary. This new facility will provide the opportunity for men to study and train to become priests within the diocese itself, offering them a chance to stay close to their families and community.
Previously, aspiring priests in Arizona had to travel out of state to complete their higher education. They often had to go to places like Denver after living in the Nazareth House, which was established in 2019 by Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted. However, the diocese recognized the importance of community and personal growth for these men, leading them to create a seminary program within their own borders.
Bishop John P. Dolan expressed his belief that priests are formed in homes, not institutions, and by keeping the seminarians within their local community, they can honor their love for family and provide a nurturing environment. This new program will be offered in four stages at various locations in the Valley.
The first stage, Nazareth House, was established in 2019 and is located near St. Gregory Parish in Phoenix. The second stage will take place at the Campus of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Scottsdale, which opened its doors in August 2023. The third stage will be set at St. Mary’s Basilica in Phoenix and is expected to open in the fall of 2024. Finally, the fourth stage will be situated at St. Joseph’s House and is set to open in the fall of 2026.
This expansion of the Diocese of Phoenix seems like a natural progression, as it is currently the seventh-largest diocese in the country. By providing a local seminary program, the diocese hopes to foster personal growth and support for aspiring priests, while also strengthening the Catholic community in Arizona.
With the opening of Nazareth Seminary, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix is demonstrating its commitment to nurturing and developing future priests within Arizona. This landmark move will offer aspiring priests the opportunity to receive their education and training while remaining close to their families and local community—a monumental step forward for the Catholic Church in Arizona.
