Trent orders diocesan seminaries
About this date: The year dates this event or document, not the beginning of every practice it describes.
Trent's twenty-third session directs dioceses to establish colleges for the education and religious formation of future clergy.
Historical context
The reform connects pastoral competence with sustained training and a funding structure. A council's requirement did not mean every diocese could implement it immediately.
Key points
- Bishops supervise the proposed colleges.
- The decree gives priority to poorer candidates while permitting wealthier students at their own expense.
- The curriculum includes Scripture, grammar, singing, and sacramental ministry.
People
- Council fathers
Sources and further reading
- Trent, Twenty-Third Session
Detailed provisions for clerical colleges, teaching, oversight, and financing.