Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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OPTATAM TOTIUS

Decree of the Second Vatican Council on the training of priests. Aimed at the desired renewal of the whole Church, which "depends in great part upon a priestly ministry animated by the spirit of Christ." The document centers on fostering good priestly ministry animated by the spirit of Christ." The document centers on fostering good priestly vocations, giving more attention to spiritual training, revising ecclesiastical studies, preparing for pastoral work, and continuing studies after ordination. Special attention is given to developing priests whose sense of the Church will find expression in a humble and filial attachment to the Vicar of Christ and, after ordination, in their loyal co-operation with bishops and harmony with their fellow priests (October 28, 1965).