Good Shepherd Society members have the unique privilege of directly impacting the future of the Church in Central Illinois through their prayers, financial assistance, and loving support of our seminarians. At the same time, Good Shepherd members interact directly with the bishop, vocations team, seminarians, and each other in an atmosphere of friendship and Christian community.  

Members agree to be advocates for priestly vocations. This includes praying for our seminarians, learning the journey of a seminarian, and financially contributing to the Seminarian Education Fund. To facilitate this, we suggest a minimum contribution of $1,500 each calendar year (January 1 to December 31).  

Interested Catholics can fill out a membership form here.  (hyperlink to Acceptiva form) 

The Good Shepherd Society’s contributions are used to support men answering God’s call to the priesthood; specifically going to the Seminarian Education Fund.  Each year of formation (tuition, books, housing, meals, stipends for living, healthcare insurance) costs approximately $38,000 for one seminarian. The need for your support is great as we are blessed with 16 men currently in seminary.  

Consider the cost of educating and providing for 16 young adults in college all at the same time; the cost is tremendous! The current overall cost of support for our diocesan seminarians is approximately $600,000 annually. That number continues to rise with the increase in costs and inflation. As we pray for growth in priestly vocations with a goal of 40 seminarians, the diocese is preparing to meet the financial need of men responding to the call.   

The Parish Tithe, which replaced the Annual Catholic Services Appeal in 2021, contributes towards seminarian expenses, however the need is great and the tithe from each parish in the diocese does not fully cover the mission and ministries of the diocese, including seminarian education. Your leadership gift will provide critical funding to support each of our 16 seminarians and ensure our financial ability to continue inviting men into the priesthood! 

Yes! Contributions may be made annually, semi-annually, or quarterly. Consider budgeting $125.00 monthly via recurring credit card or EFT to be a member of the Good Shepherd Society.   

Pledge your support here. (hyperlink to Acceptiva form) 

Meet our Seminarians