Purpose: The Office for Priests is to serve the diocesan presbyterate according to the Directory for the Life and Ministry of Priests published by the Congregation for the Clergy. The director is an ex-officio member of the Presbyteral Council and is assisted in his work by a designated group of priests.

Goals: 1. To foster priestly spirituality.

2. To assist priests in their on-going formation including its human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral dimensions.

3. To minister to active, inactive and retired priests and to promote their ministry to one another.

Objectives: 1. To provide retreat and other opportunities and information for the spiritual enrichment and pastoral development of priests.

2. To plan and coordinate the annual diocesan sponsored convocation of priests and other opportunities for in-service and the ongoing formation of priests (e.g., days of prayer, assemblies and workshops).

3. To encourage priestly fraternity and participation in Jesus Caritas or priest support groups.

4. To provide opportunities specifically intended for:

- priests in their first year of ministry;
- priests ordained through 5 years;
- priests needing inculturation assistance;
- priests who are new pastors;
- priests approaching retirement;
- priests in retirement.

5. To assist priests in reference to:

- sabbatical programs;
- language studies;
- advanced studies.

6. To assist priests in seeking confidential professional counseling.

7. To assist the bishop in the pastoral care of priests.