Brief Introduction to Cohort-Generational Models and 4-generation model of US priesthood. content source: from web Designed and created by vr4Uglobal team (www.vr4uglobal.com)

1. Priestly Generations
in Dialogue
Archdiocese of New Orleans
August 2012 Convocation
Dominic Perri
Fr. Stephen Fichter

2. We have been able to use a model of priestly
generations (cohorts) to help us better understand
different generations within the presbyterate.
We have come to a new understanding and respect
for the differences that exist among the different
priestly generations in the presbyterate.
We have conducted our conversations in a spirit of
mutual respect in which all feel they have been
heard and their experiences have been honored.

3. Brief Introduction to Cohort-
Generational Models
Explore what happens when
different generations interact
Apply generational thinking to
Church and ministry
Will begin with a 4-generation
model of US history
Followed by 4-generation model
of US priesthood
Not clear how well this applies
to non-US populations. Not
enough research available

4. The dates for the generations
(cohorts) are not hard/fast
The key piece is the shared
experience
If you feel you identify with the
experience of a generation, you
probably belong there

5. A generation’s unique identity is
shaped by the significant events and
people that influenced them during
their formative years
Each generation is heavily influenced
by the experience of the previous
generations

7. Vatican II (1962-1965)
Key Question – When did your seminary
formation take place with respect to
Vatican II?

8. Created 4 priestly ordination
cohorts
1. Pre-Vatican II (ordained before
1964)
2. Vatican II (ordained 1964 to 1977)
3. Post-Vatican II (ordained 1978 to
1991)
4. Millennial (ordained 1992 to
present)

10. Ordained by 1964 (midpoint of Council)
Already formed before Vatican II
At least 72 years old (average 80+)
25% of those in our 2009 study
Characteristics:
Attracted to Institutional Church
Identify strongly with Church structures
Becoming a priest was often a matter of pride for
family and community

12. Ordained between 1964 and1977
Formed during turbulent years
Age 59-71 (majority in their 60s)
33% of those in our 2009 study
Characteristics:
Questioned institutions and structures
Rebelled against and tried to reform what they
saw as overly clerical culture
Focus on building community

14. Ordained between1978 and1991
Ordained in first half of JPII’s service
Age: 45- 58 (some are even older)
Many entered seminary after college
23% of those in our 2009 study
Characteristics:
Most were children during Council
By the time they arrived in seminary, ideas of
Council were in place

16. Ordained in1992 or later
Often called John Paul II priests
Age 24 and 44 (again, some are older)
18% of those in our 2009 study
Characteristics:
Raised when Church was in decline (schools,
hospitals, religious orders)
Wear collar as a witness; more likely to see
themselves as “men set apart”

17. The End