What we are?

First, and foremost, Pallottines.  We have already mentioned what the Pallottines are. Very briefly, we have related what we do at the ABC (Work and Formation Community). We have not yet mentioned how we are organized, etc. But let us start at the beginning…

Our Studies

We study at the Philosophisch-Theologischen Hochschule Vallendar (PTHV). This college is under the tutelage of the Pallottines, but is also open to other students. At this time, approximately 120 students are registered here.

Before Pallottines come to Vallendar to study, they experience a two year introductory period into the life of the Society in Untermerzbach/Unterfranken near Bamberg. At the end of this time, the candidate makes his promise to live according to the rule of the Society of Catholic Apostolate for the duration of one year. This is mentioned as an aside, as it has no direct connection to the ABC. We return to the studies.

As in almost all other Masters programs, the one in Catholic Theology is divided into a basic and a major area of study. In the so-called Pre-diploma (first four semesters), studies focus primarily on the philosophic subjects of Logic, Epistomology, Anthropology of Philosophy, Metaphysics, History of Philosophy, Ethics, Social Ethics, etc. These are complimented by introductions to the Old and New Testaments and, of course, languages (Latin, Greek, and Hebrew). In the next six semesters, the Diploma, follow the study of deeper theological issues: from liturgy through exegesis to dogmatics and pastoral theology. This list is by no means all-inclusive.

Practicum positions are provided in the semester breaks. These can be carried out in many different fields of ministry (parish, youth work, social projects, formation).

The Diploma Program is usually followed by a “Freisemester”, a term of studies at an institution outside of the Hochschule.  The purpose and reason for this  time, is to allow students to become acquainted with other colleges, and thus other theologies. One could choose to attend  another college in Germany, but study at a foreign college is also an option (for example, in India, Italy, or Canada).

Normally, the studies in Theology span ten semesters. That means, after five years of serious and solid study, and successfully completed exams, one has earned a Master of  Theology Degree. Now, one also stands before final promises to the life of the Society, promises which had previously been limited to one or two year periods.

Ordination to the Deaconate and the Priesthood are normally the next steps.  Because Pallottines leave the ABC at the conclusion of their studies, to embrace their new field of activity, this also does not belong to our topic of discussion.

Our Community Life

A community and a family have one commonality: if one does not give oneself to it fully, it cannot function or grow. All community life thrives from involvement. We are no heroes in the matters of living community, but we at least strive to work on it.

How many siblings do you have? Two, three or more? Now, imagine yourself with a family of fifteen siblings… That will give you an idea of what it means to live in community. And, as in every family, there are not only sunny days.

But looking at the whole picture, life in community is a definite help. One knows one is not alone. Sharing is not just giving the other a piece of your cake, but joys and sorrows are also shared. To live, pray and work together, to enjoy or rejoice with others, to exchange our ideas, hopes, dreams, to exert ourselves, all this is an integral part of community life.

Structure makes many things easier (and some, more difficult).  Our ABC has structure too.  Although, or maybe because, there are clear roles, the basis of our community is communication.  Discussions, joint planning and finding solutions together, are principles by which our system functions.  The director of the ABC is Father Siegfried Modenbach, SAC.  His responsibility is as rector of the community.  Father Bernhard Scheloske, SAC, is the spiritual director/companion.  The coordinator representing the students is the work prefect.  His duties are to divide the necessary daily chores among our group.

To be a Pallottine

As members of a religious community, we have consciously chosen a different lifestyle.  At our ordination, we promise obedience, poverty, celibacy, perseverance/steadfastness, joint property, and selfless service in the love of Christ.  In this spirit, we want to enter into the world around us and face the challenges of the times.

Here too, we are not alone.  As Pallottines, we are part of a much larger reality: the Union of Catholic Apostolate.  The Union consists of men and women, laity and ordained, who, in the spirit of St. Vincent Pallotti, desire to be present to all people.

Perhaps you would like more information.  In this case, look under:

To read more about Saint Vincent Pallotti:

-        a brief description of Vincent Pallotti

If you are interested in the work of the Pallottines:

                - in Germany  (Linklist – simply click on the name of a house)

                - World wide linklist