An authentic human experience

The JPII Centre is a unique centre for human formation and development. Formerly the original gatehouse, this unoccupied lodge on our grounds was transformed into a separate yet on-site space for the accompaniment of seminarians. Our students named it themselves.

This is a space where seminarians do not have to pretend and can be completely themselves in a space bound by confidentiality. In these conditions, they can grow in awareness of who they are and who they are with others. They can also use this space to reflect on the pastoral experiences that they are having and learn how to reflect.

Fundamentally, we want seminarians to have an authentic human experience and we believe that this happens when they experience that they are cared for. All of our seminarians receive monthly accompaniment here.

For seminarians

Our experience is that, over time, seminarians grow to trust us and understand that they can relax and be themselves here. They usually come to find this kind of Christian accountability restorative. Once, a seminarian even said, ‘I call the JPII Centre the third chapel!’

This is not a formal teaching space as many experience formation to be. This is their space to share as they feel comfortable, and with an equal.

As St Thomas Aquinas put it, 'grace builds on nature, it does not supplant it', so we know that the more we can help seminarians to know themselves, the better equipped they will be for ministry.

For priests

The JPII Centre also serves priests. Many priests desire accompaniment and we feel called to respond to this need.

We get priesthood. We understand what it is like to be a priest in today's world. We are creating spaces for priests to be welcomed, accepted and heard. It’s that simple.

The JPII Network is a group of counsellors who serve Catholic clergy. The Network connects priests to counsellors in their locality. If you are a priest seeking pastoral accompaniment, they would love to hear from you. Equally, you can get in touch directly with the JPII Centre.

The JPII Network

Get in touch

Contact the JPII Centre Lead

Email pete.smallwood@oscott.org

Visit Us

Want to experience some history?  Our tours have been running for over a decade, removing the mystery of the college and giving the general public a sense of what we do here.

Our tours

Speak to someone

Talking helps. If you are curious about or interested in the Catholic priesthood, we can connect you with a member of our team or a seminarian who would be happy to answer your questions and share about this way of life.

Discover more