The Propaedeutic Stage
The Propaedeutic Stage serves as the first experience in formation for the Catholic priesthood – assisting the new seminarian in the initial development of a priestly identity. This Stage offers initial formation in all dimensions of priestly formation:
Human, Spiritual, Intellectual and Pastoral
The Propaedeutic Stage focuses on life in community and strengthening the human and spiritual foundations of each student (PPF6 #32). The name of the program Anima Christi represents the spiritual posture of humility and docility seminarians seek to embody entrusting themselves completely to God in order to live in intimate, unceasing communion with the Trinity.
HUMAN
Fraternity | Workshops | Self knowledge | Social Intelligence | Emotional Intelligence | Time Management | Communication Skills | Outdoor Activities
Seminarians will find a dedicated community life meant to foster prayer, discernment, and personal growth. They will live a rule of life distinct from the other seminarians on campus with greater space for human and spiritual growth.
SPIRITUAL
Prayer | Retreats | Spiritual Direction | Contemplation | Scripture Meditation
Seminarians will develop a rhythm of prayer through daily Mass, lectio divina, and the Liturgy of the Hours. Periods of silence and detachment from media devices, as well as the accompaniment of their formator, spiritual director, and counselor will help each man hear God’s call and grow in freedom
INTELLECTUAL
ANIMA CHRISTI:
Familiarity with Christian Doctrine | Form Habits of Study | Spark Intellectual Curiosity
Intellectual formation, including learning to read the Sacred Scriptures, the documents of Vatican II, and Catechism of the Catholic Church, will help the men to form habits of study and spark intellectual curiosity and the love of learning.
PASTORAL
Mission Trips | Parish and Ministry Experience | Develop the Capacity for Self-Gift | Opening Oneself to Differing Cultures
Regular apostolic works as well as mission trips will help them to form hearts moved by pastoral charity.