Propaedeutic Stage
The Propaedeutic Stage at Notre Dame Seminary focuses on providing new seminarians with foundational tools for priestly formation. This initial stage emphasizes discernment, prayer, study, fraternity, and openness to formation, helping seminarians integrate the four dimensions of priestly development while primarily fostering growth in the spiritual and human dimensions.
Key Elements of the Program at NDS:
Living Arrangements
- Seminarians reside in a separate space on the seminary grounds, known as the Benson House. It is a space set apart to form a distinct community from the main house.
- This setting fosters fraternity and separation from the Major Seminary.
Daily Schedule (Horarium)
- A unique daily horarium structured around Liturgy of the Hours, Mass, Adoration, Class Time, and Personal Recreation.
- Fosters devotion to the Eucharist and the Blessed Mother.
- Develops personal discipline of prayer, study, exercise, and recreation.
Retreats and Discernment
- Seminarians participate in multiple retreats, culminating in an 8-day silent retreat at the stage’s end.
- These retreats enhance awareness of God’s presence and prepare for future discernment and conversion.
Social Media Fast
- At the program’s onset and again after the mid-year mark, seminarians surrender phones and devices, enabling reflection without distractions.
- Social media is gradually reintroduced alongside formation on its virtuous use through formation conferences and various reflection materials.
Broad Curriculum
- Courses are distinct from the main seminary curriculum and follow a unique schedule.
- Topics include:
- Scripture
- Human Formation and Affective Maturity
- Spiritual Tradition of the Catholic Church
- Interpersonal and Group Dynamics
- **Spanish language studies for pastoral ministry are also offered at the request of the diocese or individual seminarian.**
- Formation conferences also serve to inform the Intellectual Formation of the Propaedeutic seminarian. They focus on topics, such as:
- “Introduction to the Spiritual Wisdom of the Church Fathers”
- “Principles of Affective Maturity”
- “Effective Leadership”
- “Interpersonal Relationships and True Friendship”
- “Human Sexuality: Masculinity and Femininity”
Formation Team
- Priest Director:
- Resides near seminarians, providing daily guidance and a priestly presence.
- Handles permissions and special needs.
- Formation Advisor and Spiritual Director:
- Each seminarian meets biweekly with their assigned advisors for formation and spiritual guidance.