Propaedeutic Studies
A Foundation for Priestly Formation
Aquinas College is honored to partner with the Diocese of Nashville in the formation of seminarians during the propaedeutic stage of priestly preparation. Rooted in the Church’s vision for priestly formation, the Certificate of Propaedeutic Studies provides an intentional year of spiritual, human, intellectual, and pastoral preparation before the beginning of seminary studies.
Through prayer, community life, academic formation, and personal growth, seminarians are given the opportunity to strengthen their relationship with Christ, deepen their understanding of their vocation, and develop the habits necessary for future priestly formation.
The Church’s Vision for the Propaedeutic Stage
The propaedeutic stage is a time of foundational formation. It allows seminarians to step away from the pace and distractions of ordinary life in order to cultivate a deeper interior life, greater self-knowledge, and a stronger sense of fraternity.
At Aquinas College, this year serves as a time of intentional preparation, helping men establish the spiritual and human foundations upon which future seminary formation will build.
Through the rhythm of prayer, study, community life, and service, seminarians are invited to grow in freedom, maturity, and openness to God’s will.
Formation of the Whole Person
The Certificate of Propaedeutic Studies seeks to foster growth in every dimension of formation.
Spiritual Formation
Daily prayer, participation in the sacramental life of the Church, spiritual direction, and opportunities for reflection help seminarians deepen their friendship with Christ and strengthen their life of discipleship.
Human Formation
Community living, personal responsibility, healthy relationships, and self-awareness contribute to the development of the human qualities necessary for effective priestly ministry.
Intellectual Formation
Coursework introduces seminarians to the intellectual life of the Church while strengthening the academic skills needed for future theological studies. Students engage important questions concerning faith, culture, philosophy, communication, and the human person.
Pastoral Formation
Through service, mentorship, and engagement with the life of the Church, seminarians begin developing the pastoral awareness and generosity that characterize priestly ministry.
A Community of Prayer and Fraternity
One of the defining features of the propaedeutic year is the opportunity to live and grow alongside other men discerning a vocation to the priesthood.
Life together fosters fraternity, mutual support, accountability, and friendships that often continue throughout seminary formation and priestly life. Shared prayer, study, meals, recreation, and service provide opportunities for growth both individually and as a community.
Why Aquinas College?
As a Catholic college sponsored by the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia Congregation, Aquinas College brings together faithful Catholic teaching, academic excellence, and a rich tradition of formation.
The College’s partnership with dioceses reflects a shared commitment to preparing future priests who are intellectually capable, spiritually grounded, pastorally attentive, and devoted to serving the People of God.
Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Aquinas provides a supportive environment where seminarians can focus on discernment and formation while benefiting from the resources of a vibrant Catholic academic community.
Serving the Church
Aquinas College considers participation in the formation of future priests one of its most important services to the Church.
By assisting dioceses in the propaedeutic formation of seminarians, the College contributes to the preparation of future shepherds who will proclaim the Gospel, celebrate the sacraments, and guide the faithful for years to come.
We are grateful for the trust placed in us by our diocese, and we remain committed to supporting the Church’s mission through faithful and comprehensive formation.
