With any vocation, a person and their families encounter questions. This section hopes to answer many of these questions.
Q: Can seminarians have a car?
A: Yes. Seminarians are expected to have a car. One component to the seminary formation process is pastoral experience in the diocese. However, motorcycles and motor bikes are not permitted on the seminary property.
Q: Can seminarians have visitors?
A: Yes. Family and friends of seminarians can come to visit. However, in respect to the other seminarians, family and friends cannot enter the dormitory except when permitted.
Q: Can seminarians leave the seminary property?
A: Yes. Seminarians are permitted to leave the seminary property. Seminarians are expected to attend class, participate in community events, fulfill community obligations, and complete apostolic work. A seminarian is permitted to leave the property if he has no prior obligations. All seminarians must return by curfew; curfew is 12:00AM from Sunday to Thursday and 1:00AM on Friday and Saturday.
Q: Is there a curfew?
A: Yes. Seminarians are expected to return to the seminary property before 12:00AM from Sunday to Thursday and by 1:00AM on Friday and Saturday.
Q: Can a seminarian remain in contact with family and friends?
A: Yes. Seminarians are encouraged to stay in contact with family and friends. Family and friends are good supporters of religious vocations. However, seminarians are asked not to be in any dating or exclusive relationships while in the seminary. A man exploring the possibility of the priesthood is being called to live as closely to the life of a priest as possible.
Q: Is a seminarian required to attend Saint Mary Seminary for five years?
A: At the end of each year, the student discerns his progress in the seminary and makes a commitment for the following year if he decides to continue. If a student decides not to commit to the next year, the student is free to leave the seminary.
Q: Can seminarians have a job during the year?
A: Yes and No. The academic and spiritual formation in the seminary is a full-time load for a graduate student. Therefore, the seminary recommends that seminarians do not seek employment. However, if financial need becomes necessary, seminarians would need permission from the rector before seeking employment.
