A Day in the Life of a Discerner
The daily rhythm of prayer, study, and community that shapes future priests for the Archdiocese of Santa Fe.
Life as a seminarian isn’t a mystery.
It’s a steady rhythm of encountering Jesus in prayer, learning to think with the Church, and serving the faithful of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe.
On this page, you’ll get a simple look at the daily schedule, community life, and what it’s like to be a seminarian as well as live in our Newman House of Discernment.
Daily Horarium
The House of Discernment follows a structured horarium — a daily rhythm of prayer, study, work, ministry, and fraternity. This pattern helps each Discerner cultivate discipline, interior peace, and openness to the voice of God.
All residents are expected to participate faithfully in the community’s shared times of prayer and worship.
Monday–Saturday Horarium
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7:00 AM — Morning Prayer (Lauds)
The community gathers in the church each morning to pray the Liturgy of the Hours, entrusting the day to the Lord and offering the first fruits of their time. -
8:15 AM — Mass
The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is at the center of daily life at the Newman Center. Discerners should plan to altar serve at least one Mass each day. -
8:45 AM–12:00 PM — Work, School, Exercise, or Personal Study
Discerners pursue their academic, professional, or personal responsibilities, integrating a life of prayer with a life of active service. -
12:10 PM — Mass
A mid-day opportunity to return to the heart of the Church’s prayer. -
1:00 PM–4:00 PM — Work, School, Apostolate, or Exercise
A continuation of one’s daily responsibilities, studies, and service. -
4:00 PM–5:00 PM — Holy Hour
A silent hour before the Blessed Sacrament. This time is dedicated to contemplative prayer and deep listening to the Lord. - 5:15 PM — Mass
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6:00 PM — Evening Prayer (Vespers)
Prayed together in the church as the community reflects on the graces of the day and offers thanksgiving. -
9:00 PM — Night Prayer (Compline)
The final communal prayer of the day, entrusting the night to God’s protection.
Join Us for Prayer & Mass
Visitors are welcome at the following times:
- Lauds (Morning Prayer): 7:00 am
- Daily Mass: 8:15 am
- Adoration: Thursdays, 7:00–8:00 pm
Please call ahead at [Phone Number] or email [email protected] before your first visit so we can welcome you.
Other Commitments
Sunday Schedule
Discerners participate fully in the parish Sunday liturgies and ministries.
The specific Sunday schedule may vary based on parish needs, but communal Night Prayer at 9:00 PM is observed every Sunday evening.
Altar Serving Commitment
Discerners are expected to serve at least one Mass each day as part of their ongoing liturgical formation and service to the parish.
Wednesdays: House Day
Wednesdays are designated as House Day, a special time set aside for:
- Formation conferences
- Workshops
- Spiritual and human development sessions
- One-on-one meetings with formators
- Fraternity building
- Shared meals and discussions
While the regular prayer schedule is maintained, academic or work commitments should not be scheduled on Wednesday afternoons to allow for the full House formation program.
From Morning Prayer to Lights Out
What does all this look like in real life? Here’s a typical day as a seminarian:
Morning
Starting the Day with the Lord
The day begins in silence, with personal prayer and Morning Prayer (Lauds) with the community. From there, seminarians go to Mass and share breakfast together.
This is where habits of faithfulness are formed: showing up, listening to God, and offering the day to Him.
Midday
Study, Formation, and Ministry
Late morning and early afternoon are devoted to classes, spiritual and human formation, and apostolic work.
Seminarians study philosophy and theology, learn how to preach and teach, and serve in local parishes or ministries throughout the Archdiocese.
Evening
Prayer, Brotherhood, and Rest
Evenings often include Evening Prayer, holy hour or Adoration on certain days, and a shared community meal.
After dinner, men have time for recreation, spiritual reading, or study. This is where fraternity grows—through conversation, shared meals, and the simple joy of living in community.
Weekends & Special Events
Weekend Ministry & Community Life
On weekends, seminarians may assist at parish Masses, visit family, or participate in retreats and days of recollection.
Throughout the year, there are also community outings, service projects, and diocesan events.
Take the Next Step
If you’re discerning the priesthood—or just curious—consider visiting for prayer, a meal, or a “come and see” weekend. We’d be honored to welcome you.