"Our thoughts are not easily God's thoughts, nor our will His will. But as we listen to Him and converse with Him, our minds will be given to understand Him and His designs." (Constitution 3.22)

The Old College program focuses principally on developing young men for religious life and the priesthood. The men of Old College, often known as Old Collegians, are introduced to religious life in Holy Cross through participation in a variety of ministries, retreats, and sacraments.  Such participation includes receiving daily Eucharist and praying the Liturgy of the Hours; along with spiritual direction, service placements, retreats, one-on-one meetings with formation staff and spiritual directors, and participating in weekly community gatherings.

Old Collegians are able to attend either the University of Norte Dame or Holy Cross College located across the street from each other. Each Old Collegeian is able to major in whichever major he chooses, as long as he takes 12 theology credits and 30 philosophy credits to prepare for the Masters of Divinity program.