Chris Massaro, a new Catholic seminarian, removes his clerical collar so he can put on his vestments for Mass.
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The black cassock and white surplice he dons for Mass are part of a his current daily routine, a life far different from his previous one.
Evelio Contreras/CNN
Massaro, far left, was on track to earn a Ph.D. in medical physics when he answered his calling to the priesthood. He is now living in a no-frills building and developing his relationship with God during a "Spiritual Year" required at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, which is affiliated with the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.
Evelio Contreras/CNN
Nine seminarians live together for the "Spiritual Year," during which they are steeped in prayer and study without the pressure of grades.
Evelio Contreras/CNN
These seminarians are on a media fast. They spend their days studying, praying and reciting the rosary. They attend classes on scripture, Catechism and spiritual classics, and delve into short courses on topics like celibacy and salvation history.
Evelio Contreras/CNN
The men, who hope to become priests someday, rotate responsibilities each week in their chapel during daily Mass.
