A Day at the Academy

 

 

Hi, I’m Peter Thibodeau, and I want to give you a glimpse into my life at St. Louis de Montfort Academy in Herndon, Pennsylvania. I’m in 9th grade, and life here isn’t just about classes, it’s about learning to be a real Catholic man.

Rising Early, Centered on God

My day starts at 5:30 a.m., when I get up for Mass. By 6:10, we’re heading to the Oratory of St. Elijah the Prophet to start the day in the presence of God and receive Him in the Holy Eucharist.

Some mornings we wake up a little later, but the first thing we do is pray—either chanting the Little Office of Our Lady or praying the Rosary. It’s a great way to start the day, knowing I’m offering it to God and His Blessed Mother.

Faith in Action

After morning prayers, we have a quick bedroom inspection at 8:25, then sing the Creed in Latin and have breakfast at 8:35. Even breakfast isn’t just eating—it’s a moment to reflect with my classmates on stories about the saints or historical events that inspire us. Before classes start at 9:20, we pause for another prayer dedicating our studies to God.

Challenging Academics

Classes are tough, but that’s the point. We study religion, math, science, history, Latin, and more. And it’s not just about getting good grades—it’s about learning the truth and defending our Faith.

Afternoon and Afterschool

Lunch at 12:55 gives us a little break before classes start again at 2:00. Afternoons mix study hall, free time, and enjoyable activities. Mondays we have band practice, Tuesdays are for outdoor games, Wednesdays we do house cleaning, Thursdays are physical education, and Fridays we train in fencing, which is one of my favorite things to do.

I also get to try different guilds, where we learn skills like woodworking, leatherworking, chainmail crafting, beekeeping, rosary making, gardening, and photography. Some of my friends even do medieval combat! These activities teach patience and self-discipline.

Evening Prayer and Reflection

Evenings are calm but meaningful. We gather for the Rosary, have dinner at 6:30, and then do programs like choir or band. By 8:30, we have our final prayers, and Grand Silence begins—a quiet time to think about the day. Lights out at 9:45 makes sure we’re ready for the next day.

Why I Love It Here

What makes the Academy special is how faith is part of everything we do. We pray together, study together, work together, and grow together. There are no phones, video games, or distractions, so we can focus on what really matters: growing in virtue, loving God, and helping each other.

Imagine having thirty brothers who want you to make it to Heaven.

It feels amazing to be surrounded by so many boys who want to follow God. Every day here reminds me that living a virtuous life is the key to happiness. I am challenged, supported, and inspired to become the man God made me to be—strong, faithful, and ready to fight the good fight with Our Lady’s help.

The Academy isn’t just a school—it’s a place where boys learn to become Catholic heroes.

 

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