St. Joseph's Province, Missionaries of Compassion
The Ministry of Formation of Seminarians is a vital mission of the Missionaries of Compassion, entrusted with preparing young men to become future religious priests dedicated to a life of compassionate service. Rooted in the Gospel and inspired by the charism of compassion, this ministry seeks to form shepherds after the heart of Christ—men of faith, humility, and generous self-giving.
Seminary formation is a gradual and prayerful journey of discernment. In the seminaries of the Missionaries of Compassion, candidates are guided to listen attentively to God’s call and to respond with freedom and maturity. Through spiritual direction, community life, and ongoing accompaniment, seminarians grow in self-knowledge, responsibility, and commitment to their vocation.
The formation program follows a holistic approach, nurturing the whole person in four essential dimensions:
Spiritual Formation: At the center of seminary life is a deep relationship with God. Daily prayer, the Eucharist, meditation on the Word of God, retreats, and devotion help seminarians develop a strong spiritual foundation rooted in trust and compassion.
Human Formation: Emphasis is placed on emotional maturity, healthy relationships, discipline, and personal integrity. Seminarians are helped to grow as balanced, joyful, and compassionate individuals.
Intellectual Formation: Solid philosophical and theological education equips seminarians to understand the faith deeply and to proclaim it effectively. Academic study is integrated with reflection on contemporary challenges faced by the Church and society.
Pastoral Formation: Seminarians are gradually introduced to pastoral ministry through direct service among the poor, the sick, children, the elderly, and other marginalized groups. This hands-on experience grounds their formation in the lived reality of compassion.
True to the charism of the Missionaries of Compassion, seminarians are formed to see Christ in the suffering and to serve with humility and simplicity. Community life plays a central role, fostering brotherhood, shared responsibility, and mutual support. Through daily interactions and common mission, seminarians learn to live the values they are called to preach.
Dedicated formators, spiritual directors, and educators walk closely with each seminarian, offering guidance, correction, and encouragement. This personal accompaniment ensures that each candidate is formed according to his unique gifts, while remaining faithful to the mission and values of the congregation.
The ultimate goal of seminary formation is to prepare men who are ready to serve wherever the Church and the congregation need them most. Formed in compassion, simplicity, and availability, future Missionaries of Compassion are sent forth to bring hope, healing, and the merciful love of God to a suffering world.
Through the formation of seminarians, the Missionaries of Compassion invest in the future—forming faithful servants who will live and proclaim the compassionate heart of Christ in every place they are sent.