St. John’s Regional Seminary Opens Academic Year 2026–27 with Focus on Formation and Intellectual Growth

Kondadaba, June 10, 2026: St. John’s Regional Seminary, Kondadaba, formally inaugurated the Academic Year 2026–2027 on June 10 with a Eucharistic celebration and inaugural programme that highlighted the importance of intellectual, spiritual and personal formation in preparing future priests.

The seminary community, comprising 26 seminarians and six staff members, began the new academic year with renewed enthusiasm. The student body includes nine First-Year, eight Second-Year and nine Third-Year seminarians.

The inaugural celebrations began with the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Rev. Fr. Jaddu Joseph, MSFS, Provincial Elect of the MSFS Congregation, Vizag Province, who served as the chief guest.

In his homily, Fr. Joseph emphasised the importance of learning, intellectual curiosity and personal growth during philosophical formation. Drawing from his own experiences as a philosophy student, he encouraged the seminarians to make the most of their formative years by developing a spirit of dedication, openness to wisdom and a deeper commitment to learning.

He noted that philosophy extends beyond the classroom, providing an important foundation for understanding life, faith and future ministry. He wished the seminarians a fruitful and enriching academic year.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, the inaugural programme was held with Rev. Fr. Thumma Vijay Prathap, SDB, Rector of the Seminary, welcoming the chief guest, priests, religious and seminarians. In his address, he briefly recalled the history of St. John’s Regional Seminary and reaffirmed its commitment to the holistic formation of candidates for priesthood.

A key part of the inaugural programme was the presentation of the Academic Year Plan by Rev. Fr. Tom Parecattil, SDB, Principal. Welcoming the new seminarians and acknowledging those who had completed their formation and moved on to new assignments, he outlined the academic and formative programme planned for the year.

Fr. Parecattil encouraged the seminarians to participate actively in the various dimensions of seminary life and to approach their studies and formation with commitment and enthusiasm.

With the inauguration of the new academic year, St. John’s Regional Seminary looks forward to another year of learning, spiritual growth, personal formation and preparation for ministry, as its seminarians continue their journey towards priesthood.