St. Francis Xavier College Seminary: Davao University Guide

St. Francis Xavier College Seminary is one of Davao City’s respected formation institutions, known for its commitment to nurturing young men aspiring for the priesthood. Located in the quiet and contemplative area of Catalunan Grande, the seminary provides an environment ideal for spiritual formation, academic development, and community-building. This comprehensive guide explores the seminary’s mission, programs, admission requirements, campus life, and what students can expect while studying here.

Seminary Overview

St. Francis Xavier College Seminary (SFXCS) was established to provide a solid foundation in human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral formation for young men discerning a vocation to the priesthood. It focuses on helping students grow in maturity, faith, leadership, and service.

The seminary offers a structured formation program aligned with the guidelines of the Catholic Church. It aims to prepare seminarians to pursue further theological studies or continue discernment in major seminaries after completing their college-level formation.

Mission and Vision

Mission

St. Francis Xavier College Seminary is committed to forming young men into responsible, compassionate, and faith-driven leaders who embody the values of the Gospel. Its mission emphasizes:

• Deepening personal relationship with Christ

• Cultivating pastoral skills

• Building strong academic and spiritual foundations

• Fostering community life rooted in charity and discipline

Vision

The seminary envisions becoming a center of excellence in priestly formation, producing servant-leaders dedicated to uplifting communities in the Archdiocese and beyond.

Academic Programs

While primarily a formation institution, St. Francis Xavier College Seminary offers academic programs that align with priestly studies. Students typically pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, which serves as a pre-requisite for theological studies.

Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy

This program develops critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and foundational knowledge in philosophical thought. Courses include:

• Logic

• Ethics

• Ancient and Modern Philosophy

• Metaphysics

• Philosophy of Religion

• Introduction to Theology

The program complements spiritual formation by helping seminarians reflect deeply on human existence, morality, and faith.

Formation Programs

Seminarians undergo a holistic formation process that shapes their character, spirituality, and readiness for future pastoral service.

Human Formation

This aspect focuses on developing maturity, discipline, emotional stability, and interpersonal skills. Activities include workshops, counseling, group sessions, and community responsibilities.

Spiritual Formation

The spiritual program includes daily prayers, Eucharistic celebrations, retreats, recollections, and spiritual direction. Seminarians learn to cultivate a consistent prayer life and deepen their relationship with God.

Intellectual Formation

Through the academic program, students gain knowledge in philosophy, humanities, and religious studies. Intellectual formation enables them to understand Church teachings and prepare for theological studies.

Pastoral Formation

Seminarians participate in outreach programs, parish immersion, community service, and apostolic work. These activities help them experience pastoral ministry firsthand.

Campus Environment and Facilities

St. Francis Xavier College Seminary offers a serene environment conducive to prayer, study, and reflection.

Chapel

The chapel serves as the heart of the seminary community, where students gather for Mass, prayer services, and personal meditation.

Dormitories

Seminarians reside on campus in shared dormitories designed to promote community life, responsibility, and simplicity.

Academic Facilities

Classrooms, a library with theological and philosophical resources, and study halls provide academic support for seminarians.

Recreational Areas

To promote balance, the seminary includes sports areas and open grounds where students can engage in physical activities and community recreation.

Community Life

Community life plays a vital role in the seminary experience. Seminarians follow a structured daily schedule that includes prayer, academic work, chores, recreation, and study time.

Key aspects include:

• Regular community meals

• Group reflections

• Ministry assignments

• Cultural and spiritual celebrations

Through shared experiences, seminarians learn cooperation, leadership, and fraternity.

Admission Requirements

Admission to St. Francis Xavier College Seminary requires sincerity of intention, dedication, and foundational maturity.

Basic Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Baptismal and confirmation certificates

• Recommendation from parish priest

• Birth certificate

• Medical and psychological evaluations

Entrance Process

1. Initial Interview – Usually conducted by the vocation promoter or rector.

2. Application Submission – Including documents and personal essays.

3. Psychological Assessment – Measures aptitude and personality compatibility.

4. Live-in or Immersion Program – Allows the applicant to experience seminary life.

5. Final Evaluation – The seminary board decides on acceptance.

Student Support Services

The seminary provides numerous support systems to help students succeed in their formation journey.

Spiritual Direction

Assigned spiritual directors guide seminarians in their prayer life and discernment.

Counseling Services

Professional counselors or formators offer emotional and psychological support.

Academic Advising

Advisers help students navigate coursework and ensure academic progress.

Financial Assistance

Some scholarships or sponsorships may be available for qualified seminarians.

Extracurricular Activities

To develop well-rounded individuals, SFXCS offers extracurricular programs that enhance leadership, community spirit, and physical well-being.

Examples include:

• Choir and liturgical ministries

• Sports competitions

• Outreach missions

• Cultural presentations

• Leadership workshops

Participation in these activities strengthens camaraderie and personal growth.

Why Choose St. Francis Xavier College Seminary?

Strong Spiritual Foundation

The seminary provides an environment where students can grow in faith and deepen their calling.

Holistic Formation

Students develop intellectually, emotionally, spiritually, and socially.

Dedicated Formators

Experienced priests and educators guide seminarians throughout their discernment journey.

Community-Oriented

The seminary fosters fraternity and teamwork—a core value in priestly life.

Pathway to Priesthood

It prepares students for major seminary studies and future ministry opportunities.

Location and Accessibility

St. Francis Xavier College Seminary is located in Catalunan Grande, Davao City, an area ideal for contemplation yet accessible enough for community outreach and parish activities.

Transportation options include jeepneys, taxis, and private vehicles, making it convenient for families and visitors.

Tips for Aspiring Seminarians

• Be open and honest during discernment.

• Maintain a regular prayer life even before entering.

• Seek guidance from a parish priest or vocation director.

• Participate in parish activities to gain ministry exposure.

• Prepare physically, emotionally, and spiritually for structured community living.

Final Thoughts

St. Francis Xavier College Seminary remains a respected formation institution in Davao City. With its holistic program, prayerful environment, and committed formators, it offers an excellent place for young men discerning a vocation to the priesthood. The seminary equips students with essential values and skills that prepare them for future pastoral service and leadership in the Church.

If you are considering a life of ministry and service, this seminary provides the foundation needed for a fulfilling and meaningful journey toward the priesthood.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What type of school is St. Francis Xavier College Seminary?

St. Francis Xavier College Seminary is a Catholic formation institution in Davao City dedicated to young men discerning a vocation to the priesthood. It combines college-level academic studies, usually focused on philosophy, with a structured formation program that includes human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral development. While it functions like a college in terms of academics, its main goal is to prepare seminarians for possible entry into a major seminary and future priestly ministry.

Who can apply to St. Francis Xavier College Seminary?

The seminary is intended for young men who are seriously considering a vocation to the Catholic priesthood. Applicants are usually senior high school graduates or college-level students who are willing to live in a structured community, follow seminary rules, and participate in formation activities. They must be baptized and confirmed Catholics, physically and emotionally healthy, and recommended by a parish priest or spiritual mentor. A sincere desire to discern God’s call is more important than having everything figured out from the start.

What degree or academic program is offered at the seminary?

St. Francis Xavier College Seminary typically offers a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy or a similar program aligned with priestly formation. This degree provides a strong intellectual foundation for future theological studies. Seminarians take courses such as Logic, Ethics, Ancient and Modern Philosophy, Metaphysics, Philosophy of Religion, and introductory theology and religious studies. These subjects help them develop critical thinking, clarity of thought, and a deeper understanding of faith, human existence, and moral issues.

Is the seminary only about prayer, or are there regular college classes too?

The seminary offers both. Daily life is a balance of prayer, community activities, and formal academic classes. Seminarians attend lectures, complete assignments, and take examinations just like students in a regular college. At the same time, they participate in daily Mass, Liturgy of the Hours, spiritual conferences, recollections, retreats, and other formation activities. This integrated schedule is designed to support the whole person—mind, heart, body, and spirit.

What does a typical day look like for a seminarian?

While schedules can vary, a typical day usually begins with morning prayer and Mass, followed by breakfast and academic classes. After lunch, seminarians may attend more classes, have study periods, or participate in assigned tasks and ministries. The late afternoon or early evening often includes sports or recreation, followed by evening prayer, community activities, and personal study time. Lights-out is generally at a set time to ensure rest and discipline. The structured routine helps seminarians grow in responsibility, time management, and balance.

What are the main formation areas in St. Francis Xavier College Seminary?

The seminary focuses on four key dimensions of formation: human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral. Human formation aims at maturity, emotional stability, and good interpersonal relationships. Spiritual formation deepens the seminarian’s personal relationship with Christ through prayer, sacraments, and spiritual direction. Intellectual formation is carried out through the philosophy and religious studies curriculum. Pastoral formation involves outreach, parish exposure, and service to communities, helping seminarians experience ministry in real-life settings.

What facilities can students expect on campus?

The seminary usually includes a chapel, dormitories, classrooms, a library, study areas, and common spaces for community life. The chapel is the spiritual center where Mass, prayer, and adoration are held. Dormitories provide simple but decent accommodations that encourage fraternity and shared responsibility. The library contains books on philosophy, theology, and related fields to support academic work. There are also outdoor areas and sports facilities or open spaces where seminarians can play, exercise, and relax.

How does the admission process work?

The admission process generally includes an initial inquiry or interview with the vocation director or rector, submission of application forms and required documents, psychological and medical evaluations, and sometimes a live-in or immersion experience. During the live-in, candidates experience seminary routines, prayers, and community life for a short period. After evaluating the applicant’s readiness, motivation, and overall suitability, the seminary formation team decides whether to accept the candidate for the next formation year.

What documents are usually required for application?

Common requirements include a high school diploma or college credentials, Baptismal and Confirmation certificates, a recent birth certificate, recent photos, medical clearance, and psychological evaluation results. A recommendation letter from the parish priest or a trusted spiritual mentor is often required to confirm that the applicant has been active in church life and shows signs of a genuine vocation. Some seminaries may request a personal essay or autobiography to better understand the applicant’s background and motivations.

Is financial assistance available for seminarians?

Many college seminaries work with benefactors, diocesan funds, or scholarship programs to assist seminarians who need financial help. While policies differ, some expenses such as tuition, board and lodging, and basic formation costs may be subsidized or partially covered. Prospective seminarians who are concerned about finances should discuss their situation openly with the vocation director or seminary office. Financial limitations are usually not meant to be a barrier for those who truly feel called and are seriously discerning.

Can seminarians still discern and change their path if they realize priesthood is not for them?

Yes. The seminary is a place of discernment, not a guarantee that every student will become a priest. Throughout formation, seminarians are encouraged to be honest with themselves, their spiritual directors, and their formators. If a seminarian later realizes that priesthood is not his calling, he is guided to transition out of the seminary in a healthy and respectful way. The years spent in formation are still valuable, as they build character, deepen faith, and strengthen academic skills.

How can someone start discerning if St. Francis Xavier College Seminary is right for them?

Interested young men can begin by praying regularly, getting involved in parish activities, and talking to a trusted priest or vocation director about their questions. Visiting the seminary, joining vocation seminars, or participating in live-in programs is also very helpful. It is important to be open, honest, and patient with the process. Discernment is not about having instant clarity, but about gradually listening to God’s call through prayer, reflection, personal experiences, and guidance from the Church.