MINISTRY OF FORMATION

ST. JOSEPH’S JUNIORATE

KOHUWALA, NUGEGODA

Located in Kohuwala, Nugegoda, the Oblate Juniorate is dedicated to forming mature, educated, and service-oriented candidates who are capable of fully embracing Christian discipleship through the Oblate way of life.

Discernment and Recruitment

The journey to the Juniorate begins with careful discernment. Prospective candidates are closely accompanied by the Vocation Director, who conducts home visits, organizes vocational camps, and consults with parish priests, religious, and lay faithful familiar with the candidate's family background.

Following comprehensive interviews, selected candidates must submit a thorough portfolio to ensure their readiness. This includes letters of recommendation from their parish priest or principal, a medical certificate, IQ and EQ test results, and essential civil and ecclesiastical documents (such as certificates of Birth, Baptism, Confirmation, and Parents' Marriage).

Academic Formation

Candidates typically enter the Juniorate in Grade 10, or immediately following their O/Level or A/Level examinations. The primary academic objective is to successfully complete the G.C.E. Advanced Level (A/L) Examination and the National Seminary Entrance (NSE) Examination.

Academic paths are carefully chosen in consultation with the Juniorate staff. To maximize each student's potential, flexible options—such as choosing between English Literature and Political Science as a third A/L subject—are provided based on the candidate's strengths. Beyond the classroom, students are encouraged to participate in Ministry of Education competitions. They also continually refine their talents through the Sinhala and English Literary Associations, and utilize the on-site computer lab, reading room, and library.

Holistic Development

The Juniorate emphasizes a well-rounded formation process that addresses the physical, psychological, spiritual, and pastoral needs of every candidate:

  • Physical Well-Being: Ample opportunities for physical development are provided through daily games, "Earth care" environmental activities, and periodic sports matches between inter-house and outside teams.
  • Psychological Growth: To foster human development and psycho-sexual maturity, candidates attend conferences and lectures led by competent professionals, helping them recognize their own intrinsic dignity and that of others. Healthy familial bonds are also maintained through regular family visits and holidays.
  • Spiritual Accompaniment: Formators and dedicated spiritual directors provide constant guidance to ensure the candidate has the right intention to follow Jesus Christ. The spiritual rhythm of the house includes personal and community prayer, daily Holy Eucharist, the celebration of major Church and Oblate feasts, monthly recollections, and annual retreats complete with the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
  • Pastoral Exposure: To cultivate a true Oblate missionary outlook, post-A/L candidates engage in practical pastoral training at the parish of Our Lady of Fatima in Maradana. Here, they gain hands-on ministry experience while being guided and observed by senior Oblates.

Contact - ST. JOSEPH'S SEMINARY