Founded in 1890, the National Seminary of Our Lady of Lanka stands as a beacon of spiritual formation and theological education in Sri Lanka. Established by Monsignor Ladislaus Zaleski under the instruction of Pope Leo XIII, the seminary was originally located in the scenic hills of Ampitiya, Kandy. Overlooking the stunning Knuckles Mountain Range, it provided an ideal environment for nurturing future priests for India, Burma, and Ceylon.
For over 130 years, the seminary has remained committed to its vision of transforming men aspiring to the ministerial priesthood into living images of Jesus Christ, the Head and Shepherd of the Church. Our mission is to form priests who are configured to Christ, rooted in the Word of God, and dedicated to the salvation of humanity.
Affiliated with the prestigious Pontifical Urban University in Rome, the National Seminary offers Baccalaureate degrees in both Philosophy and Theology. Throughout its rich history, we have been blessed with numerous bishops and priests who have emerged from our halls, all dedicated to the Church and its mission to spread the Good News.
The aim of priestly formation is to guide seminarians on a transformative journey, shaping them to become living images of Jesus Christ, the Head and Shepherd of the Church. This profound transformation, brought about by the Holy Spirit, requires the free collaboration of each seminarian, supported by the dedicated team of formators. Just as Jesus called His disciples to “be with Him” before sending them out to preach (Mark 3:14), seminarians are called to be with Christ, forming a deep spiritual connection before embarking on their mission.
Daily life at the Seminary is designed to foster spiritual, intellectual, and personal growth. Seminarians engage in structured activities that include prayer, study, manual work, sports, and cultural engagements, all aimed at forming them into dedicated leaders for the Church.
From daily Eucharistic celebrations to hands-on farming, seminarians experience a holistic formation that nurtures their connection to God and community. Through intellectual pursuits in philosophy and theology, they develop the skills needed to articulate and defend their faith.
The Christ the Poor League embodies their commitment to serving the less fortunate, instilling values of compassion and simplicity.
Learn more about our seminary life and the transformative experiences we offer.
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To form missionary priests for the third millennium, whose lives are configured to Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, rooted in His Word and the teachings of the Catholic Church, committed for the salvation of the People of God and humanity.Â
