Our Story
History
The Spiritan Missionary Seminary (SMS), formerly known as the Spiritan Institute of Philosophy, is located in Njiro, Arusha, Tanzania, approximately 8.2 kilometers from the city center. It was established in October 1986 by the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers under the Protection of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (Spiritans). The seminary was founded in response to the request from Catholic bishops for the Spiritans to establish their own house of formation due to the lack of space in diocesan seminaries.
Originally intended for the philosophical training of Spiritan aspirants, the seminary later opened its doors to other religious congregations, including:
- The Benedictines
- The Pallottines
- The Passionists
- The Dominicans
- The Augustinians of the Assumption
- The Missionary Community of St. Paul the Apostle and Mary Mother of the Church
- The Missionaries of Africa (White Fathers)
Over the years, various dioceses and religious societies have benefited from the seminary’s academic and spiritual formation, including the Archdiocese of Arusha, Diocese of Zanzibar, Diocese of Kigoma, Diocese of Mbeya, and South Africa.
Today, Spiritan Missionary Seminary is a recognized institution for priestly formation, offering an integrated approach to spiritual, human, and intellectual formation. The seminary aims to nurture committed and responsible individuals in service to the Church and society.