After completing their college studies and novitiate, young religious of Holy Cross continue their formation and begin their scholastic studies of Philosophy and Theology. This is done at Holy Cross Seminary, Pune in the state of Maharashtra, which was established on May 1, 1967 with Fr. John Desrochers, c.s.c. as its first Rector. Pune is situated in what is known as the Deccan Plateau, not far from the metropolitan city of Mumbai. Being quite above sea level, it has a salubrious climate and is known as a ‘Pensioners’ Paradise.’

Scholastics at Holy Cross Seminary, Pune, undertake their studies in the Jesuit-run Pontifical Institute known as Jnana-Deepa Vidyapeeth (JDV) and have the unique opportunity of studying alongside seminarians from a large number of other religious congregations and dioceses of India and abroad. This institution provides formation to religious women and lay people as well. For many years, our seminary has been witness to collaboration between the Brothers and Priests of Holy Cross in India (NE and SI) as well as the Sacred Heart Province of Bangladesh. Scholastics from all these four sectors have spent several years together in this house of formation.

Pune Diocese is a fairly and widespread one with a large number of parish churches and sub-stations. Hence, there is ample opportunity for seminarians to engage in pastoral ministry, which they do on weekends. Involvement in the life of many parishes takes the form of liturgy animation, catechism classes, youth ministry, animation of Small Christian Communities, choir-direction and social work services. Deacons also have the opportunity to assist in the liturgies and acquire experience in delivering homilies and exercising their ministry. In August 2002, Holy Cross accepted the pastoral responsibility of Ramwadi Sub-Centre. This has provided more opportunities for collaboration in ministry between the parish and the scholasticate.

Having passed through the portals of Holy Cross Seminary, religious of Holy Cross come to the end of their initial period of formation and are ready for ordination to the priesthood or active ministry in the Congregation of Holy Cross.