20/08/2026
๐ฏ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐ฏ๐ณ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐ฏ๐ป๐บ | 7๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐
The seminary community gathered in prayer for the solemn celebration of the Seventh Novena Mass in honor of Mary, Queen of the Apostles, presided over by Rev. Fr. Arnold Tiplaca at Queen of Apostles College Seminary. The celebration brought together seminarians, formators, faculty, and members of the local faithful in a spirit of prayer, communion, and devotion to Mary, Queen of the Apostles.
In his meaningful homily, Fr. Tiplaca reflected on the mystery of Godโs call to the priesthood, emphasizing the words, โMany are called, but few are chosen.โ He reminded the seminarians that hearing Godโs call is only the beginning of the vocational journey. To truly respond to that call requires a willing heart, perseverance, and a sincere commitment to follow Christ.
Fr. Tiplaca highlighted that the vocation to priesthood requires constant self-denial. Being called to the seminary does not mean seeking comfort, recognition, or personal fulfillment, but learning to surrender oneโs own desires for the sake of Godโs will. The journey toward priesthood demands sacrifice, discipline, humility, and the daily decision to die to oneself in order to live more fully for Christ and His people.
He further reminded the seminarians that responding to Godโs call is not always easy. There will be moments of struggle, temptation, doubt, and difficulty that will test oneโs commitment to the vocation. Yet, these challenges become opportunities to deepen oneโs trust in God and to grow in holiness. The seminarian is therefore called to remain faithful, persevering in prayer and formation while continually allowing God to shape his heart according to His will.
This spirit of faithful self-giving is beautifully reflected in Mary, Queen of the Apostles, who responded to Godโs invitation with her wholehearted โyes.โ She did not cling to her own plans but surrendered herself completely to Godโs purpose. Through her example, seminarians are reminded that vocation is ultimately a call to give oneself generously to the Lord, embracing whatever sacrifices are necessary in order to fulfill the mission entrusted by Him.
As the community continues its Novena, Fr. Tiplacaโs message invites the seminarians to take seriously the demands of the priestly vocation: many may be called, but few are chosen to persevere faithfully in the path of total self-giving. The journey toward priesthood requires constant self-denial, humility, sacrifice, and an unwavering willingness to follow Christ. Through the intercession of Mary, Queen of the Apostles, the seminarians are encouraged to remain faithful to their calling and to continually offer their lives in service to God and His people.