The St. John the Evangelist School of Theology, founded by His Excellency Most Reverend Pedro R. Dean, DD, in 1988, offers a complete theological formation to young men who have expressed their desire for the priesthood. As an institution for the last phase of the priestly formation, it aims at providing the priests-to-be the basic knowledge of theological discipline, fostering an atmosphere of deeper reflection on theological doctrine and furnishing the necessary skills to the Filipino Christian today. In short, the theologate envisions priests who are theologically sound, spiritually grounded and pastorally oriented in their lifestyles.
Although SJEST considers the future priests as the primary recipients in the theologate, it now offers an academic programs leading to the degree of Master of Arts in Theology (MAT) and Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry (MAPM). These academic degrees are meant for those going for the priesthood or from religious and lay persons who wish to undergo theological studies. It aims at fostering theological research and at promoting pastoral action in the area of encounter between faith and culture.
The specific objectives of the Graduate Program in Theology are: 1) to develop skills and advanced study in the theological discipline, i.e., Biblical and Systematic Theology, and 2) to increase the teaching competence of those involved in the transmission of Christian Faith to specific groups of peoples.