 He studied at the seminary in Caltanissetta, from where he obtained his licentiate in theology, and then went to Rome to study at the Pontifical Gregorian University, earning his doctorates in theology, philosophy, and civil and canon law.Francica was ordained to the priesthood on 22 May 1869.During his studies at the Pontifical Academy of Ecclesiastical Nobles (1870-1880), he served as rector of the Caltanissetta seminary for three years, becoming the pro-vicar general (1877) and later full vicar general of the diocese.