Chennai, 2 August 2023: The Annual South Asia Formators’ Conference (SAFC) commenced at the Salesian Provincial House in Chennai on 2 August 2023. Formators from various provinces in South Asia gathered for a four-day meeting aimed at strengthening the formation process within the Salesian community.
The event began with a warm welcome to the delegates by Fr. John Alexander SDB, Vice Provincial of Chennai, who extended greetings to Fr. Jose Kuttianimattathil SDB and Brother Raymond Callo SDB, the guest animators from Rome. Fr. Lordusamy Don Bosco SDB, Provincial of Chennai Province, and Fr. Koyickal Jose SDB, Provincial of Bangalore Province, were also present to grace the occasion. Fr. Robert Pen SDB, the South Asia Regional Coordinator for Salesian Formation, added his valuable presence to the gathering.
Following the welcoming ceremony, Fr. Robert Pen elaborated on the program’s dynamics and objectives. The first day saw intensive discussions led by Fr. Jose Kuttianimattathil, Brother Raymond Callo, and Fr. Robert Pen on critical aspects such as the formation of formees, the role of formators in the formation process, the vocation of Salesian Brothers, and the functioning of formation houses.
The SAFC aims to facilitate a meaningful exchange of ideas and experiences among the formators, enabling them to enhance their skills and understanding of the formation process. Throughout the next few days, the participants will engage in further discussions on various themes concerning the formation, fostering a collaborative and constructive environment.
The meeting, scheduled to conclude on 5 August 2023, promises to be a pivotal event in promoting the Salesian mission across South Asia. The formators’ collective efforts are expected to contribute significantly to the growth and development of Salesian communities in the region.
Fr Nazarius Lakra SDB, the vice provincial of Dimapur Province is attending the said meeting.
(IND Webmaster and Fr Nazarius Lakra SDB)
