Reports from Formation Houses
Each formation house presented its annual plan and challenges:
Aspirantate (Thanjavur): English, music coaching, and counselling were key areas of focus. A need for an assessment system before Pre-Novitiate was discussed.
Nettur: With only two candidates, focus was on English, music, and Salesian traditions. A transition plan to Tiruppattur was suggested.
Pre-Novitiate: 24 candidates, engaging in village exposure, folk arts training, oratories, and monthly counselling.
Post-Novitiate: 26 brothers faced language struggles in both English and Tamil. Need for motivation and reading habits was highlighted.
Theologate (Kaverapetai): 61 Salesians; emphasis on encouraging library usage. Novitiate: 21 novices with good English skills. Oratories had not yet begun.
Formation Syllabus: The meeting approved a proposal to implement Oxford English Learning textbooks for structured English training.
Provincial’s Address
Fr. Agilan emphasized the importance of spiritual direction and counselling for the brothers, ensuring they receive the necessary support. He stressed that formation is not just about syllabus and curriculum but also about setting a good example through the formators’ lives.
Psycho-Sexual Integration for Young Salesians (2-3 August 2024)
An animation session on Psycho-Sexual Integration was conducted by Fr. Bernatsha for young Salesians in Practical Training and College Studies. The session provided techniques for maturity and spiritual growth. Group discussions helped participants understand and address psycho-sexual challenges.
Live-in & Interaction with Vicar of the Rector Major (4 August 2024)
Formees from various houses gathered at Don Bosco Thanjavur for a live-in experience during the Vicar’s visit. The event helped aspirants, especially XII-standard students, learn about Pre-Novitiate life, motivating them to continue their Salesian journey.
Formation of Formators
A joint animation session on “Salesian Formation in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” was conducted for formators of both the INT and INM Provinces. Best practices and challenges in formation were discussed, coordinated by Fr. John Alexander.
Missionary Animation & Live-in Experience
Formees from INT and INM provinces gathered at Don Bosco, Tirupattur, for missionary animation. The event included group discussions, football matches, campfires, and input sessions, fostering missionary vocations among young Salesians.
