Agra Region Reflects on Formation: Seminar Calls for Renewal of Priestly and Religious Training

Agra, March 13, 2026: The Agra Regional Commission for Vocation, Seminaries, Clergy and Religious (VSCR) organised a two-day seminar on the Review and Renewal of the Formation Programme at Nav Jyothi Pastoral Centre in Agra, bringing together more than sixty priests and religious sisters to reflect on the future of priestly and religious formation in the region.

The seminar provided a platform for participants to evaluate current formation programmes in seminaries and formation houses across the Agra region. The initiative sought to review existing practices in the light of the Church’s teachings, recent papal exhortations, and emerging pastoral realities, while discerning ways to ensure that formation remains firmly rooted in Christ and responsive to contemporary challenges.

Archbishop Raphy Manjaly of Agra, Chairman of the CCBI Regional Commission for VSCR, delivered the keynote address, underscoring the importance of holistic formation for the future of the Church. He encouraged formators to renew their dedication to forming candidates who are spiritually grounded, pastorally sensitive, and capable of responding to the needs of the people of God.

The presence of Bishop Oswald Lewis of Jaipur, Bishop Emeritus and Rector of Maria Sadan Seminary, enriched the gathering as participants engaged in meaningful discussions on strengthening formation practices throughout the region.

The academic sessions explored theological and pastoral perspectives on formation. Fr. A. Sebastian, Commission Secretary and Rector of St Joseph’s Regional Seminary in Prayagraj, presented an overview of the historical development of priestly and religious formation within the Church.

Fr. Henry Bright of St Albert’s Seminary, Ranchi, served as the resource person and led sessions on the Magisterium’s teachings on formation, highlighting the need for a progressive and context-sensitive approach. Referring to key ecclesial documents such as Optatam Totius, Presbyterorum Ordinis, Perfectae Caritatis, Pastores Dabo Vobis, Vita Consecrata, and the Charter for Priestly Formation, he emphasised the Church’s call to form authentic witnesses of Christ and compassionate servants of the people.

Fr. Jacob Palamattom, Deputy Secretary of the Agra Regional Bishops’ Council, also addressed the gathering and encouraged those involved in the ministry of formation to continue their mission with dedication and hope.

The programme also included personal testimonies from participants who shared their experiences as formators, reflecting on the spiritual insights and challenges encountered while accompanying candidates in their vocational journey. Group discussions and a plenary session further examined current challenges in formation and explored possible pastoral responses.

A panel discussion moderated by Fr. Jithin Abraham of Varanasi, Rector of Vishva Jyoti Gurukul, addressed practical concerns related to formation ministry. The discussion focused on issues such as the identity and mission of a formator, dealing with discouragement, balancing responsibilities, and accompanying candidates who struggle to meet expectations.

Participants later collaborated in drafting a “Statement of Formation,” articulating a shared vision and concerns of formators in the Agra region.

The seminar provided an important space for dialogue, reflection, and mutual support among those responsible for formation, reaffirming the region’s commitment to nurturing future priests and religious who will serve the Church with fidelity, pastoral sensitivity, and a deep spirit of discipleship.

By Catholic Connect Reporter