National Training for Propaedeutic Formators Commences in Trivandrum

Trivandrum, 24 September 2025: Eighteen propaedeutic seminary formators from 14 regions of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CCBI) gathered on 23 September at the Kristu Jyoti Jubilee Memorial Animation Centre, Kovalam, Trivandrum, for the tenth National Training Programme for Propaedeutic Seminary Formators. The programme seeks to equip formators with the skills and insights needed to guide seminarians in authentic spiritual formation in today’s world.

The Holy Eucharist, presided over by Archbishop Thomas J Netto of Trivandrum, marked the opening of the programme. In his homily, he encouraged participants to help candidates “listen like Samuel, remain with Jesus like the apostles, and grow in discernment, authentic freedom, human maturity, and true community.”

The inaugural session, coordinated by Fr. George Abraham, highlighted last year’s programme through a presentation by Fr. Charles Leon. Reflecting on the realities of contemporary ministry, Msgr. Eugene H. Pereira, Vicar General of Trivandrum, delivered the inaugural address. 

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Laurence Culas, Coordinator of Archdiocesan Ministries, spoke on “Biblical Perspectives of Spiritual Formation in the Digital Age.” Drawing on the examples of Jesus, Samuel, and Mary, he emphasised that seminarians must be formed in the Spirit, not merely filled with information, reminding participants that formation is often “taught rather than caught,” in accordance with Jesus’ own approach.

The day also included an Emmaus Walk and group sharing, allowing formators to deepen their understanding of the keynote reflections. The programme focuses on three schools of spirituality—Ignatian, Carmelite, and Franciscan—guided respectively by Fr. Sunny Kunnapally SJ, Fr. Peter Chakkiath OCD, and Fr. Denis Gabriel Viegas OFM Cap.

Sessions encouraged mutual learning through video presentations showcasing life, formation modules, and best practices from various formation houses. Participants also discussed key concerns, including mobile phone usage, the conduct of examinations during the propaedeutic stage, and practical implementation of formation modules. Fr. Bhaskar Joseph, Director of the Centre, extended a warm welcome, and Fr. Binny Mary Das offered the vote of thanks.

The training will conclude on Friday, 26 September, with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist by Auxiliary Bishop Christudas of Trivandrum. The seminar sets an inspiring tone, motivating formators to accompany candidates towards authentic discipleship in today’s digital culture.

By Catholic Connect Reporter