(Podimattam, India) Our Constitution speaks about the Directors of formators in this way, “Those directing formation, in mutual harmony of mind and purpose, will follow a well thought-out programme which is of genuine service to those who look to them for assistance” (Cf. Const. 83). The American Philosopher and educational reformer John Dewey once said, “The self is not something ready-made, but something in continuous formation through choice of action.” To plan out this kind of well-planned and ongoing formation, the formators of the Liguori Province of Kerala held a meeting on 12th June, 2018 at Santhome Minor Seminary Podimattam, in the presence of our Provincial Rev. Fr. Joy Poonoly C.Ss.R. We had four sessions of profitable discussions (09 am -10 am, 10.30 am -11.30 am, 11.45 am -12.35 pm and 3.30 pm – 4.40 pm) about all stages of formation and about the selection and promotion of vocations. The manual for the directors of formation was read out and discussed and specialy focused on the few aspects of the document. Suggestions and clarifications were made and suggestions were made about the unity of formation system in all three units (Bangalore, Majella and Liguori) in India.
We also had the official inauguration of the new academic year 2018-19. The celebration started with the Holy Qurbana at 5.45 pm. The Provincial Fr. Joy Poonoly was the main celebrant. Fr. Tomy Alappattukunnel (Rector), Fr. Stephen Onisseril (Director), Fr. George Areeckal (Rector of Chowara), Fr. Tony Kattakkayam (Provincial Council Member), Fr. Alex Theruvankunnel (Novice Master), Fr. Chacko Pendanath (Spiritual Director), Fr. Bijo Meppurathu (Asst.Director) were the con-celebrants. Official inauguration meeting was held after the holy Qurbana. Minor Seminarians staged few cultural programmes in relation with the theme “Witnesses of the Redeemer, in Solidariy for Mission to a Wounded World”. The message in homily and meeting was to have a sense of service and mission and create a choice of action and to live a Redemptorist way of life. The releasing of Santhome Hand Book and the delicious dinner added joy to the celebration. Thanks to all who worked hard for making the day a success.
Fr. Bijo Meprathu, CSsR
