Karukutty, India. Local Superiors of the Claretian Province of St. Thomas gathered from August 24 to 27, 2023, at the Claretian Provincial House in Karukutty, Kerala for their meeting and workshop. Fr. Siby Njavallikunnel, CMF, Provincial Superior, emphasized the pivotal role of the ‘synodal way’ in fostering community growth and communion during the inaugural mass.
The meeting saw participation from superiors representing 27 formation and mission centers. The first day featured comprehensive report presentations, highlighting various dimensions of community life, such as spirituality, apostolate, economics, and youth engagement. Positive aspects, including a strong prayer life and a fervour for special ministries, were celebrated, while the need to deepen the understanding of the community’s charism and explore new avenues for personal initiatives was acknowledged.
The second day focused on evaluating concerns and challenges related to transformation processes outlined in the Fifth Provincial Chapter. An innovative outcome was the proposal for a half-yearly ‘Mission Audit’ as a new initiative for the province. The event concluded with an open forum, where Fr. Siby invited participants to share views and announced that 67 members would join a leadership training program in the current year.
The gathering also included a workshop titled “Being My Brothers’ Keeper,” animated by Rev. Dr. Paulson Veliyanoor, CMF. The workshop aimed to enhance leadership skills for collective discernment and effective community life communication.
The Claretian Province of St. Thomas remains committed to spiritual growth and community development, embracing the ‘synodal way’ to strengthen communion and fellowship within its ranks.
Annual Retreat
On the other hand, the first batch for the Annual Retreat of the Province unfolded at CSR, Pariyaram, Kerala, from August 17 to 21, 2023. Guided by the theme from Galatians 4:19, retreatants, numbering 50 in total, explored the idea of “birthing Christ” within themselves. Rev. Fr. Roy Palatty CMI, the retreat preacher, encouraged participants to make space for God in their lives, leading them toward spiritual transformation.
Source: Fr. Efren Limpo Lo, CMF, General Secretary.
