Karukutty, India. From December 5–9, 2024, the ASCLA West Solidarity and Mission (SOMI) Workshop brought together 33 participants at the Claretian Provincial House in Karukutty, Kerala, India. Organized by the General SOMI Team in collaboration with the ASCLA West Conference and hosted by the St. Thomas Province, the event aimed to strengthen global advocacy and local action among Claretians from seven major organisms.
The workshop opened with an environmentally-themed prayer service, followed by a welcome address from Fr. Siby Njavallikunnel, CMF, Provincial of St. Thomas Province. Fr. Joseph Mapilaparambil,CMF, ASCLA West President, inaugurated the gathering with a symbolic act of watering a plant, representing growth and unity. Inspirational messages from Fr. Mathew Vattamattam, CMF, Superior General, and Fr. Pedro Balderrain, CMF, General Prefect of Apostolate, provided both spiritual and strategic guidance.
A critical session led by Fr. Binoy Jacob, SJ analyzed the socio-economic, political, and environmental challenges in Asia, proposing actionable responses such as the establishment of Peace Studies programs and Peace Clubs. Fr. Joseey Thamarassary, CMI, addressed the ecclesial context, highlighting the growth of Christianity in India amid challenges like rising communalism, globalization, and anti-conversion laws. Together, these sessions emphasized the need for faith-driven, strategic interventions.
On the second day, Fr. Antonio Llamas, CMF linked biblical themes of justice and peace with Claretian spirituality and modern ecological concerns. Participants applied the JPIC methodology—“See, Discern, and Act”—to address regional issues, exploring themes of human dignity, solidarity, and sustainable practices through Catholic Social Teaching and reflections on Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’.
Day three highlighted Claretians’ global advocacy efforts, particularly through the United Nations (UN). Fr. Rohan Dominic, CMF, and Henry Ramirez Soler, CMF, emphasized the importance of supporting marginalized communities and aligning ministries with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). An online session by Mrs. Anita Cheria, South India Coordinator for the Justice Coalition of Religious (JCoR), reinforced collective advocacy for justice and human rights.
Participants also engaged in discussions on the triple planetary crises—climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution—and explored international human rights mechanisms with insights from Fr. Henri, CMF.
On the fourth day, Fr. Lord Winner, CMF introduced a transformative approach to mission procure, rooted in Integral Human Development (IHD). Sessions focused on ethical fundraising, resource management, and inter-organism collaboration. Mission mapping exercises helped align Claretian initiatives with the SDGs, while panel discussions with mission procurators shared best practices.
The final day focused on strategic planning to ensure SOMI’s regional implementation. Participants developed action plans addressing justice and development challenges, aligning local efforts with global objectives. At the ASCLA West level, collective planning strengthened solidarity across provinces. The workshop concluded with a commitment prayer, inspiring participants to pursue mission-driven social transformation.
The ASCLA West SOMI Workshop 2024 reaffirmed Claretians’ dedication to solidarity, justice, and ecological sustainability. Participants returned to their communities equipped with actionable plans, ready to bridge global challenges with local solutions and foster positive change.
Source: Fr Rohan Dominic, CMF, Claretian UN Team and Fr Lord Winner, CMF, General Mission Procurator.
