On September 12th, Jean Blaise Mwanda and Thomas Sukotriraharjo coordinate the day dedicated (among other matters) to Initial Formation. Findings and challenges are what stand out from the discussion. Among the findings: all major communities have integrated the 4th stage document into their initial formation plan and have a programme for brothers preparing for final vows - either at the provincial/regional or conference level (CAP).
Among the challenges outlined include: to continue financial aid to Initial Formation in the sectors of the Congregation that have fewer financial resources yet more vocations; and to find a more effective system of financial solidarity, given the decrease in financial resources. In addition, addressing the training of formators, also in large communities where there are none.
Recommendations:
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To put into practice the decision of the 39th General Chapter about the preparation meeting for those approaching perpetual vows.
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To continue with the team of formators for the 4th stage.
They were addressed the following question:
What can be changed in the future in Initial formation?
Thomas Sukotriraharjo (General Government)
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How to promote our SSCC religious life among the youth. Vocation and promotion must be the priority in the Congregation and in each province. The vocation and promotion commission must be more creative and innovative in presenting and promoting the congregation to young people.
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Preparing good formators by supporting the formation programme aimed at formators. For example, what CAP is doing, where there are online seminars for the ‘formation of formators’. There are also periodic meeting of the formators at CAP and CIAL level.
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Interdependence in initial formation with others provinces/ regions or at Conference level [CEA, CAP-US, CIAL]. For example, the International Noviciate in the Philippines and Argentina or the example of interdependence in the preparation of brothers for perpetual vows in CAP.
Jean Blaise Mwanda (General Government)
What can be changed in the future of Initial Formation?
From my experience, as one of the members of the General Commission for Initial Formation, I believe that the approach to the question of formation (both initial and ongoing formation) is important. We need to return to the foundations of our identity as Sacred Hearts. We must all drink from the same source. In this way we will strengthen our SSCC identity, share the common project and grow as a congregational body. I am thinking of the formation of formators for the entire Congregation, on the charism, spirituality, history, vocation and mission of the SSCC. The Congregation must also create occasions for encounters between those who are at the same stage, such as the meeting in preparation for perpetual vows; the pastoral experiences in the different presences of the Congregation; or the Poitiers Session. This will help us to feel like a missionary body from the beginning of our Initial Formation process until the end of our lives.
09/13/2024