Kakkanad: A ten-day formation program aimed at the holistic development of young priests from across all dioceses was held at Mount St. Thomas, the headquarters of the Syro-Malabar Church. Spearheaded by the Clergy Commission, the initiative focused on equipping clergy with contemporary pastoral skills and human values essential for today's challenges.
The event was inaugurated by Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil, who emphasized the critical importance of nurturing human virtues in priestly life. He stressed that priestly formation must not end with seminary training but should continue throughout one’s vocation.
Key figures including the Chairman of the Clergy Commission Mar Tony Neelankavil, Curia Bishop Mar Sebastian Vaniyapurakkal, Chancellor Rev. Dr. Abraham Kavil Purayodathil, and Commission Secretary Rev. Dr. Tom Olikkarot, also addressed the gathering, underlining the program's significance.
A notable aspect of the training was the wide array of expert-led sessions and interactive workshops, covering essential topics such as pastoral theology, psychological well-being, liturgical practice, canon law, scriptural insights, effective communication, and youth engagement. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that priests remain responsive and relevant to the spiritual and social needs of today’s faithful.