Kochi: Ordination is not the finish line of a priest’s vocation but the beginning of a lifelong journey, emphasized Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil. Speaking at the inauguration of the Junior Priests’ Ongoing Formation Programme, the head of the Syro-Malabar Church underlined that priestly formation does not end with seminary training but must continue throughout one’s life in ministry.
He noted that a priest is constantly invited to grow in his spiritual, pastoral, intellectual, and human dimensions. Just as the Church undergoes renewal in every age, priests too are called to remain open to transformation, drawing strength from humility, fidelity, and the pursuit of holiness. “Formation does not conclude at ordination it simply takes on a new form. It is a never-ending journey that unfolds with the responsibilities of ministry and the evolving needs of the faithful,” Mar Raphael said.
The Major Archbishop stressed that ongoing formation is not optional but an integral part of priestly life. In a world of rapid change, where the faithful look to priests for guidance, compassion, and leadership, ongoing renewal ensures that priests remain effective servants of Christ and His Church. He highlighted that pastoral ministry today requires deeper adaptability, prayerful discernment, and a readiness to respond to the challenges of modern society with courage and grace.
Curia Bishop Mar Sebastian Vaniapurackal also addressed the gathering, urging priests to embrace their vocation as a lifelong commitment to learning and service. Chancellor Rev. Fr. Abraham Kavilpurayidathil, and Rev. Fr. Tom Olikkarott, Secretary of the Commission for Clergy, echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of structured programmes that guide priests beyond their seminary years.
The Junior Priests’ Ongoing Formation Programme serves as a platform to equip young priests with tools for self-renewal, pastoral efficiency, and spiritual depth. The leaders noted that by investing in such formation, the Church is preparing its clergy not only to shepherd today’s faithful but also to inspire generations to come.