austraLasia 969

 

Renewal Course for Silver Jubilarians

 

 BANGALORE: 21st December '04 --‘Faithfulness and loyalty’ were highlighted by Archbishop Ignatius Pinto DD, former Archbishop of Bangalore at a Solemn Thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration held on 20 November, 2004 at Don Bosco Yuva Prachodini, Bangalore.  The 30 participants belonged to 10 congregations and were at the end of their Renewal Course for Silver Jubilarians (priesthood or religious life) coordinated by the Salesian staff at Bangalore.

     Fr. L. B. Anthony sdb, Director of the center opened the course with three days of Midlife Transition – giving the participants an ability to situate themselves and their present physical, sexual and emotional selves.  Forgiveness and the Love of God were key themes of scripture that Fr. Jacob Thekkanath dealt with.  His passionate and in-depth presentation of the literary style of scripture enabled the participants to discover God’s presence and His plan for humankind.  Fr. Tom Polackal sdb dealt with Core Transformation enabling the participants understand themselves and others in a non-threatening atmosphere.  Fr. Felix Koikara sdb and Sr. Margaret Mathai fma conducted sessions on personal growth while Fr. T. C. Joseph sdb dealt with Consecrated Life.  An ashram experience-cum-retreat led by Fr. Vineeth Vadakkethala CMI, concluded the month long programme. 

     Fr. Joseph Chittissery sdb, a missionary in Assam said of the programme: “This break from my usual activities has deepened my commitment to Christ.  I look forward to greater faithfulness and loving service to others to make him better known and accepted.”  

    This has been the second year that a course has been organized for Silver Jubilarians at Don Bosco Yuva Prachodini.  The Salesian national training center, under the direction of SPCI, opened in 1990, is situated towards the southern end of Bangalore.  Originally meant for Salesians, it now caters to priests and religious through the many renewal, animation, management, leadership, youth ministry and other courses it offers. 

___________________