Acceptance of Postulants

Photo and Article contributed by Fr. Teja Anthara, SCJ, a formator at Dehon Vidya Sadhan, Aluva, Kerala:

October 4, 2004 is the memorial of St. Francis of Assisi, a wonderful saint who followed the Gospel message literally. He converted from a wealthy life style to a poor and repentant prayerful life style. Every Christian honors him as one of the beloved disciples of Jesus. On the same day was an historical moment for the SCJ Indian District, for on that day 13 third year philosophy students began their Postulancy. They are Ajit Kumar Baxla, Passala Anil Kumar, Bodigala Kumar, Joseph Kumar, Joseph Kasmir, Balaiah, Lenin James, Rajeev James, Chowda Jojappa, Mani Srikanth Reddy, Colin, Roy Xavier and Jackson. They are from the states of Madhya Pradesh, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh. Under the guidance of the Director of Postulancy, Fr. Thomas Stanley, they are eager to know about religious life in the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart. Because of health reasons, Fr. Tom was not able to be here for this celebration.

In his sermon, Fr. Martin van Ooij said that the time of Postulancy is a time to learn more about themselves. It is a time to examine and to strengthen their self-motivation, asking themselves whether religious life will be a suitable life style. It is a time to experience more deeply the meaning of community life. He encouraged the Postulants to grow in their desire for more understanding about what religious life means for them. He told them that they themselves are the central focus during this time. This will be an opportunity for growth, a time to be convinced of their vocation. It is a time of preparation before entering the Novitiate, when they officially will begin their religious formation. Fr. Martin insisted that they pay attention to their personal prayer and become more open to the voice of God in their lives. Fr. Teja also emphasized this during his talk as he prepared them the day before.

As a sign of entering into the Postulancy period, they received a Bible and the 'jubah' from the congregation. The Postulancy acceptance took place at Dehon Vidya Sadhan, Aluva during the time of Adoration. Also present for the ceremony were Fr. William, all the students from the Senior Dehonians, as well as all the brothers from the Aluva community.

We hope that all these brothers will use this time of Postulancy to grow and discover their own self, to be good a religious person in the future. May the Holy Spirit who is their main Formator guide them and enlighten them with her wisdom, love and peace. Amen.


V. Teja Anthara, SCJ
Kerala - India