The evening before the Assembly, the members of the India District had the opportunity to witness Fra. Thomas receiving the ministries of Lector & Acolyte.
After the Celebration of the Eucharist we gathered together to enjoy our annual District Christmas Gathering, with a meal, entertainment, and exchange of gifts.
The Assembly began in the morning of December 29th, 2005. 16 members of the SCJ India District gathered at Sacred Heart Ashram (India District Novitiate) for 3 days.
The major topic of discussion was District Formation. Reports were presented highlighting such things as the Common Principles of Formation , Administrative Issues that needed to be clarified, Program Expectations, the Goals of the District Formation Commission, Postulancy program, Regency, Religious Brothers in formation, Preparation for Final Vows, and the need for more personnel in India.
A report was given by Fr. Jose on the status of District finances.
Although Formation is the primary ministry of the SCJ India District, each community had the opportunity to describe the various outreach ministries they are involved in.
The major decisions that were made included:
*The Assembly decided to continue the discussion regarding the common principles of the formation personnel. The formation commission will send out a packet of materials to everyone
*The Assembly accepts the idea of a year long postulancy program, after Philosophy. There is groundwork that needs to be done: The Formation Commission, Novice Master, etc… will look into doing research to create some proposals. This process will begin immediately.
*The Assembly made numerous suggestions regarding the work and role of the District Formation Commission, it recommended the following regarding its membership: Each community will present a name to the District Council. The District Council will then decide on the membership of the Formation Commission, choosing from the group of presented names. A smaller number on the Commission is preferable, 1 coordinator, 3 members; but the council can be flexible in its decisions. The Formation Commission will be re-established with the new administration.
No comments:
Post a Comment