The inaugural course for formators from the South East Asian region, organised by Centro Internazionale della Formazione (CIF), was held in Bangalore, India, from 16 to 23 November 2025. The Course for Formators of the Society of St Paul began on the inaugural day with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Bishop Lawrence Pius, Bishop of Dharmapuri. Following the Mass, Bishop Lawrence delivered the keynote address, setting the tone for the week-long programme.
The week consisted of intensive and enriching sessions facilitated by several qualified and experienced resource persons. These experts guided the participants on various aspects of formation, particularly emphasising the growth and nurturing of vocations. Throughout the sessions, the participants actively shared their insights, reflections, and experiences, significantly enriching the learning process.
Several themes were presented, including Spirituality and Identity of the Formator, The Pauline Formator as a Person of the Word and the Eucharist, and other topics essential for the mission of formation within the Pauline Family. Each topic helped to deepen the participants’ understanding of their role as formators and strengthened their commitment to accompany young candidates on their vocational journey.
The closing reflection delivered by Rev. Fr Domenico Soliman, SSP, Superior General of the Society of St Paul, provided a potent synthesis of the course themes. He anchored the Pauline Vocation in the contemporary reality of new media and digital technologies. In conclusion, Fr Soliman’s reflection served as a mandate: Formators are called to develop future Paulines who possess a stable inner identity, live with integral maturity, and embrace the global mission with profound solidarity, all while expertly navigating and sanctifying the world of new media and digital technologies.
Fr Johnson Vattakunnel, the President of CIF, gave the closing remarks to wrap up the entire course. He highlighted the various topics covered and sincerely thanked the members for their assistance in organising this significant event of the Society of St Paul.
After a week of intense sessions, the final day was dedicated to relaxation and fraternity with a picnic, allowing participants to explore the Garden City of India – Bengaluru. This outing brought joy, fun, and stronger bonding among the group.
