NEWS

South Asia Formation Commission Trains Formators Towards Affective Maturity
The South Asian Formation Commission (SAFC) conducted a five-day training programme on Formation towards Affective Maturity at the Don Bosco Provincial House, Chennai, from August 7–11, bringing together 38 priests and nuns serving as formators in novitiates and other formation houses across various congregations. The programme centred on familiarising participants with a newly designed manual for novices on psycho-sexual and celibate integration.
The event opened on August 7 with the inaugural Eucharist celebrated by Father Biju Michael, Regional Councillor for South Asia, who underscored that affective maturity is achieved when thoughts, words, and actions align harmoniously with God’s will.
Resource persons included Father Joy Kaipan and Sister Josmy Jose, authors of the manual, alongside Father Johny Nedungat, a trained counsellor. Father Kaipan addressed topics such as human sexuality, sexual orientation, and celibate living, stressing that only integrated persons can form integrated individuals in formation settings. Sister Josmy focused on emotional health, self-awareness, and gender sensitivity. At the same time, Father Johny tackled themes related to managing sexual feelings and overcoming challenges in this area, offering practical tools for living a sexually integrated life.
On the final day, Father Banzelao Teixeira, South Asian Formation Delegate, concluded the programme with sessions on respecting boundaries, the preventive system, and fostering growth in affective maturity.
Participants described the training as deeply enriching. “The content was complemented with real-life examples and experiences, making it highly relevant and impactful,” noted Father William David.