The group of Dehonian religious who are in Rome for the fourth Formation Course for Dehonian Formators, developed by the general government, completed the first part of their journey on 8th February. This section had lessons primarily prepared by the Generalate. There were a variety of topics, the majority of which focused on our founder (Father Dehon), our Charism and their direct relationship with elements of our Congregation. Lessons were also given on psychological aspects, and on self-knowledge through the Anthropology of the Christian Vocation according to the perspective of Fr. Rulla with the possibility of personal accompaniment for vocational growth. We have entered the current context of Consecrated Life with a broad reflection on encouragement, and had the opportunity to dialogue with the Prefect of the Congregation for Consecrated Life, Cardinal Joao Braz de Aviz. Also, there was a course on digital media and the challenges of this sphere in our lives, as well as an opportunity to deepen knowledge of the theme of the abuses of vulnerable persons in the Church.
This formation program takes part within the Community of the General House and thus participants have been a part of the regular life of prayer, sharing and synodality, while also cultivating opportunities to make dinner together or to celebrate Mass as a group.
On 18 February the formation group began a second stage of the journey, following a proposal for ongoing formation at the Salesian Pontifical University.
We thank Father Zeferino Policarpo for his excellent preparation of this course and for his dedication in meeting our needs.
Our thanks to everyone. We ask for your prayers for the group of formators and the students of the different entities.