(India) The 20th formees gathering of the Liguori Province was held at Redemptorist Renewal Centre (RRC), Kottayam, Kerala, from 27th to 30 May 2023. There were thirty-six participants from different stages of formation, from Orientation to Pastoral year. The gathering began with the inaugural address of Fr. Poly Kannampuzha, the Provincial Superior, where he stressed the importance of making use of the years of formation for a holistic growth in Religious life.
Silver Jubilee celebrations of both ordination and religious life, felicitation to the newly ordained priests, and Minor Orders of theology students were the highlights of the gathering. Three confreres, Frs. Kurvila Marottickal, Tomy Kizhakkethundathil, and Nicklavose Punnackal celebrated their Silver Jubilee of the priesthood and Frs. Poly Kannampuzha, Sijo Thaliath, and Ciya Pulluthuruthiyil celebrated the Silver Jubilee of the profession. The Five newly ordained priests were felicitated in the presence of their parents. Six theology students received minor orders from His Excellency Mar Sebastian Vaniyapurackal.
The gathering was a time of learning as well. There were input sessions on varied topics by different resource persons. Outdoor games and organized recreation were moments of bonding that helped the formees to build up solidarity and friendship among them.
Fr. Shijo Meppilly C.Ss.R.