Dindigul, India - September 2023 - The Quinquennium meeting, a gathering of new priests from the Chennai and Trichy Salesian provinces, was held at the Life Center in Dindigul on the 7th and 8th of September 2023. This two-day event brought together 36 young confreres who are in their first and second years of priesthood.
During this significant gathering, Fr. John Alexander, INM Vice Provincial, Fr. Agilan Sarprasadam, INT Provincial, Fr. Xavier Michael, INT Vice Provincial, and Fr. Rudolf, a Claretian priest were the resource persons.
The first day of the meeting saw Fr. Rudolf engaging the group with thought-provoking discussions on topics related to psycho-sexual integration and psycho-spiritual integration. Drawing from his rich experiences in clinical counseling and therapy, he provided valuable insights enriching the knowledge and understanding of the participants.
Moments of prayer, including Lauds, Vespers, and the Holy Eucharist, were celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. The active participation of the young confreres during these sessions added to the spiritual vitality of the gathering.
The second day was dedicated to group discussions and open floor sharing moderated by Fr. John Alexander, creating a space for the new priests to express their thoughts and concerns. Several key questions were addressed, such as the joyful and challenging experiences in Salesian and priestly life, the joys and challenges of Salesian life and mission in communities and provinces, ways in which young priests can enhance religious life and mission in the province and identifying priority areas for the province's focus in the next five years.
The new priests actively participated, offering valuable suggestions and insights that enriched the discussion. The diversity of perspectives brought forth innovative ideas and potential solutions, making the panel discussion and question-and-answer session a truly enlightening and thought-provoking exchange of knowledge and expertise.
As the Quinquennium meeting concluded, the young confreres carried with them the collective wisdom and renewed vigour to continue the Salesian mission in their respective communities and provinces.