Formators and Bishops Chart Synodal Path for Priestly Formation at Srinagar Programme

Srinagar, June 30, 2026: Formators and bishops from the Holy Trinity Regional Major Seminary, Jalandhar, concluded a three-day refresher programme in Srinagar with a renewed commitment to shaping seminarians into compassionate, spiritually rooted and missionary priests through a synodal approach to formation.

Held from June 23 to 25 at the Pastoral Centre, Srinagar, the annual programme brought together 17 seminary formators and six bishops from the region. Hosted by the Diocese of Jammu–Kashmir, the programme was animated by Fr. Jacob Parapally, MSFS, and Fr. Charles Leon.

Centred on the theme of forming priests with the Heart of Jesus—open, humble, missionary and synodal—the gathering emphasised that authentic priestly formation begins with the personal conversion of the formator. Participants reflected that only formators who themselves undergo continual transformation can effectively form priests capable of responding to the pastoral challenges of today's Church.

Prayer, the Eucharist and moments of reflective sharing formed the spiritual foundation of the programme. Discussions highlighted humility, empathy, simplicity, patience and pastoral care as indispensable qualities for those entrusted with seminary formation. Participants also stressed the importance of nurturing a deep relationship with the Triune God through the Eucharist, Sacred Scripture, silence and the study of the YOUCAT.

The programme opened with the celebration of the Eucharist presided over by Archbishop Anil Couto of Delhi, while Bishop Ivan Pereira of Jammu–Kashmir welcomed the participants and addressed the inaugural session.

Throughout the three days, the resource persons encouraged a shift in priestly formation from theoretical instruction to a lived encounter with Christ. Seminarians, they said, must learn to recognise the Lord not only in prayer but also in the poor, the suffering and the ordinary experiences of daily life.

Participants also reflected on the need to move beyond authority-centred models of formation towards a culture of accompaniment marked by attentive listening, spiritual conversation, discernment and respectful guidance.

Human formation and emotional maturity emerged as key priorities. The discussions underscored the need to foster self-awareness, healthy relationships and personal growth, enabling future priests to minister with compassion and authenticity.

Synodality featured prominently in the deliberations, with participants advocating formation rooted in dialogue, shared responsibility and active participation in community life. They also highlighted the value of engaging parents and people of other faith traditions while cultivating trust, openness and mutual respect within seminary communities.

The programme proposed a renewed vision for the 2026–27 formation year, envisioning priests who are spiritually grounded, emotionally mature, compassionate, respectful and missionary in outlook. Participants described the priest as a bridge between God and His people, called to serve with humility, listen with openness and accompany others with Christ-like compassion.

The gathering concluded with an outing to Baramulla, Gulmarg and the Kashmir Valley, providing participants an opportunity to strengthen fraternity and fellowship. The annual programme was coordinated by Fr. Soosainathan and Fr. John Manathanath.

By Catholic Connect Reporter