Dindigul, August 11, 2026: The Claretian Province of Chennai conducted its Provincial Assembly 2026 at LIFE, Dindigul, from 10 to 11 August 2026, bringing together 75 Claretians for two days of prayer, reflection, formation, sharing and fraternal communion. The Assembly provided an important platform for the members of the Province to reflect on their missionary identity, apostolic commitments, community life and emerging pastoral challenges.

            The first day began with Morning Prayer and Holy Mass. The Assembly officially commenced at 9.00 a.m. with the enthronement of the Bible, followed by a session on “Mystical Missionaries,” led by Fr. S. Devadoss CMF. The session invited the participants to deepen their understanding of the missionary vocation as one rooted in a profound relationship with God. This was followed by a session entitled “A Treasure to Share,” presented by Fr. S. Stanislaus CMF, which focused on the richness of the missionary vocation and the responsibility of sharing the gifts received with others. In the afternoon, group report presentations, clarifications and contributions provided an opportunity for the members to share their experiences, insights and reflections. The first day concluded with a session on “The Role of the Superior,” facilitated by Fr. S. Devadoss CMF, followed by the Rosary.

              The second day commenced with Morning Prayer, meditation and Holy Mass. The morning sessions focused on various dimensions of the Province’s mission and apostolate. The participants first reflected on the XXVII General Chapter, presented by Frs. John Kennedy CMF, Jerone CMF and Ulagaraja CMF. This was followed by a presentation on Mission Procure by Fr. Louis Franklin CMF. The programme continued with presentations on Economy and Apostolate by Fr. John Kennedy CMF and Fr. Michael Francis CMF, respectively. The sessions highlighted the importance of responsible stewardship of resources and its connection with the effective fulfilment of the missionary apostolate. This was followed by a presentation on the Family Apostolate by Fr. Paul Jayaseelan CMF. His presentation emphasised the importance of accompanying families and strengthening the Church’s mission through meaningful pastoral engagement with family life. The participants were subsequently introduced to CICOP – Claret Institute of Counselling and Psychotherapy by Fr. Rudolf CMF. The presentation highlighted the relevance of counselling and psychological accompaniment in responding to the personal, family and pastoral challenges encountered in contemporary ministry.

               The afternoon session was dedicated to Common Issues, providing space for the members of the Province to discuss matters of common concern, share their experiences and explore possible ways forward. The open discussion fostered fraternity, mutual understanding and collective discernment among the participants. The Assembly concluded with tea and departure at 4.00 p.m.

              The two-day Provincial Assembly of the Claretian Province of Chennai thus became a significant moment of communion, participation and mission. Through prayer, formation, apostolic presentations and open dialogue, the 75 participants reflected together on the present realities of the Province and explored ways to respond more effectively to the needs of the Church and society. The Assembly also provided an opportunity to strengthen the Province’s commitment to missionary spirituality, responsible administration, family ministry, psychological accompaniment and collaborative discernment, encouraging every member to renew his commitment to the Claretian mission. The Provincial Assembly 2026 concluded with a renewed spirit of fraternity and missionary commitment, calling the members of the Province of Chennai to walk together, discern together and serve together in the spirit of St. Anthony Mary Claret.

Reported By:
Fr. A. Kulandai Yesu Rajan CMF