Young Clergy Formation: Growing Together in Ministry and Fraternity

Chikkamagaluru: The Archdiocese of Bangalore organised a four-day ongoing formation programme for its young clergy at Spoorthi Sadana, Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Chikkamagaluru, from 28 September to 1 October 2026. The programme brought together 55 young priests of the Archdiocese for a time of learning, reflection, prayer, fraternity and renewal in ministry.

The initiative was envisioned by Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore, as part of the Archdiocese’s commitment to the continuing formation of its young priests. The programme, held twice every year under the guidance and leadership of Auxiliary Bishop Rt. Rev. Arokiaraj Sathish Kumar, seeks not only to update priests in areas relevant to their pastoral responsibilities but also to strengthen a culture of accompaniment, friendship and brotherhood among the clergy. 

Formation for the realities of today 

The four-day programme addressed a wide range of pastoral, administrative, personal and contemporary concerns faced by priests in their ministry. The sessions included effective functioning of commissions in parishes, expectations from auditors and medical insurance, tribunal proceedings, parish and institutional financial management, handling criticism, making Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC) effective, online scams, artificial intelligence tools and health awareness. 

The sessions were conducted by priests and resource persons with experience in different areas of pastoral ministry and administration. The programme encouraged the young priests to look beyond the routine responsibilities of parish life and to recognise the changing needs of the people entrusted to their care. 

Speaking about the purpose of the initiative, Archbishop Peter Machado emphasised the importance of continuing formation for priests. He encouraged the young clergy to remain open to learning, faithful to their vocation and close to the people, reminding them that priestly ministry is a lifelong journey of growth, service and accompaniment. “A priest never stops learning. Ongoing formation helps us to renew our commitment, understand the changing realities of our people and serve the Church with greater wisdom, compassion and hope,” the Archbishop said. 

Accompaniment: Walking with One Another 

A distinctive feature of the programme was the emphasis on priestly companionship. The gathering provided the young clergy with an opportunity to meet, listen to one another, share experiences and rediscover the joy of walking together as brothers in the priesthood. Auxiliary Bishop Rt. Rev. Arokiaraj Sathish Kumar, who headed the initiative, highlighted that formation is not merely about acquiring knowledge but about growing together as priests. 

“Ongoing formation is not simply about updating our knowledge; it is about renewing our hearts for ministry. When priests listen to one another, accompany one another and walk together, no priest has to feel alone in his ministry,” he said. 

A Message from Auxiliary Bishop Susainathan 

On Tuesday, Auxiliary Bishop Rt. Rev. Joseph Susainathan visited the gathering and interacted with the young priests. He shared a message encouraging them to remain faithful to their priestly calling and to approach ministry with dedication, humility and a spirit of service.  

Growing Together Around the Eucharist 

The Holy Eucharist was celebrated each day, keeping Christ at the heart of the formation programme. The priests actively took part in preparing and organising the liturgy, making every celebration a joyful expression of faith and priestly fraternity. Archbishop Peter Machado also celebrated the Eucharist and offered prayers for the Archdiocese, its priests and faithful, and their intentions. The time spent together beyond the sessions—sharing meals, conversations and moments of friendship—helped the priests grow closer and experience the joy of walking together as brothers. 

The programme concluded with Archbishop Peter Machado listening to the concerns, experiences and suggestions of the young priests and encouraging them to continue their ministry with faith, courage and hope. The four days at Spoorthi Sadana were more than a time of formation; they became an opportunity to pray together, learn from one another, share their journey and renew their commitment to Christ and His people. As the priests returned to their respective ministries, they carried with them renewed energy, stronger friendships and the comforting reminder that they do not walk alone. Together, they move forward with hope, joy and a renewed heart for service.