27–28 February 2026 | Institute Mater Dei (IMD), Old Goa
In a time marked by polarization, rapid change, and deep social fragmentation, the Church in India gathered to reflect, discern, and renew her commitment to authentic formation. The National Conference on Formation 2026,
organised by Institute Mater Dei (IMD), a Unit of CRWI, in collaboration with the CCBI Commission for Vocations, Seminaries and Clergy Formation, was held on 27–28 February 2026 at Santa Monica Convent, Old Goa.
Under the theme “Connectedness in a Fragmented World – A Path for Formation 2035,” the conference brought together rectors, religious formators, theologians, priests, sisters, and
pastoral leaders from across India for two days of prayer, reflection, dialogue, and synodal discernment.
Rooted in the Eucharist: Communion as Foundation
The conference began with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa and Daman and President of the CCBI and FABC.
Reflecting on the readings from Acts, Corinthians, and the Gospel of John, the Cardinal reminded participants that unity is not uniformity but communion—participation in the very life of the Trinity.
He emphasized that fragmentation today is not only social and political but also deeply personal—affecting identity, relationships, and spiritual maturity. Formation,
herefore, must become a space where what is scattered is gently gathered and healed in Christ.
A Vision for Formation 2035
In her Presidential Address, Sr. Aruna Jose CHF, Vice President of CRWI and President of IMD,
spoke of the paradox of our times: never have we been so digitally connected,
yet so internally divided. She called for formation that integrates the human, spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and pastoral dimensions of life.
Formation, she reminded participants, cannot be reduced to structures or academic achievement.
It must nurture emotionally mature, spiritually grounded, socially sensitive, and mission-oriented persons who can stand
firmly in complex environments without losing their center in Christ.
Theological and Pastoral Foundations
Fr. Joseph Lobo SJ offered a rich theological reflection on connectedness as an ecclesial and pastoral imperative.
He urged formation houses to move beyond compartmentalization toward communion forming ministers who understand interdependence within the Body of Christ.
Through dialogue and consensus-building exercises, participants explored practical ways of fostering connectedness within formation communities.
Listening to the Signs of the Times
A significant highlight of the conference was the socio-political and cultural analysis presented by Fr. Suresh Mathew OFM Cap, journalist and editor.
His presentation addressed the present challenges facing constitutional values, religious freedom, and the safety of minority institutions in India.
The session invited participants to recognize that formation today must prepare future ministers not only for sacramental service but also for prophetic
witness grounded in faith, courage, and constitutional awareness.
Healing Fragmentation: Pastoral-Psychological Insights
Sr. Anna Mary Thumma SCCJ, Director of the Institute for Formators, Hyderabad, provided deep pastoral-psychological
insights into the crisis of trust, emotional fragility, and relational wounds affecting many young candidates.
She emphasized that grace builds on nature and that authentic formation requires attention to emotional maturity,
healthy relationships, and integration of human sciences. The formator, she noted, must first be a person of deep
prayer and ongoing self-formation.
Synodal Journey and Action Plan
The conference adopted a synodal method of listening, group discernment, and plenary sharing.
Participants collectively articulated priorities for Formation 2035, including:
- Integral and interdisciplinary formation
- Synodal leadership and shared responsibility
- Intercultural competence
- Safeguarding and trust-building
- Ongoing formation of formators
The final plenary session consolidated these reflections into a forward-looking action plan.
A Moment of Grace and Commitment
The conference concluded with a valedictory session graced by Fr. Joaquim Fernandes SVD, Episcopal Vicar for Religious, Archdiocese of Goa and Daman.
Participants expressed gratitude for the spirit of communion experienced during the two days.
More than a conference, these days became a moment of grace
an invitation to allow the Lord to join the “two sticks” of our fragmented realities into deeper unity.
As we journey toward Formation 2035, CRWI and IMD reaffirm
their commitment to nurturing ministers who embody connectedness, communion, courage, and hope in a fragmented world.