Dimapur, 2 September 2023 – The Don Bosco Provincial House in Dimapur, Nagaland, served as the backdrop for a significant gathering of young priests from Dimapur Province on August 31 and September 1, 2023. The two-day quinquennium meetings brought together 21 participants representing various priestly batches, creating a dynamic platform for reflection, growth, and skill development.
Day 1: Cultivating a Missionary Spirit
The inaugural day of the event was marked by a spiritually enriching session led by Fr. Paul Panachikal SDB, hailing from Shillong Province. Fr. Panachikal animated the young priests on the vital themes of mission, the call to be missionaries, the pursuit of holiness in life, identifying mission focus, and giving one’s best in the service of the Church and society. His insightful guidance aimed to instill a profound sense of purpose and dedication among the young clergy.
Day 2: Nurturing Administrative Competence
The second day witnessed an intensive programme designed to enhance the administrative acumen of the participants. The first session was conducted by Fr. Vice Provincial, providing valuable insights into young priests’ lives. Subsequently, the spotlight shifted to Fr. Benny James SDB, the Provincial Economer, who, along with his team, facilitated hands-on training sessions. Young priests were given practical exposure to managing Tally, the province’s data management software, crafting budgets, processing salaries, and exploring various administrative intricacies associated with the office of the administrator’s office.
Closing Remarks: Focusing on the Greater Good
The concluding moments of the quinquennium meetings were graced by Fr. Benny James SDB, who provided a comprehensive overview of various aspects of the province. He highlighted the province’s efforts to support and empower houses situated on the peripheries, underlining the commitment to the welfare of sick confreres. The gathering left the young priests with a renewed sense of purpose, both in their missionary endeavours and their roles in the administrative machinery of the province.
The Dimapur Province Young Priests’ Quinquennium Meetings were not only an opportunity for spiritual growth but also a platform for fostering administrative competence among the clergy. The event’s success underlined the commitment of Dimapur Province to nurturing a new generation of priests who are equipped to carry forward the mission of Don Bosco with zeal and efficiency.
(IND Webmaster)
