Two Months of pastoral visitation, meeting and traveling passed very fast. Two months of encountering and dialoguing with the friars to know them and their life projects. Two months of personal encounter with more than 300 friars to hear and listen to their aspirations and hopes. Two months of getting to know the Capuchin life and pastoral activities. Two months of walking with the dreams and agendas of each good meaning capuchin friars. To hear and listen to their suggestions, fears and expectations. All friars are happy and contended to be Capuchins in Indian context. Practically all of them willing to give their best in all the fields. Ready to contribute their share in building the Kingdom of God being a Capuchin. The presence of Capuchins in India is strong and very much felt in the Catholic Church. The friars are wanted and being looked for ministry and pastoral activities. The Capuchins have something special to the Indian Church. The friars are talented and intelligent who can shine out in any field. The good number of good preachers in various provinces is a big gift for the Church in India. The friars who can make a difference in the life of unfortunate men and women through charitable services are outstanding. The various homes for the abandoned and poor do really speak of the Capuchin commitment to the poor and marginalized. In Kerala there are good number of migrants from other parts of India who find work are many. They are a big work force and the church has already started doing something of these people. The Capuchins are also collaborating and rendering their support to the church in serving these people.
A rich experience after the visitation. The fraternal welcome and hospitality was simply mind-blowing and heart warming. The rich sharing of the experiences from the part of the friar was unique experience. You get to learn a lot from the senior friars who have lived a long life serving the Capuchin brotherhood. They see a bright future for Capuchins in India provided the friars remain faithful to the Capuchin Charism and spirituality.
The Capuchins are full of promises and possibilities. The provinces are blessed with many good and solid vocations. The formation program is good but needs a change in today's context and challenges.
It was a long journey back to Rome. From Cochin to Delhi. A long wait and then re-shceduling of the flight to Rome. Thanks to Custos of Prem Jyoti who welcomed me to his Curia. He came to receive me at the airport at 11pm.
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