Formation of Priests and Religious, Recollection and Retreats Commission

Nurturing the Soul of the Church

The strength and future of the Church depend greatly on the holiness and formation of her priests and religi

Welcome to our Children’s Ministry, where we nurture the spiritual growth of our youngest members in a fun and engaging environment. Our programs are designed to teach children about the love of Jesus through interactive Bible stories, worship, crafts, and games. We aim to create a safe and welcoming space where children can develop their faith, make new friends, and build a strong foundation in Christian values. Our dedicated team of volunteers is passionate about guiding each child on their spiritual journey. Join us and let your child experience the joy and excitement of learning about God’s love!

Kids learn about Jesus through interactive Bible stories, worship, crafts, and games. Our dedicated volunteers provide a safe space for children to grow in faith, make friends, and build a foundation in Christian values.

Whether it’s through Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, or special events throughout the year, our goal is to support and inspire each child to grow closer to God and to understand His immense love for them. Join us and watch your child thrive in a community that celebrates their unique gifts and encourages their spiritual growth.

ous. The Formation of Priests and Religious, Recollection and Retreats Commission is entrusted with the sacred responsibility of supporting those called to serve at the altar and in consecrated life. It ensures their ongoing spiritual growth, pastoral renewal, and personal well-being.

This commission is not only about training minds, but it is about shaping hearts after the heart of Christ, the Good Shepherd.

A Life Set Apart for God

Priests and religious are not just functionaries or administrators. They are shepherds, intercessors, spiritual fathers and mothers, called to reflect Christ’s love in the world. Their journey of formation doesn’t end at ordination or final vows. It is a lifelong process of conversion, prayer, and service.

This commission walks with them in that journey through recollections, retreats, and formative sessions that renew their vocation and deepen their intimacy with God.

Key Areas of Ministry

1. Ongoing Formation of Priests and Religious:

The commission organises regular formation programs on theology, pastoral care, emotional intelligence, and current issues affecting ministry. These sessions offer reflection, renewal, and fraternity among clergy and consecrated persons.

2. Monthly and Annual Recollections:

Monthly recollections are opportunities for silence, prayer, and spiritual input. They help clergy and religious pause amid busy schedules to reconnect with the Lord and one another. Annual retreats provide more extended spiritual nourishment and personal reflection.

3. Retreat Animation for Others:

The commission also arranges and animates retreats for various groups—laity, youth, families, catechists, and seminarians—responding to the broader need for spiritual renewal across the Diocese.

4. Spiritual Direction and Counselling:

Individual spiritual direction is encouraged and offered, especially for those struggling with burnout, loneliness, or moral challenges. The commission works confidentially and pastorally to strengthen those who feel burdened or lost.

5. Promotion of Clergy Well-being:

Priests and religious face increasing stress and expectations. The commission is attentive to their overall well-being—spiritually, mentally, and emotionally—offering a safe and supportive space for dialogue and healing.

Forming Holy and Joyful Servants

The goal is not perfection, but holiness. Holiness is rooted in humility, pastoral zeal, and deep friendship with Christ. We believe that a renewed priest or religious becomes a source of renewal for the whole Church.

As St. John Vianney, the patron of priests, said:

“The priest is not for himself, he is for you.”
Our mission is to help form such priests and religious who will give themselves joyfully, totally, and faithfully.

This ministry is the quiet heartbeat behind the public face of the Church.