Introduction to the Workshop
From November 19th to 23rd, 2024, the Trichy Salesian Province organized a five-day workshop on Spiritual Direction at Alaihal-Don Bosco, Manikandam, Trichy. This program, aimed at enhancing the spiritual and leadership capacities of the participants, was led by Fr. Sundar Wilson OFM, an expert in the integration of psychology and spirituality. The workshop is part of a broader ten-day initiative to provide structured formation for the Province’s leaders, with the remaining five days scheduled for February 2025.
The Importance of Spiritual Direction
Spiritual direction is essential for the personal and professional growth of individuals, particularly those in religious life. It nurtures a sense of happiness and fulfillment in one’s vocation, fostering enthusiasm and effectiveness in ministry. Moreover, the ability to guide others spiritually is a cornerstone of effective leadership, requiring not just skill but also a deeply rooted disposition of the heart. Recognizing this, the workshop emphasized equipping leaders with practical skills to enhance their ministry and relationships.
Details of the Training
The workshop brought together 36 Salesians, including the Provincial, Fr. Agilan, Vice-Provincial, Fr. Xavier Michael, and Economer, Fr. Amaladoss. Under the guidance of Fr. Sundar Wilson, participants engaged in four 90-minute sessions daily, focusing on various aspects of spiritual direction. The first two days were dedicated to self-awareness and developing listening skills, while subsequent sessions introduced practical techniques for spiritual guidance. Participants were encouraged to practice these techniques over the next three months in preparation for the second stint of training.
About the Animator, Fr. Sundar Wilson
Fr. Sundar Wilson OFM, a Franciscan priest from the Amala Annai Province, brought immense expertise to the workshop. With over three decades of experience as a counselor and psychotherapist, he specializes in blending psychology and spirituality for holistic growth. He currently serves as the Assistant Director of Anugraha, an Institute for Counselling, Psychotherapy, and Research, and holds advanced degrees in pastoral counseling and psychology. His dynamic sessions provided a unique blend of practical and theoretical insights, making the training highly impactful.
Impact and Conclusion
The workshop provided participants with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of spiritual direction while fostering self-reflection and improved interpersonal skills. Beyond being a training event, it also served as a live-in experience, strengthening the bonds among the leaders of the Province. This initiative underscores the Province’s commitment to the ongoing formation and development of its leaders, ensuring they are well-equipped to guide and inspire others in their ministry.