The gathering brought together Coordinators, Delegates, and Formation Leaders from the region's provinces. The agenda included plenary sessions and group work, all focused on understanding the new aspirant formation project titled “Initial Formation: the Path and the Project.”
Antonio Boccia, World Coordinator of the Association, delivered a keynote address offering a global perspective on the strategic role of initial formation. He emphasized the lay nature of the association, highlighted the key roles of formators and delegates, and reinforced the importance of belonging and active participation in the association’s life.
The New Formation Project
The newly developed Initial Formation Project was presented as the result of extensive study, discussion, and discernment by a team of Salesian Cooperators and regional delegates. The project is structured into broad thematic areas, modules, and stages. Participants unanimously agreed on the value of building upon the prior work initiated at the 2018 Regional Formation Meeting in Belluno and integrating materials developed over the years by individual provinces and the Iberian Region.
The methodology used in drafting the project was particularly praised. It involved active participation from a coordinating team and an expanded team, with all members contributing at different stages to the project's development, refinement, and structuring.
Participants were especially engaged by the presentation of best practices, the defined timelines, and the implementation methods. The meeting reaffirmed the vocational choice of the Salesian Cooperator and the importance of personal faith formation. A central aspect of initial formation is discernment, for which a dedicated section has been provided.
Project of Apostolic Life
Building on the Project of Apostolic Life, the aspirant’s journey is entrusted to local centers, with collaboration from the Provincial Council, including formation for formators and provincial-level gatherings for aspirants. One highly appreciated aspect was the introduction of a Formator’s Guide, which provides methodological resources along with practical worksheets for each stage of the process.
The event concluded with the official handover of the “Project of Life – The Aspirant’s Journey” to provincial formation leaders. This document serves as a toolkit to be studied and adapted, ensuring it becomes a valuable resource for local formators.
This milestone marks the beginning of a structured formation process, involving all stakeholders through training, guidance, and evaluation.
The meeting was enriched by moments of formation, sharing, prayer, and the celebration of the Eucharist. A special highlight was the “Good Night” talk given by Sr. Mercedes, Delegate for the Middle East. This Regional Consultation, extended to formators and delegates, was an inspiring experience, fostering a family spirit, deep relationships, meaningful content, and joyful interactions.
