The course, which began with an introductory session by Fr Stefano Martoglio, Vicar of the Rector Major (art. 143 SDB Const.), consists of input on key topics such as Salesian consecrated life, the Preventive System as our style of formation, accompaniment and discernment, affective and sexual maturity and formation in mission, but will give much attention to the person of the novice director and the building up of skills in listening and spiritual accompaniment. The method is experiential and reflective, with much room for prayer, mutual interaction and sharing.
The Salesian Congregation has 410 novices spread acrsoss 31 novitiates in the current year 2024: 10 in the Africa – Madagascar region, 7 in the East Asia – Oceania region, 6 in the South Asia region, 3 in the America South Cone region, 3 in the Interamerica region, 1 in the Mediterranean region and 1 in the Central and Northern Europe region.
The last such course was held at Via della Pisana in 2016. At the time there were 40 novitiates, and the course was held in two sessions, one in English and the other in Italian. This time the course is being held in a single session with the assistance of translators.
https://www.infoans.org/en/sections/news/item/22761-italy-novice-directors-course-at-genzano-rome#sigProId41f5d7f3e1
