Yesterday and today saw the debates focus on the issues of training and administration. Yesterday, as every evening, the tireless drafting team worked late into the night to produce a synthesis of the group work. This morning, before going back to the groups, the meeting began with a plenary session to exchange and clarify the question of welcoming vocations and others.

In fact, formation already begins with the precious work of the vocation director. He is an essential link in the formation process. He is the first formal contact that introduces the young person called to the mysterious twists and turns of the consecrated life in general and the SMA in particular. His initial work, like an orientation counselor, allows the candidate to make a first choice with a free and joyful heart. Bishop de Marion de Brésillac asked these questions that have become emblematic: “What are you looking for? Honors? Don’t come here! The joys of ministry? Don’t come here! Friendship, recognition, consolation? Don’t come here! But if you are looking for Jesus, Jesus alone, poor Jesus, humbled Jesus, crucified Jesus, ah! Come then! Hurry and run after Him! Come” (Retreat to Missionaries, India 1849).

 Pierre-Paul DOSSEKPLI