The West Zone’s Service of Faith Commission, led by Fr James Vaz, SJ (GUJ), Fr Joe Monteiro, SJ (GOA), Fr Joe Gaikwad, SJ (PUNE), and Fr Wesley D’Costa, SJ (BOM), organized a 3-day seminar at Xavier Retreat House, Baga, Goa, from 15-17 January 2024.

Forty participants from Gujarat, Goa, Pune, and Bombay attended the training program tailored for those engaged in pastoral ministry. Fr Vincent Saldanha, SJ served as the main resource person, with additional sessions led by Fr Wesley D’Costa, SJ. The theme, ‘Ignatian Leadership, Evangelisation, and Synodality’, guided the seminar’s focus.

Fr Roland Coelho, SJ, the Provincial of Goa, presided over the Eucharist. The seminar included input sessions, time for personal prayer time, and group spiritual conversations. Participants found the overall experience delightful and enriching, emphasizing its positive impact on both learning and fellowship. The seminar not only enhanced skills but also strengthened the sense of community among the diverse group. It seemed to have achieved the West Zone Faith Commission’s goal of providing valuable training for those involved in pastoral ministry.

– Wesley D’Costa, SJ (BOM)