Ranchi Hosts Annual Minory Seminary Rectors’ Meet to Strengthen Formation

Ranchi, 21 February 2025 – Seminary rectors and formators from five states gathered at St. Albert’s College, Ranchi, for the Annual Minor Seminary and Propedeutic Rectors’ Meeting on February 20, focusing on the challenges of priestly formation in today’s context.  

The meeting, led by Rev. Fr. Ajay Kumar Xaxlo, Rector of SAC, brought together 22 participants from Jharkhand, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal. Discussions centred on revitalising seminary training to better prepare future priests for their pastoral responsibilities.  

The event opened with a Holy Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Pradeep Minj, Director of Livens Orientation House, Brambe. In his homily, he underscored the importance of discernment in priestly formation. “Life is precious. We must seek God’s guidance to identify our purpose and responsibilities,” he said.  

A keynote address by Rev. Fr. Mathew Azhakath OCD, Delegate Provincial of the Malabar Province for the Ranchi Region, outlined key aspects shaping seminary formation. He emphasised the need for a renewed spiritual foundation among clergy, urging formators to foster a deep personal relationship with God in those they guide. He also stressed that initial formation plays a critical role in shaping a priest’s vocation.  

Archbishop Vincent Aind DD, Chancellor of SAC, called for a more holistic approach to training future priests. “We must strive together to ensure meaningful formation. Let the spark become a flame,” he said, encouraging collaborative efforts to strengthen seminarian development.  

Throughout the meeting, moderated by Rev. Fr. Michael Deogam of the Jamshedpur Diocese, rectors shared insights and best practices. Discussions covered pressing issues in seminary training, from spiritual renewal to the evolving role of clergy in contemporary society.  

The deliberations were documented by Rev. Fr. Raiman Tobias Toppo and Rev. Fr. Henry Bright, CPPS, ensuring key takeaways would contribute to future strategies. The gathering concluded with a vote of thanks from Fr. Alok Toppo, reaffirming a shared commitment to strengthening seminary formation in the region.  

By Fr. Alok Toppo, SAC, Ranchi