SGC_Doc13_Formation


SGC_Doc13_Formation

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FOURTH SECTION
Our formation
Document 13
FORIVIATION FOR
SALESIAN WAY OF LIFE

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INTRODUCTION
1. The Present Situation
6s7
The rapid evolution of society, which often happens
in a disorderly fashion, together with the ensuing change
of mentalities and of structures, makes a profound im-
pression on the formation of candidates to the salesian
life, and on salesians themselves. The young men in
formation some more some less reflect the situation and
problems of the world today.l
In general the climate in our houses of formation is
much the same as that prevailing in the majority of
similar institutions: we find a spirit of generosity, sin-
cerity, authenticity, awareness of the needs of the con-
temporary world, eagerness for freedom, fear of being
psychologically conditioned by houses of formation, in-
tolerance of rules and of any authority that is not fraternal,
thirsting for experiences and yet fearful of being cut off
from life, hesitation to become involved in ties that bind
too far into the future, lack of an authentic apostolic
mystique, which provokes, as a reaction, an activism that
often ignores or fails to understand recollection, silence,
prayer; little appreciation for study that is not regarded
as 'pastoral.' z
Hence it is not easy for those responsible for form-
ation to fulfil their delicate task. It becomes more dif-
ficult when there is no continuous atmosphere of family
spirit reigning between confrdres in formation and those
I Cf Relazione generale sullo stato dell,a Congregazione'. Intro. 2
, Cf op. cit., p 63.
463

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responsible for formation, and when differences of opin-
ion and ways of acting increase and divide the members
of the staff themselves.
These and other difficulties, not always successfully
overcome, lead to the following consequences: the number
of confrdres, especially the young, who leave the Congre-
gation, increases.s The number of novices is very much
reduced in these last years.a There are young men who
do not find sufficient motivation to make up their minds
to enter the Congregation. Candidates for the aspiran-
tates in many provinces have dropped considerably in
number.5 Some have been closed.6
Though well aware of this alarming situation of world
proportions which intimately concerns the very life of
the Congregation, the Special General Chapter with an
optimistic eye considers what has been done, and fosters
the hope of resolving these problems positively, relying
on the good will of all, both of young men and of those
responsible for formation.
2. Scope of this document
6s8
As a help to the solution of the important problem
of formation, the Special General Chapter does not propose
to produce a general theoretical tract on human, christian,
religious and priestly formation. It merely wishes to give
the general outlines of a salesian 'Ratio Institutionis,' which
can be developed by the various provinces in agreement
with the norms of the local churches and the needs of
the various countries. Hence it merely indicates guide-
lines which, in the field of formation, allow for appiications
corresponding to the needs of our times, in fidelity to
Cf op. cit. , pp 33-34
Cf op. cit. ,p56.
Cf op. cit. ,p43.
Cf op. cit. ,p62.
464

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Christ, to the Church and to the genuine mind of Don
Bosco.T
In this task, the Special General Chapter has taken
as its starting point the diffrculties, the needs and the
aspirations that the confrdres expressed through tt,e Special,
Prouincial Chafters and the replies to 'Probletrus qnd
Possibitities.' Throughout the whole treatment of the
topic of formation, it has tried to bear in mind and answer
these vital questions raised by the Congregation. It has
studied both Vatican II and the post-conciliar documents.
It has wanted to be faithful to the mind of Don Bosco.
These are its central terms of reference.
3. lmportance of formation
6s9
The importance of formation is fundamental. On it
d.epends, to a large extent, the personal realization of
every salesian and the unity of spirit of the whole Congre-
gation. It has a decisive incidence on renewal because
'the suitable renewal of religious communities depends
very Iargely on the training of their members.' 8
It directly regards the personnel in formation, but
also whatever affects and concerns all the confrdres, for
each one at his own level is engaged in a process both
of continuous personal adaptation to the requirements of
our mission and of continuous spiritual growth, and is
also responsible for the vital communication of the sales-
ian mission and spirit by means of his owrr witness.
4. Formation centered on the salesian religious vocation
660
Throughout the entire period of formation the com-
mon elements and the basic principles of the salesian
religious life will be stressed in a really meaningful and
? Cf RC Intro
8 PC 18.
465

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coherent way. In fact both the brothers and the future
priests, each in his own way e all share in a full and identical
manner in the same salesian religiows uocation.
However, fidelity to this common vocation ought not to
prevent the states proper to the brother and to the priest
from being safeguarded.
In this document more insistence will be given to
formation to the common salesian vocation. However we
must not forget that whilst for the candidate to the
priestly life the Congregation is called above all to re-
structure or, better, to improve the formation curriculum
already
brotkers
laid down for
it is a, matter
the most part by the
uery olten ol bui,lding
Church; lor the
up, or ol eaen
creating tkat formation procedure that will guarantee the
harmonious and complete development of their human
and religious personality, in view of the educational and
apostolic mission to which they are called within the
Congregation.
, Cf LG 43.
466

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CHAPTER ONE
GENERAL ASPECTS OF
FORMATION
661
l. Eaery rnan receiaes lrorru God,, in a personal uay,
the inaitat'ion to make his orun being an kistorical, lree and,
responsible response to his creatiae and sauing act.r
Every vocation, as a manifestation of the incalculable
richness of God, ought to be profoundly esteemed and
cultivated with the greatest care.2
AII Christians, in virtue of their baptism and con-
fi.rmation, share in the priestly,3 prophetic a and royal
role 5 of Christ.6 To each one of them the Father confi.des
a particular task in the Church of Christ, which cor-
responds to a vocation in the midst of the People of God.
662
2. Tke Christ'ian, by m,eans ol an awthentic ed,ucation
in tke fa'ith, perceiaes in tke eaeryday reality ol his life,
read in, the light ol the gospel, kis own specifi.c aocation
'in the Chwrch.
Hence the essential of pastoral care of vocations is
an authentic christian education,T which enables the young
men to perceive in their ordinary lives, understood in
the light of the faith, their orvn specific vocation in
the Church.
I Cf PP 15.
2 Cl Relaziona op. cit., p 6.
3 cf LG 10, 34.
4 CI LG 12.
5CfPO2.
RF 5.
Cf OT 2
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Our Society, which has received the specific mission
of evangelizing youth, is called to realize this vocation
work within the Church. In a particular way, it has the
mission of helping youth to define their own position
and to discover their own roles in the human community
and in the Church.
Salesians should take special care to help in the
formation of those whom the Lord has called to a total
consecration to himself for an apostolic mission.s Provided
that a young man fi.nds it with the right conditions and
assistance,e the following can be suitable and sufficient
environments to foster the attainment of the level of
vocational maturity required for entry to the novitiate:
the family, the school, associations, and youth groups
of a formative and apostolic character.l0 The aspirantate,
as an environment characterized by an intense vocational
orientation, is still a valid form to help youth discover
their own vocation and consciously correspond with it.
Vocation orientation, whilst it achieves the fund-
amental aim of helping all boys to discover and develop
their own vocation, will still be the natural source of new
members for the Congregation.
663
3. Tke cand,id,ate to the salesian l,ife and the salesian
in formation, seek in tke Ckurch a, sure way and a stimulus
lor tke up-to-d.ate deaelopment ol their uocation.
The basic guide-line of the Church on the formation
of religious is that each institute must maintain and
dynamically develop in its members, according to its
particular character, the authentic spirit of its Founder
in line with its mission.ll
8CtPC24
,CfRC5.
RF7
r0 cf oT 2.
1I Cf PC 2; RC Intr
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These and other guide-lines given by the Church,
above all n. 18 of. Perlectae Caritatis, are to be borne
in mind and applied in the formation of salesian religious.lz
664
4. The candidates to the salesian lile and the salesian
in forrnation achieue their christian atr,d, religiows deaelop-
rnent fol,loaing tke supreme law of the gospel.r3
To follow Christ and imitate him is the fundamental
obligation of all the baptized, since it is through baptism
that they share in the very life of Christ.la To follow
Jesus more closely and to imitate him more perfectly is
a choice made by those baptized persons, yiz. religious,
who have received from God the special charism of the
religious vocation. This vocation is realized in a total
offering of themselves for a specifi.c mission of service to
men for the good of the Church; it does not represent an
exceptional gesture at all but is the constant rule of
their lives, lived not only afectiaely bttt also efectiuely,
i.e. in concrete and habitual forms of 1ife.15
The young salesian, a product of the times in which
he lives and works, must answer this specific call of God.
It is the task of his formation to help him in this complete
gift of himself to God by following and imitating Christ.
To achieve this, his formation must be centred on the
person and mystery o{ Christ, and founded on the mys-
tery of the Church and a living experience of faith.16
It must be carried out in a spirit of prayer and nourished
asatcrtehde sgcerinputuinreessaonudrcethseolfitucrhgryis,tiaanndsapbiroivtueaaliltlyt:he-
the
mys-
I Cf PC 18; RM ES OT RF; Ratio delle varie conferenze Epi-
scopali Nazionali.
r3 cf PC 2b.
r{ Cf Rom 6, 3-4.
rb Ct Per una presenza uiua de'i religiosi nella Chiesa e nel mond,o,
LDC pp 227-228.
16 cf sc 9.
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tery of the eucharist,l? the fount and apex of the christian
life.l8 Mary, most holy, ought also to be presented in
the mystery of the word incarnate and of the Church 10
and in her role of Help of Christians.20
665
5. The candidate to the sq.lesian l,ife and the sal,esian
in lormation achieae their personal d,euel,opment taking into
accownt the concrete sitwation ol the present world, uith its
need,s, s'ince tkey liue and act in it as men, as ckristians and,
as salesians.
The sum total of the needs and aspirations of our age
strongly influences every true formation.2l
Don Bosco had to a very high degree a sense of
awareness of the needs of the times: in view of this he
mapped out the salesian Society and knew how to adapt
it to the social and spiritual aspirations of his times.
His fi.rst collaborators were formed in this spirit. Today
it is a matter of urgencv to revitalize this characteristic,
especially in the sphere of formation.
Like Don Bosco, the salesian must be able to read
the signs of the times. Modern society, with its rapid
and profound changes, demands a new type of marr,zz
capable of overcoming the uneasiness caused by changes,
and of continuing to look for solutions rather than take
refuge in ready-made answers; disposed to learn and to
face up to new situations, to enter into dialogue with
an open mind, to accept the fact of inter-dependence and
to practise solidarity; capable too of distinguishing what
is permanent from what is changeable, without going to
17 Cf PC 6; ET 4j.
18 Cf UR 15.
H cf LG 54.
,'or
,,
Cf
cf
Cf
LG 62-67;
GS 4-10.
RF 2.
PeP,
ist
181
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extremes; and capable finally of living as a religious in
a secularized rvorld.
The structures of formation, adapted to the needs
of the times, of places and of the people involved, will
need to be pluralistic, decentralized, flexible and functior-ral.
In fact a young man ought to be formed in corrtact
with the real environment in which he lives: his family,
young men of his own age-group, and true salesian life
rvith its apostolic activities. All this is to be carried out
with a view to the service he will have to give, in harmony
with his personality and his individual characteristics.
In an atmosphere of open, constant and sincele
dialogue,23 he will feel co-responsible for his own form-
ation and, in proportion to his orvn maturity, for the
running of the house.
666
6. The nouice or salesian in lormation imbibes in an,
awthentic, personal and. uital uay the spirit, style ol lile
and, aork proper to the permanent charism ol Don Bosco.
All this will require a living synthesis and a certain
style of spiritual life, of balance and of human relationships.
These are all elements that represent so many traits of
the personality of the salesian, and which ought to be
seen as the objectives of his speciflc formation-
667
a) The salesian style of spiritual life should be:
Saviour-; centred on God the Father and Christ thc
kindnes-s
expressed in a style of charity,
of St. Francis of Sales;
inspired
by
the
to
disco-versGusotdaionuerdSbayvioaurcoinnchrisettoeryfaaitnhd
that enables one
in human events;
and
of
-joyn, oeuvreisnhiendthbey
a hope that is a fount of optimism
midst of difficutties and sufferings;
'13 Cf RF 24; Intr. 2.
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istic
an- d
enlightened
marian;
by
a
piety
that
is
simple,
euchar-
tempera-ncee;ngaged in a really ascetic life of work and
in
whi-ch
and finally
evangelical
lived in
chastity
a form of consecrated life
is manifested in an educ-
ational style of loving kindness, obedience is practised
in a family spirit, and poverty is lived as temperance,
untiring work and service to poor youth.
668
b) The style of hwman balance of the sons of Don
Bosco is marked by a willingness to adapt to the circum-
stances of an intensive and variegated work programlrle,
by simplicity and austerity of life, by an ability to fit
in with plans easily and gracefully, by joy and optimism,
and by a desire of continual self-improvement.
669
c) The style ol hwman rel,ations, full of joviality,
sincerity, loyality and enthusiasm, makes the salesian
capable of communicating with peoplc, especially the
young, with an understanding attitude, ready for dialogue
and service; capable too of genuine friendship, with spon-
taneity and delicacy.
This style of brotherly relations, characterized by
lamily spirit, ought to make the salesian community one
of fraternal love, based on the identity of ideal and mis-
sion, which harmonizes obedience with freedom, over-
comes natural likings and antipathies, which recognizes
and promotes the richness and the worth of each of its
members, which makes friendship possible and which has
in its life of prayer and its listening to the word of God,
especially in the celebration of the eucharist, its found-
ation 2a and at the same time its most beautiful ex-
pression.2s
,4 Cf PO 6.
15 Cf PeP 70-71
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670
7. The noaice or tke conlrire in, lormation acqwires
this salesian spirit by being initiated into trwe salesian lile
and by exercising himsell in the apostol,ate proper to owr
mission.
According to Don Bosco, a salesian, even during his
novitiate, ought not be formed in isolation from real
salesian life. For him the exercise of those works that
will be carried out for the whole of his life plays a decisive
role in formation, for his is a Congregation of educators,
not of contemplatives or penitents.26 He wanted the
young to be formed by living a real salesian life of apos-
tolic work proper to our Congregation.
Hence the salesian spirit that the confrdre in form-
ation must acquire is assimilated in the exercise of our
mission, which is to evangelize youth, especially the poor
and abandoned 27 and to form them according to the
spirit of the preventive system. This spirit is lived and
almost incarnated in the life of the salesian community.
671
8. Fol,lowing this lormatiue process uhich lasts the
uhole ol one's life, the salesian u'ill, succeed. in liaing in
the salesian spirit, the mystery ol kurnan salaation, kar-
monizing, as Don Bosco d,id, tuo lwndamental aspects ol
one sole reality:
a) the realization of one's own personal aspirations,
and of one's baptismal and religious consecration;28
b) perfect solidarity with the human community,
especially of the young, with their problems and aspira-
tions, ever in evolution, and in keeping with the salesian
mission amongst all men, christian, non-christian, and
non-believers, in a total service of love and witness.2e
26 Cf SrBr,re, Don Bosco nella stov'ia della religiosi,td cattolica,
vol II pp 386-392.
t? Cf Const A 1.
,8 Cf LG 46.
2' cf LG 40-44-46.
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672
9. In the lormatiae process in a community united by
charity and under the leadership ol the superior, tkose confuA-
res responsibl,e lor lormation haue a specifi,c and necessary
ntission to accomplisk.so
The success or failure of the lenewal of formation
depends very much on the capacity of those immediately
in charge of formation. Hence confrdres chosen to hold
a formative role in the Congregation ought to be keenly
aware of the extent to which the formation of the students
depcnds on thcir way of thinking and acting.31 Further-
more, those responsible for formation should always mani-
fest both by the example of their lives and by word of
mouth an attitude of unreserved fidelity to revelation,
to the magisterium of the Church and to the directives
of the Congregation, in whose name they form young
salesians.32
As far as possible the group of formation personnel
should include people with diflerent and complementary
personalities, since it is only in this way that various
models of behaviour can be offered to the young men
in formation.
The formative community should constantly take its
inspiration from the first apostolic communities and from
the homely community of Valdocco, animated by the
quickening presence of Don Bosco and by the spirit of
kindness of St. Francis of Sales.
Those with a formative role and the young men in
formation should live in close communion of life, action
and spirit under the leadership of the superior.
But formation must be the result of the harmonious
action of all the confrdres, both of the local and of the
provincial community. Everyone should feel that he
30 cf oT 5.
3t Cf OT 5; PC 18
3, cf RF 97.
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belongs to the formative community in such a way as
to communicate by the example of his own life the
authentic values of the salesian vocation,3s and to foster
amongst the students joy in their own vocation.3a
33 cf oT 2.
31 cf oT 5.
475

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CHAPTER TWO
DETIBERATIONS OF THE GHAPTER
A. GENERAL ASPECT OF FORMATION
1. Some aspects of human formation
673
The human maturity of those inTcourse of formation
should be developed in a way that will produce an inter-
ior balance indispensable for the religious and sales-
ian life.
Some indications on this point are given here below:
a) Use of psychological and pedagogical sciences'
A regular and systematic use should be made of
psychological and pedagogical aids (psychological charts,
medical cards, etc.) in the context of a theological ap-
proach. It should not be restricted merely to diffrcult cases.
This will help the young brothers to get to know
themselves better and will favour their development. It
will also be a great boon to those in charge of formation,
helping them to adapt their approach to individual cases.
But in all this we must not lorget owr bownd,en duty
to resfect personal freedom, the dignity of the individual
and professional secrets.
b) Gontacts with the family'
674
During the time of formation, as in the whole of
salesian life, relations with one's family must be main-
tained. Just how this is to be done and the frequency
ICfRC ll; RF 39; Enc. Sacerdot. coel'ib. 63: OT 11
3CfRF 12.
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of visits will depend a great deal on the needs of filial
love, the efficacy of such contacts and the exigencies of
religious life. The families should be helped to collaborate
in the maturing of their sons' vocations, whilst respecting
their freedom.
c) Maturing in human relations
675
They should develop a sense of mission and a con-
stant disposition to be of service, which will euablc them
to trcat everyone, young and old, with undcrstanding,
discretion, and kindness.3
To facilitate an effective sexual maturity everything
of an artificial and negative nature should be avoided,
particularly in contacts with women. It is true that
simple contact with the feminine rvorld is not in itself
a solution to the emotional problems; indeed, if badly
conducted it can be damaging. But young salesians should
educate themselves with the help of those in charge to
adopt a natural attitude, unequivocal and clear, in order
to understand just what consecrated celibacy means.
d) Extra-curricular activities
676
Following the example of Don Bosco, due importance
should be given to physical and cultural activities which,
though not strictly belonging to the academic curriculum,
can be of immense help in formation, e.g. gymnastics,
sport, music, declamation, theatricals, etc. Special at-
tention should be paid to artistic formation, as this is
of great importance in pastoral youth work and litur-
gical action.
2. Growth in faith: integration of faith and life
677
To get to grips with the ever-changing perspectives
in man's relationships with the rvorld and with God, an
3 Cf OT 11a; RF' 51
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adequate training in faith is needed. Therefore this per-
iod of formation should:
that
ha-ve
present earthly and human realities as values
in themselves their owrr consistency and good-
ness which ought to be recognized as such;a it is in the
world that God works out our salvation;s
of a cl-earpduirsitfiyncthtieonfabitehtwoefetnhotsheeinesfsoermntaiatlioanndbywmheaatniss
only accessory;
right
a-ssetsesamchenttheomf
how to find in thc word of God the
the world and its values, and to
hear in created nature the voice of God;6
-wornldoat-nadlwpinaoyimnsetrnoe,cutootgtneoinzaethbdloes-tehebomefintthogesfohrroimsweentdoCtahhsereiscptureliansreizntehcdee
society that God is the only absolute good.
In this way there will be produced a vital synthesis
between human effort and religious values.?
3. Spiritual guidance
678
Recognizing the importance of spiritual direction dur-
ing formation and to facilitate its practice and make it
ever more efficacious and profitable, the Special General
Chapter reminds all that:
a) it is essential to distinguish between the two
sections of spiritual guidance: cont?tuotnq.l and personal
(i.e. of the conscience);8
b) in a community with the task of formation the
superior is in charge of the spiritual direction of all the
ncf GS 36-41.
,cf 5C{ GS 62.
GS 62; RF 58
7Cf GS 43.
8C{ oT 8.
478

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members of the community. He does this through con-
ferences, 'good nights,' public and private exhortations,
talks, and the exercise of paternal authority.e
Over and above this the superior is also the 'magister
spiritus' of the young confrdres in formation; in other
words his is the ultimatc responsibility for the work of
formation in the community and in the individual
members,lo
c) on the personal level, the salesians in formation
have the right to choose their own director of conscience.
In accordance rvith the mind of the Church 11 and follow-
ing salesian tradition and the example of Don Bosco,
the superior of the community is also the spiritual director
proposed to, but not imposed on, each confrdre.lz It is
obvious that a serious preparation is indispensable for
such an important mission; nevertheless the young con-
frdres in formation may also make use of confessors and
other capable confrdres.
When fraternal gatherings are used in a common
effort to discover God's will they favour charity, make
the apostolate more fruitful and bring a spiritual joy to
the common life. But psychology, experience with souls,
and the constant practice of the Church all teach that
though they can help they cannot take the place of spiri-
tual guidance.
4. Personal experience
679
To keep this formation in touch with
important for personal development and
raeafulittyur-e
most
apos-
, Cl ASC 244, p 99.
10 Cf ASC 244, p 96.
11
t,
Cf
Cf
OT 8.
ASC p
95.
479

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taoslpaetects-
the General Chapter wishes to emphasize
which are essential for sound formation:l3
some
a) fhe house of formation and its environs
For the young confrdre's contact with society to be
natural, the house of formation itself, at whatever level,
should take an active part as a sal,esian comrnttnity in
the life of the local church and neighbourhood wherever
it is carrying out its cultural and apostolic mission. It
would not be sufficient for the integral formation of the
young confrdres if individually or in groups thev merely
made contact with the neighbourhood.la
b) Social-cultural environment of formation and specialization
The basic formation oI all, whether priests, possible
future deacons, or lay religious, should take place, unless
special reasons require some exception, in the social-
cultural environment where their future work lies. Special-
ization can take place abroad, but preferably only after
some years experience in the apostolate.
c) Use of mass media "
The use of the means of social comnrunication is
an indispensable channel for a wider contact with human
reality. The intellectual, spiritual and technical prepara-
tion of young confrdres in the right use of these means
should be intensified. This will help them to face the
complex problems of the modern world which demand
an answer from the Church.
d) The young confrire and apostolic work for youth
A gradual and well prepared participation in youth-
work, preferably under our own auspices, is to be favoured.
Cf RF Intro. 2
t4 Cf RF 12.
Cf IM 16.
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This is necessary to give the young confr6res an idea o{
the problems of youth today and of their evangelization.
But its main purpose is to strengthen their own salesian
spirituality and give a pastoral slant to their studies.
All this should be done under the responsibility of tkose
in charge ol formation.
e) Manual work
Those in formation should also prepare themselves
for a life of sacrifi.ce by generously ofiering their help in
the ordinary manual work of the community. This en-
ables them not only to bear witness to poverty, but to
understand the real diffrculties of life in the world. Work
outside our own environment however ntust haue the
authorization, ol tke proaincial uith the consent of kis cowncil-
5. Community Life
To ensure that the community of a house of form-
ation is a really formative one, the following points should
be observed:
680 a) A community of fraternal love
The real values of obedience and liberty can be-
come integrated in the life of the community only through
authentic and brotherly exchanges backed by a common
identity of ideals and mission.lG
Nowadays many seem to think that a community
should be built on 'homogeneity.' By this they mean
a special affinity of character, ideas, mentality, etc., and
a friendly spontaneity. There is no doubt about the
human value of all this, but the needs of charity on which
a religious community should be built 17 demand that
16 cf. 81" 25-27
r? cf PC 15.
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real homogeneity should be sought not on natural affin-
ities but on the desire to liae togetker in Christ. The young
confrdre therefore should be helped along these lines to
experience a real community of love by accepting un-
conditionally the brothers God has given him, uith q.ll
their good. and, bad, points, and by overcoming his likes
and dislikes. Real and deep friendships can and should
develop in a community of brothers, but they cannot be
considered a binding requisite for the formation of the
community.
681 b) A celebrating comrnunity (i.e. eucharistic celebration) 's
The formative community must be a praying com-
munity, and the Mass should be at one and the same
time its heart and the best expression of its unity. The
holy Mass therefore should be the centre and pivot of
the whole period of formation. But the daily Mass must
not be reduced to a mere external obligation; it must
be the result of a convinced and intended participation
which is a sign and index of that spiritual maturity so
necessary for the religious life.
This kind of participation is the result of education
in a living faith (catechesis).
682 c) Community dialogue
Formative activities should be carried out in the
atmosphere of an open, constant and sincere community
dialogue. The very nature of the formative process re-
quires this, because it involves a vital communication
and assimilation of values.le Only in this way can the
hopes and aspirations of those in formation be made to
confront the realities of the practical salesian life in an
18 Cf ET 48.
1' Cf RF Intro. 2; RF 24.
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atmosphere of fraternal collaboration and co-responsibility.
One result of this will be a natural limitation of personal
values for one who lives in commr:nity.
683 d) Ihe formative community
It is important to understand that no single formula
will automatically solve the problem of building up the
lormatiue community. The young confrdres must begin to
understand, and this above all from the good example
of those in charge of them, that the so-called 'communion
of spirit' is arrived at only by the patient work of self-
renunciation and an openness to others. This is probably
the most important experience they must undergo and
they should be directed towards it by means of opportune
community reflections.20
e) fhose in charge of formation
With the intention of seconding the desire of the
Church 21 and keeping in mind the request of the Congre-
gation, the General Chapter lays down the following:
684
a) In order to be genuine and eff.cacious guides of
the young confrdres, those in charge of formation should
have had a period of practical and apostolic experience,
they should be individuals who are at the same time
both very understanding from a human point of view
and endowed with a supernatural spirit; they should bc
epoarstailyncaeptporodaacyh.aTblhee-y
this is something of great im-
should also try to cultivate, after
the example of Don Bosco, a balanced character, self
control, an open mind, sinceritlr, optimism and serenity.
685
b) The confrdres destined for this type of work must
,0 cf RF 46.
,r Cf pC 18; OT 5
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have a well-ordered preparation in the various sectors of
salesian life:22
religious life and of church-world relations; the essentials
of apostolic spirituality and contact with modern culture;
a fed,agogical and psychological leael: a
fundamental knowledge of pedagogy, an understanding
of modern youth, and education in human relations;23
the
spi-rituoanlittyheosf aDleosnianBolescuoe,l:tahne
intimate knowledge of
preventive system and
the life of the Congregation;
tke Pastoral level: a practical working exper-
ience of our apostolate.2a
686
c) The personnel in charge of formation must always
be abreast of the times. Centres of salesian spirituality
should be founded which among other things will help
future members of formative communities to prepare
themselves from a salesian point of view for their work.2s
7. Doctrinal and technical formation
687 a) Seriousness of intellectual work
Professors and students should approach their intel-
lectual and professional studies with that degree of ser-
iousness that will enable them to announce the gospel
message to the men of our time, bearing in mind the
ever-increasing demands of modern culture.26 They should
remember that this 'doctrinal formation must not consist
simply in an exchange of ideas but must tend rather to
a real interior formation of soul.' 27
22 Cf RF 34.
23 Cf RF 35.
,, Cf RF 37.
25 Cf RF 3 1-36.
26 cf RF 59.
2' cf OT 17.
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688 b) lntellectual formation of brothers
In the formation of brothers, theology should per-
meate all their culture. Indeed it is in the iight of theology
that formation and instruction acquire their deep sign-
ifi.cance. The level of theology however will be propor-
tionate to the grade of culture attained in the other
branches of study and qualiflcations.
Brothers should likewise be acquainted with philos-
ophy, psychology, pedagogy, catechetics and other sciences,
all of which are indispensable in the formation of an
educator, and especially a religious educator. But it
must always be kept in mind that formation must be
apostolic and pastoral, and involve practical application
of the principles studied theoretically.
689 c) Link between profane and religious culture
A11 the doctrinal and technical formation should be
such as to bring about a proper synthesis between ser-
ious, profane culture (seeking and respecting human
values), and a solid religious formation, even from a
cultural view-point. Cultural and technical formation
should not be an end in itself but should rather lead
the confrdres in formation to the attainraent of a com-
plete human and christian development.
690 d) Salesian teachers in non-salesian institutes
Whenever possible salesians should obtain places on
the teaching staff of those institutes, seminaries and
study centres frequented by our confrdres.28
e) Salesian study-centres
These should have an adequate and well qualified
salesian staff, supplemented by non-salesian professors
whenever necessary or opportune.2e
,8 Cf RF 2I
,, Cf RC 38
485
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f) Permanent formation and refresher coutses
In the overall arrangement of studies in each province,
provision should be made {or initiatives which will guar-
antee a permanent type of formation, and a cultural and.
professional adaptability to the needs of the times.
B. STAGES OF FORMATION
691 1. Gontinuity of the formative process
The difierent phases of formation should be linked
one with the other. To ensure this there should be a
co-ordination of all the stages of formation on a provincial
basis and a periodic exchange of ideas and views between
those working in this sector.
692 2. Vocational work
a) Projects in spiritual formation and service
These, as well as social, missionary and apostolic
action amongst the young should be developed; thev
help to predispose their hearts to the divine call. They
should be frequently reminded of the pressing needs of
the Church and of the world, and especially of the young
people of the 30 present day. Respect for their personal
freedom should not prevent us from helping them.
b) Adult vocations
Following the example of Don Bosco every effort
should be made to help those candidates for the priesthood
or the religious life who find it difficult to follow their
vocation because of their age.31
30 cf oT 2.
3r Cf Const. A 6.
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c) Collaboration in work for vocations 32
We should enlist the collaboration of the Daughters
of Mary HeIp of Christians, the co-operators, Volunteers
of Don Bosco, past pupils and other associations, and
the families with whom we are in contact, in promot-
ing vocations.
d) Presenting our salesian vocation in its two forms
Whilst promoting vocations in general, Iet us not
forget our own salesian vocation of both the priest and
the brother (tay retigious). Brothers as well as priests
should take part in the work for vocations.
e) Candidates for the salesian lay-religious life
The various provinces should as far as possible en-
courage vocations to the brotherhood amongst the pupils
of our technical schools. Likely boys should be looked
after by a iay religious himself and should carry out an
apostolate amongst the other pupils.
f) Examination of the success of vocation work
The number of vocations is a gauge of our apostolate
amongst the young. Lack of vocations (priestly, religious,
or as lay leaders) is a sure sign that we have failed to
help the young to find their true christian involvement
during the stages of their education. A serious examination
at provincial and local level of the whole question of
vocations would help the province, every community, and
the individual confrdres to realize their individual res-
ponsibility in this regard and encourage them to set an
exarnple that will help the young to respond to a possible
call of the Lord with great generosity.
3,CfRF8
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3. Preparation for the novitiate
693
Should a candidate ask for a trial period before the
novitiate, this should readily be granted. Such a period
might even be advised by those in charge of formation
in certain cases, and possibly even outside the houses
of the Congregation. In deciding what method to fol-
low, the assistance and guidance of the candidates should
be clearly provided for.33
4. The novitiate
694 a) Relations between novices and professed
These should be as natural as possible because form-
ation, especially that of the novitiate, must be the result
of the common effort of all the community.sa The latter
must be a real 'formative community' and as such be able
to show by its way of life the authentic values of the
salesian charism.35
b) Clothing ceremony
The clothing ceremony, or bestowal of some dis-
tinctive badge, should be left to the d.ecision of each
province.
5. Admission to first profession
695 a) Standards required
The following criteria should be followed for admission
to the vows. The novices should have:
a) sufficient health, and a qualifi.cation that will
make them useful for salesian work, or (in the case of
younger candidates) the ability to acquire one;
33 Cf RC 4-12
31 Cf RC 28.
35 Cf RC 5.
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D) adequate d.evelopment in the art of human rela-
tionships. This wilt help them to esteem the personal
dignity of their confrdres, especially from the point of
view of spiritual values;
c) a complete and balanced emotional life that will
enable them to relate to other human beings in a serene
and selfless fashion, and to use with inward freedom the
heatthy human values of one's life context, as sources
of creative joy;
d) such a deep christian experience as to enable
them to recognize the Father and Christ as the only
reason for their existence, and to consider all other values
as merely subordinate to the work of salvation;
e) a knowledge of the salesian spirit suffrcient to
inspire them to accept with enthusiasm the mission proper
to our Society and to place all their energies at its disposal.
b) Besponsible entry into the congregation
Entrance into the salesian religious life signifi.es for
the candidate an undertaking so serious that it must be
the result of a personal d.ecision taken in collaboration
with the community rather than a simple unilateral
decision ot'ad'ruission.' It is true that only the superiors
can admit a candidate to vows and orders in the name
of the Church and the Congregation,s6 but this action of
the superiors, the expression of their judgement or opin-
ion is fund"amentally a help offered to those in formation
to enable them to take a responsible decision before God,
the Church and their own conscience.
s6 cf oT 2.
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6. Period of temporary vows
696 a) Tirocinium
So that the vital experience of the tirocinium may
be truly formative, it should be done if possible in groups.
The beginner should find in the community, and espec-
ially in the superior, an attitude of understanding, encour-
agement and support which will favour his development.
697 b) Renewal of vows
In considering the question of the renewal of tem-
porary vows the superiors should make a clear distinction
between the process of maturing in the individual, and.
his unsuitability for the salesian life. Therefore those who
do not give hope of ever being admitted to perpetual
profession, should not be allowed to renew their tem-
porary vows.37
698 c) Be-admission without a second novitiate
Whenever a member who left the Congregation legit-
imately, either at the end of his temporary profession
or with a dispensation from his vows, asks to be re-
admitted, the Rector Major with the consent of his Council
can admit him in conformity with the prescriptions of
Renovationis Causam no. 38, ll, without the need of
repeating his novitiate.
A temporary departure before the perpetual vows
should not be considered a normal phase of formation
but an exception to be made only in those cases where
a personal review of his position on the part of the relig-
ious requires it.
37 cf RC 6.
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d) Preparation for final profession
The perpetual profession, as the culmination of relig-
ious commitment, should be preceded by a convenient
period of preparation.38
7. On-going formation - training plan
699
Each province or group of provinces should draw up
a training plan, so as to ensure the availability of con-
frdres who are speciaiists in the different kinds of sales-
ian activity.
38 cf RC g.
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CHAPTER THREE
TEMPORARY ARRANGEMENTS
700
l. The Special General Chapter has limited itself to
pointing out the principles which shall govern salesian
formation; it desires the existing norms to remain in
force until the various provinces, in accordance with
art. 106 of the Constitutions, have decided on their own
plan. In the meantime provincials and their councils
shall make only those changes which they feel to be
necessary and urgent in the light of what has been said in
this document (i.e., the document on formation).
701
2. During the next six years:
a) provision must be made as a matter of urgency
for the necessary up-dating of the confrdres. This will
be done through the official magisterium of the Congre-
gation, and by the organization of intensive courses of
study and reflection, and of other activities, especially at
provincial level;
6) all the brothers should be given the possibility
of frequenting regular courses of theology and cate-
chetics which will make them more competent in the
teaching of religion.
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CHAPTER FOUR
SALESIAN PONTIFICAL ATHENAEUM
(Pontificio Ateneo Salesiano - P.A.S.)
Practical Directives of the Special General Ghapter
702
The Special General Chapter ratifies the general trend
of the Statutes of the P.A.S. in respect of its structure
as a Salesian Pontifical University with the following
principal characteristics:
A. as a uniaersity:
a) primary concern for teaching and scientific
research;
b) academic autonomy within the limits laid down
by the statutes, and the economic support necessary to
ensure its ef&ciency;
c) a teaching staff adequate in numbers and qual-
ifications;
d) open also to external students, ecclesiastic
and lay.
B. as pontifi,cal:
a) at the service of the Church for spreading
christian ideas and promoting knowledge in the specifi.c
field of the salesian mission;
b) faithful to the catholic magisterium and tradition.
C. as salesian:
a) directed and sustained by the salesian Congre-
gation, in the light of the ecclesial context of Vatican II;
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b) at the service of the Congregation for promot-
ing its mission and unity at the level of scientific research
and teaching;
c) primarily for the formation of salesian personnel;
d) a centre of stimulation, teaching and research
in the following fields:
tem
of
D-on
education,
Bosco;
with
special
emphasis
on
the
sys-
and
by
D--onpsaBalsoetssociaroan.ll
work for the young, and catechetics;
spirituality, especially as realized in
703
2. The Special General Chapter declares that the
speciflc object of the P.A.S. must be tke stud,y on salesian
lines ol youth and, its problems, chiefly from the follow-
ing aspects: theological and pastoral, catechetical, educa-
tional, psycho-social, etc.
For this reason every faculty and institute of the
P.A.S. in its approach, methods and content of its courses,
shall aim clearly at this object.z
3. The chief scope of the P.A.S. is to give to its
salesian undergraduates a university formation, conferring
degrees and other qualifications, with a view to the dif-
ferent forms of apostolic work proper to our Society and
the preparation of teachers for studentates of philosophy
and theology.s
4. The accurate selection of confrdres, both professors
and students, for the P.A.S. is of the greatest importance,
both as regards stability in vocation, personal equilibrium
1 GE; Normae quaedam; Regulations 321,323; Statuta Gene-
ralia:,aSrGt C2,dlo; c2u,m2e;n3t ;13-4,;
5; 6,
Sta.
7; 21, 22; 27,
gen.: art 2, 2.
1.
3 Regulations, att 322; Sta. gen.: 2, 1-2; 27, l.
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and religious spirit, as well as their qualifications and
intellectual aptitude and ability.a
701
5. The Superior Council, on which the P.A.S. must
directly depend through the Councillor for Formation or
a delegate, will study a system of exchange of professors
between the different salesian centres of higher studies
throughout the world, so as to promote:
a) a stable provision for the basic staff of guaranteed
international character;
D) reasonable assistance by those provinces in a
positiou to provide teachers for limited periods, without
prejudice to their owrl needs.s
6. Since the P.A.S. is at the service of the whole
Congregation, the proainces 6tre obl,iged to prouide botk
teachers and, stud,ents at the request of the Superior Council.6
7. Bearing in mind the primary objective of the
P.A.S. and its fundamental importance for the renewal
of the Congregation, every province shall undertake to send,
stwdents to tke P.A.S. periodical,ly, subsequently keeping
in close touch with those in charge there.?
Temporary directives
705
8. The Special General Chapter has d,ecided, tkat the
Superior Cowncil should, nominate a post-capitul,ar coru,-
mission in immediate dependence on tke said Council,, akick
aill put into effect whateuer is necessary lor the reneual
ol the P.A.S; in particwlar its task will be:
a Regulations, art 326.
5 Stat. gen., art 3, 4; 5; 20, 4; 30.
6 Regulations, 328.
? Regulations, 325.
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a) to draw up a plan within a prescribed time for
effecting the necessary reforms of the P.A.S., to ensure
that it shall fulfi.l its role as a university and attain its
objects of a salesian and formative nature laid down by
the Special General Chapter;
b) to revise the statutes so as to bring them fully
into line with the directives of the General Chapter and
the mission of the Congregation;
c) to consider which faculties and institutes of the
P.A.S. should be strengthened, created or suppressed, and
to take the necessary steps to bring about the re-
adjustment;
d) to make suitable plans to guarantee the develop-
ment of the "centre of studies on Don Bosco," and to
consider the advisability of setting up a "Higher Institute
of Salesian Spirituality;"
e) to consider the question of a revision and unifica-
tion of the administration of the P.A.S., and to seek the
means most suitable for guaranteeing a deflnite economic
autonomy suffrcient to sustain its specifi.c objects;
l) to draw up norms which will ensure, in accord-
ance with the statutes and in the light of the post-capitular
situation, a proper re-shaping of the teaching and student
body. Amongst other things these norms shall indicate:
1. the respective competence of the religious and
academic authorities, especially in the matter of the selec-
tion and preparation of professors;
2. tlne previous academic course obligatory for
all proposed members of the teaching staff;
3. the 'academic quota' of study, work, publica-
tions, etc., required of all professors;
4. the procedure to be followed, and the com-
petence and responsibility of academic and religious auth-
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orities in the matter of promotion, transfer and dismissal
of professors;
g) to consider, how the houses of residence and
formation can be separated from the academic centre,
so as to ensure the realization of the fundamental objec-
tives of both;
h) to consider, in consequence, the desirability or
otherwise of the P.A.S. continuing to exist as an inde-
pendent province;
i) to determine the procedure and the fixed periods
within which the practical directives decided on by the
Special General Chapter in the light of the diagnosis
prepared by the Capitular Commission for the P.A.S.
shall be carried out, so as to make it possible to present
to the next General Chapter an exhaustive evaluation of
the work of the next six years.
497