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UISG PROGRAMME FOR THE FORMATION OF FORMATORS
January 13th – July 4th, 2025
I am Sr. Rebika SJA feel to be a privileged one to participate the Formation of Formators course in Rome organized by UISG (International Union of Superiors Generals) representing on the behalf of our congregation of St. Joseph of Annecy, Bhubaneswar Province. I accept this as a fortunate to be in Rome in the year of Jubilee 2025 to learn how to journey with those in our formation communities. We were 46 participants from 28 countries 42 congregations and from 5 continents. 1. Latin America, 2. Europe, 3. Asia, 4. Africa, 5. Ocean
On 16th Jan we had an Inaugural mass presided by Fr. Jose K. SDB, and two concelebrants. In his homily, Fr. Jose encouraged us to be “wounded healers” journeying together as pilgrims of hope. We cannot travel alone, and it is natural to journey together, bringing hope to those we form. We together keeping this meaningful message in our uppermost mind and trusting God that He will accompany us as we journey together to discover ourselves as wounded healers who need healing to heal others. Our joyful Inaugural celebration was enhanced by the presence and support of the UISG staff.
On 17th, 18th and 19th, we planned and organized to form a 6 integration groups for 6 months to carry out the responsibilities whatever is or (will be) assigned. Each group had its name and my group name was “Circle of love”. The other names of the groups were “Samaritan Women”, “Unity”, “Humility”, “The well”, and “Jesus’ Friends”. These 6 integration groups were appointed a leader for two weeks to lead and guide their respective groups. There were 6 provincial leaders for 6 months who oversees overall around as a whole group in every month. And apart from 6 groups, there were different groups like…. Documentary, Technical, Entertainment and Artist group. These groups were very responsible, initiative, active, enthusiasm and spirit of integrity. Interestingly these groups had their own supremacy and curiosity (choice) to share their talents through various skills and aptitudes.
1. Documentary group had their own accountable to prepare a report (newsletter), provide photos and videos every month.
2. Technical groups had a beautiful job to keep technical systems ready such as projector, mics or microphones etc.….
3. Entertainment groups had a wonderful skill ability to perform a dance or entertain every day even just break time and above all especially during the birthday celebrations at the end of the month.
4. Artist groups were excellent and delightful to fascinate through their lovely and charming greeting cards for the birthday one’s and professors. They utilized their most valuable talents for the happiness of others. And surprisingly, I belonged to the Artist group. Just imagine…. Every week the cards were made ready. My colleagues and I enjoyed making greeting cards a lot, almost 10 to 15 cards every month. And of course, this was not for our own sake but for the joy and beauty of the other person’s one who deserves to be.
It’s my most pleasure to share lively and energetic experiences that I ever and ever had during the stay over in Rome.
Integration Group Sharing
We were glad to share with our integration groups about books we read every month on consecrating religious life. Even though there was no time to read but we found our time in the bus when we travelled.
Charism Sharing: We were asked to share 20 minutes presentation on our own Charism lived in Diverse Contexts. Most Probably 10 sisters presented every month in a very creative way. It enriched and enlightened us as we heard and saw the wonders God continues to work in and through our Charism. Each sister shared the culture of the country, its current situation, challenges, opportunities and how the sisters live their charism in this context of today.
After each presentation we were interacting for 5 minutes with the presenter to ask questions, give affirmation & comments on what we heard. We were happy to learn how each congregation grows & have been faithful to their charism & respond to the needs of the people of God.
We had a simple but celebration for the Birthday celebrants at the end of every month.
Peer Mentoring was within the Integration group two by two. My peer Mentor was from Sri Lanka, and this peer mentoring was once in a month, sharing on about the classes, modules and how it is effective to each one of us and how can we implement in our formation. We could share knowledge, skills freely and best practices & learn from each other, foster collaborative relationship with one another in personal and professional growth. 
Integration Group
we the integration group used to come together to share, learn and grow through mutual support & collaboration. We often formed around a common goal, interest or theme to bring unique experiences, skills & viewpoints, enriching the group’s dynamics. And we facilitated skill development, career growth, fostered social connections, empathy & understanding among ourselves in our group. It was really a dynamic group atmosphere to provide a sense of belonging & led us to be creative & effective solution
Pilgrimage to Subiaco (St. Benedictine Monastery)
We went on a pilgrimage to the Monastery of St. Benedict called Subiaco near Rome. We had an opportunity to hike and explore the surrounding hills & valleys. As a young boy, St. Benedict spent three years in a cave in solitude & deep reflection, seeking spiritual growth before starting a community of Monks. This is the place where he wrote the Benedictine Rule of life.
Our visit to Subiaco furnished us a deep profound experience of the life & teachings of St. Benedict and the Monastic lifestyle that he began and endorsed in the Church for the world.
Retreat in Nemi
We began our retreat from April 4th – 12th directed by 9 retreat directors. It was a great joy to go to Centro Ad Gentes (retreat center) run by the SVDs in Nemi, 32.3 km from Rome. These 9 directors accompanied us during those days. Yes, there was a lot of time to spend with God & explore a spiritual growth personally.
I was led free to deepen my intimacy with Christ’ love before the Blessed Sacrament in silence and contemplation on God & nature. I was guided by Fr. David a Comboni priest who helped me and directed me for my spiritual nourishment.
My retreat in Nemi allowed me to explore deeply about the purpose of my being, reflecting on Ps: 139. It was a powerful invitation to search for and to remain rooted in God’s love in every moment & live in love in every action. It was most beautiful and meaningful instant, that energized me to persist in Christ’ love & being in his open arms. I experienced the constant presence & a unfathomable relationship with Christ during retreat.
Easter Vacation, journey to Annecy, France
God makes a way, where there seems to be no way. Yes, I believe that God has plan for me. Here I would like to share my joyous experiences that I had a privilege to travel to Annecy, France. I went to Annecy on 14th April 2025 to celebrate Good Friday and Easter Sunday. I am grateful to Sr. Breda and Team for permitting me to have a short visit to our Mother house. I thank Sr. Vianny who was ever ready to take up about my “To and FRO” expensive and came to receive me in the airport, Geneva.
I deeply express my gratitude for welcoming me and making me feel at ease. I was welcomed to stay in the Generalate house and felt comfortable. Each community invited me to have lunch or dinner and spent time with them. After one day I was invited to go to Thon community where Sr. Anila lives along with all senior sisters. I celebrated Good Friday with Thon community sisters. I had good days, enjoyed the beautiful surroundings and I returned to Annecy, Mother house and celebrated Easter vigil and Easter Sunday. A beautiful day and time I spent with sisters in Annecy. I had a lovely, short and sweet memories. Thank you, sisters, for your hospitality, love and care.
Pilgrimage to Siena and Assisi
A journey of faith and influence, walking through the city of Siena
We set out our journey to Siena on May 2nd along with Sr. Shalini and Fr. Emmanuel. It was 2 days of visit to the hometown of St. Catherine of Siena, Doctor of the Church. We could feel her presence as we walked at the Basilica of San Dominic, where a place deeply rooted to her spiritual journey and her relics exist today.
We walked through the streets of her birthplace & birth house; we could feel her unwavering faith. Her Home has transformed into the Sanctuary of St. Catherine, preserves the essence of her life. Walking through its corridors, almost hearing the echoes of her Holiness and her commitment to Christ, made our journey unforgetful.
We stepped into the medieval times along the winding streets of Assisi. Everything spoke loudly of Francis’ radical devotion. As we entered the upper Basilica of St. Francis, we could feel, every artist masterpiece caught our attention speaking of long- ago religious life history. The lower Basilica radiated an intimate serenity. We were so fortunate to celebrate the Holy Eucharist at the tomb of St. Francis. Walking around the tomb we felt Francis ‘legacy’ – his message of peace, simplicity and unwavering faith.
We visited a noblewoman called St. Clare, who followed Francis in his simple life as the “poor Ladies of Assisi”. We could visit her home and the Church of St. Clare. It was my great honor to step to the holy ground and places.
The most pleasure of my joy was to visit to the Blessed Carlo Acutis, a teenager renowned for his love for the Eucharist and his ability to use social media to evangelize the Gospel values. He is prominently known as model of holiness, patron of youth and patron of internet. Which was enlightened and touched by his spiritual life. His favorite
POPE FRANCIS’s death and Funeral 
As we know Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21st, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Maria. And I was most privileged to see and tribute his Body.On 26th April 2025, in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, the service of Pope Francis’s funeral began at 10.00 am local time. It was presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, following the mass, the Pope was laid to rest in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, fulfilling his wish to be buried outside the Vatican.Hundreds of thousands of mourners, including world leaders and dignitaries were present in St. Peter’s Square and along the procession route in Rome. It was my honor to attend Pope Francis’s funeral ceremony at the Vatican and pay my respect & reverence. It was a day I’ll never forget in my life and seeing more than 250,000 people were attended the ceremony of Pope in the vast Square. It remains in mind as a memorable one.
I HAVE WITNESSED THE TRANSITION FROM ONE POPE TO ANOTHER
I liked Pope Francis’ “chumminess” - greeting people young and old with an extraordinary smile. So, when he became sick and was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, I joined a few others to visit and pray. We were astonished to see many people praying outside, the get-well cards, the lit candles and journalists, who pitched their tents nearby! It was a miracle when he was discharged and when he made his last public appearance on Easter Sunday, and he imparted Easter blessings upon us! Shouts of joy covered St. Peter’s Square, rejoicing to see the Pope again. I was blessed to be there. His passing on Easter Monday was a shock! I was among the multitude that came to say goodbye to him. This made me realize that “wholeness attracts.” It was amazing to observe people of all walks of life present during his wake and Funeral Mass even though they had no seat. He was buried in the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major. The first Jesuit Pope, the first Latin American and the first to be born outside Europe. May he rest in peace! During the Papal conclave many of my classmates and I decided to witness this historical moment after our classes. Some went on both days while many were present on May 8th. We were fortunate to be at the right place at the right time and witness the white smoke! It was a grace-filled moment when the cardinal deacon announced the new Pontiff to the City and to the World. With joy and gratitude, we welcomed Pope Leo XIV and received his first blessing.
I felt graced to be among the 250,000 people present at his Inaugural Mass on May 18th at St. Peter’s Square. It was wonderful to hear the usual slogan, “Viva il Papa!” “Long Live the Pope!” Yes, the earlier sharing became reality. I will always cherish this grace-filled moment, blessed to have witnessed the transition from one Pope to another.
Culture Day
The cultural day was celebrated on 30th May filled with excitement and enthusiasm. Each one of us invited a member of the community or congregation and since we the St. Joseph’s are not there around, so I invited one of the community sisters where I was recommended. Sister Shalini, the coordinator, cordially welcomed every guest with the spirit of great joy. On this day the Eucharist was began at 10.00 with an Indian prayer dance. Followed by Cultural program.
We integrated beautifully with different nationalities showing our readiness to join the groups of Europe, Oceania, South America, Africa & Asia. All of us learned songs & dances from each other’s cultures, continents & performed them together.
Our programme was a varied as we are – colorful dressing & different musical languages.
Group building & Dynamic
This is the class began first module on Group Building and Dynamics, January 20 – 24. The resource people were Sr. Selina FSM and Fr. Yago MAFR at the beginning; through their expertise and outstanding experiences they facilitated the group to meet the object of this module. Group building & Dynamics helped each one of us to understand what group dynamics is and how it impacts the formation program. To explore how the origins of our lives shape the way we interact within groups, focusing on the concept of the Life Myth. To foster an environment that encourages the practical exploration of real-life experiences, ensuring psychological safety for all of us present. The different tools were elaborated
Expressive Art in Formation / integration
Expressive art means for personal growth, inner healing & prayer. It is to know own self better and see how God is working in our lives.
It is an art form, a sacred circle, a representation of my sacred self, who I am at the core of my being at a particular moment.
It is a symbol of healing and wholeness. These Mandalas help us to hold power for inner healing & transformation as we create them, reflect on & interpret them or use them as icon / focus for meditation.
Care for Formators
If you do not care about yourself, you cannot care for others. Psychologists say: It is much interesting topic. We think that self-care is selfish, no, selfcare is not selfish but – selfcare is personal care and love oneself.
Journal writings
Journal writing is an EXPERIENCE of a day or an event, we can deepen it, integrate it and see more clearly where God is leading. It is a record of one’s own life story, feelings. Insights, learnings, ideas, fears, resistances and questions It is a safe place to express our truth, explore our emotions and feelings. • It is where God Suprises us and keep record of God’s grace in our lives. It can be an art drawing, dialogue with someone, communication with strangers, writing poetry or anything can be. This journal writings helped me to explore my emotions and feelings to express myself.
Spiritual Direction
Spiritual direction is not about giving advice or solving problems. it’s about deeply listening and helping to find out God ‘s presence.
• Journey together
• Confidentiality
• Listening to the voice of God
• Active listening
• Don’t be quick to Judge
Dear sisters, I have no words enough to express my gratitude to Superior General Sr Brida & her team and My Provincial Sr. Leena & her team for sending me to Rome to participate in the FORMATION of preparation for the FORMATORS PROGRAMME.
Exploring Rome’s timeless attractions, the seamlessly blends history, culture offering countless experiences for the wonders and adventures. Here is a glimpse of 6 months surprises and astonishments.
I could visit the colosseum Roman Forum, Pantheon to uncover the ancient history and architecture.
Marvelled at the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel St. Peter’s Basilica, St. Paul Basilica, Maria Maggiore Basilica, Three Fontane, the place of St. Paul was beheaded, and St. John Latheron Basilica and many other Basilica’s for art and spirituality.
Navigate Rome’s public transportation system including buses and metro lines for efficient travel.
Tips for a memorable experience – book tickets in advance to avoid crowds long wait times, ran and catch the bus for to & fro, good time for pizza, pasta and gelato (Ice-cream). I remain with its eternal charm and countless blessings. I am ever debt to everyone who supported and prayed for me. Thank you one and all.
Sr. Rebika, Bhubaneswar Province