(ANS – Rome) – Between 11 and 13 November at the Generalate in Rome there was the first “Seminar  on spiritual direction from a Salesian perspective,” organised by the Youth Ministry Department. Over the next two years there will be two more Seminars on other aspects of Youth Ministry.

27 people took part, all highly qualified in the areas of spiritual direction, spiritual accompaniment, the formation of spiritual directors and vocation ministry. Many countries were represented: Argentina, Brazil, France, India, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Spain and the Unites States.

In the Seminar those taking part reflected on spiritual direction in Saint Francis of Sales, with an historical, pedagogical and spiritual approach. With three talks issues relating to theological, spiritual and pastoral questions were discussed which can be of assistance in the service of Salesian spiritual and vocational accompaniment. At the end of the meeting the group has come to some significant pedagogical and spiritual conclusions regarding Salesian spiritual direction, with particular attention to the accompaniment of the young.

The international Seminar followed the usual methodology with analysis and reflection after the three talks, with dialogue and discussions on the contributions and work in groups. The Seminar was also an encouragement for those taking part to examine pastoral guidelines and practical proposals for the drawing up of new projects for Salesian spiritual accompaniment.

The talks and the conclusions of the Seminar, together with those to be held in 2012 and 2013, will be published in 2014 for the benefit of many other Salesians, vocation promoters, catechists and educators to the faith in the area of Salesian spiritual accompaniment.

Published 14/11/2011