(ANS - Rome) - A course began yesterday, Sunday 15 November at the Salesianum in Rome, entitled "Study Days on the InitialProclamation of Christ in the City". The aim of the course is to promote discussion and in-depth reflection on the importance of the First Proclamation in an urban context.

The initialproclamation was the theme of the Joint Study Days of the Salesians and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians held in every continent during the past six years (2008-2014). Various ways of action in the Salesian mission were noted and new approaches to First Proclamation were proposed for the situation in Europe (Prague, 2010); South Asia (Kolkata, 2011); East Asia (Sampran, 2011); Oceania (Port Moresby, 2011); among Muslims and for the Middle East region (Rome, 2012); in Africa and Madagascar (Addis Ababa, 2012); and, finally, America and the Caribbean (Los Teques, 2013).

Now, the study days at the Salesianum conclude this cycle of reflection. They will be conducted in three phases: analysis of the situation; study and reflection; formulation of conclusions.

Each day will begin with a Bible reflection led by Sister Maria Ko, FMA so that the discussion "may really centre on the personal encounter with Christ who gives himself to us in his Word" (Benedict XVI, Verbum Domini, n. 73). Speakers are chosen specifically from outside the Salesian Family, in order to hear a 'different voice' on the subject and provoke new insights and perspectives.

Three panel discussion on the topic have also been planned. The proceedings of the Study Days will be published in different languages, on cards that will allow local communities to use the material for ongoing formation.

The Initial Proclamation is "the permanent priority of mission", to which "all forms of missionary activity tend" (John Paul II, Redemptoris Missio, n. 44). It is different from "kerygma" that refers to the content of the proclamation which is the core of the Christian faith, and it seeks rather to establish relationships and stir in the minds and hearts the interest in knowing the person of Jesus Christ and, ultimately, to have faith in Him.

Published 16/11/2015