By Frs Ian Doulton &  Joyston Machado for BIS Mumbai

Lonavla, April 21-27, 2025: After recently completing their Std XII exams, seven determined young men from Lonavla and Alirajpur gathered at Don Bosco, Lonavla, for a week of intensive soul-searching, discernment, and guidance in preparation for their entry into the Pre-Novitiate.

Fr. Ian Doulton, Fr. Joyston Machado, and Br. Aliester D'Souza accompanied them. The week offered a dynamic blend of spiritual formation, personal reflection, interactive activities, and vocational discernment.

This experience was designed to be more than just an orientation towards the Salesian way of life; it served as a foundational moment for personal assessment—a key component of the discernment process. Each participant was introduced to the essential areas of formation required for Salesian life and was guided through a structured self-evaluation each day. With clarity and compassion, they were encouraged to face their emotions honestly while reflecting on their emotional, spiritual, and psychological growth and understanding of their faith. They also examined their motivations and readiness, which would lay the groundwork for their vocational journey ahead.

The programme was deeply pastoral as well. Throughout the week, Fr. Ian Doulton made himself available to meet with each young man individually, offering a safe space to share, reflect on their past experiences, and address any concerns or emotional struggles that arose during the sessions. These one-on-one conversations provided comfort, insight, and fostered healing, self-awareness, and a sense of being truly accompanied.

Each day began with the Eucharist and Lectio Divina with the Pre-Novitiate Programme (PFP) group, grounding the participants in prayer and the Salesian presence. 

The sessions explored key themes such as understanding vocation, discovering one’s call, listening deeply, and discerning with clarity—drawing from Scripture, Salesian texts, and real-life reflections. Creative sessions like “Simulation Games” and engaging discussions on topics such as “Jesus Interviews You” and “Dreams to Reality” helped participants internalize values and formulate concrete plans. Silence, interiority, group sharing, and guided media reflections further enriched the experience.

The week culminated with the “10 Points of Discernment” and a renewed commitment to walk with Jesus. This initiative, held in the serene setting of Lonavla, beautifully embodied the Salesian spirit of accompaniment, empowering young hearts to listen to God’s call with openness and joy. The Province of Bombay continues to support these young men as they courageously and faithfully discern their futures.