A series of important formation and administrative meetings for the Province were held from 17 to 19 August at Asirvanam, Benedictine Monastery, Bengaluru, bringing together the Provincial Definitory, Guardians, and Bursars for days of reflection, formation, and planning.
The proceedings began on 17 August with the animation of the Provincial Definitory by Br. Sahayaraj, OFM Cap, whose input set the tone for the days that followed, focusing on the deeper dimensions of Franciscan leadership and community life.
On 18 August, the Guardians of the Province joined the Definitory for a day dedicated to leadership formation and practical orientation. Br. Sahayaraj, OFM Cap continued to animate the session for both groups, reflecting on three interconnected themes: "Leading as Brothers: Building an Effective Franciscan Leadership Team," which explored how fraternal bonds form the foundation of collaborative and effective leadership within Franciscan communities; "Leading by Example: Credibility, Integrity, and Franciscan Witness," which emphasized the importance of personal witness, honesty, and consistency between word and life for those entrusted with leadership; and "Leading from Within: Mental Well-being and Emotional Resilience," which addressed the inner life of the leader, highlighting the need for emotional balance and psychological well-being as a basis for sustainable ministry.
Following this input, Br. John Sekar gave a detailed presentation to the Guardians covering several key administrative and formational tools, including the Handbook for Guardians, outlining their roles, responsibilities, and practical guidelines for local governance; guidelines on the House Chapter and Fraternal Life, underscoring the importance of regular, meaningful fraternal gatherings at the local level; the Life Project of the Community, encouraging Guardians to animate their communities toward shared, concrete goals rooted in the Franciscan charism; and the Worksheet for the General Chapter, preparing Guardians and their communities for active participation in the upcoming General Chapter process.
The gathering concluded on 19 August with the Bursars' Meet, focused on financial administration and accountability across the Province. The session was animated by Mr. Ayyanar, Chartered Accountant, together with Mr. Hari, Internal Auditor, while Br. Prasanna also contributed with practical guidelines for the Bursars, offering hands-on direction for sound financial management and stewardship at the community level.
Spread across three days, the meetings at Asirvanam provided a comprehensive space for the province’s leadership — from the Definitory to Guardians and Bursars — to reflect together on effective, credible, and emotionally grounded leadership, while also equipping them with practical tools for governance, fraternal life, and financial administration in their respective communities.
