Another video of our series with a few religious women who are taking part in the Programme for the Preparation of Formators. Let’s see what Sr. Bahuncy Saioo of the Congregation of Our Lady of the Missions learned:

“I realized judgement is not the conclusion of anything or everything. Knowing and understanding the culture of every ‘formee’ is very important for me as a formator, and to become more aware of the way I use the language in guiding them”.

Among the lessons learned in the past few months Sr. Bahuncy mentions “listening with my  heart and without judgement” and “to relate one another in the community to help the formees value community life”.

Moreover, the religious woman from India acknowledges it is comfortable to be a leader all the time, but it is relaxing to be part of a group, too.

“Running away from conflicts will really not give an adequate answer to my problems. It is important to welcome and identify them,” stresses Sr. Bahuncy and continues:

Likewise, it is essential that we formators do not oblige, but invite people to grow in their life, says the Indian religious:

“The young ones will not remember what you taught them and what they learned, but they will learn from the example. And I am happy to remind myself and to relearn that my first call is to be a good human being, keeping in mind the invitation to be a light of hope for those I will accompany in my journey today and tomorrow.”

Thanks to the programme, Sr. Bahuncy reflect on the place and empowerment of women which is an unresolved challenge for her:

“I really ask myself where is the safe space for us, women, if not in our family, home, society, church, not even in our own country, then where is the safe place for us? This is really a challenge and a big question for ourselves.”

Programme for the Preparation of Formators runs from January 13 to July 4, 2025. It is in English and takes place on-site at the UISG seat in Rome.

We accept applications for 2026.

Click Here for more information and registration check.
 

The programme offers various ways to help the participant integrate the content of the programme including personal reflection, group work and interaction, and mentoring. Each participant assumes the responsibility for her own human and spiritual growth and commits herself to active and engaged participation.