Formation is another vital area of the Province's life and ministry. The Province is blessed with a healthy number of vocations, particularly from the northern and central parts of India. While vocations from the southern and western regions have been declining in recent years, the steady and encouraging response from the north continues to be a source of hope for the Province's future.
Candidates are currently accompanied through four stages of formation within the Province: the initiation year, college studies, regency, and theological studies. The earlier stages — Postulancy, Novitiate, and Philosophy — continue to be undertaken in close collaboration with the Mother Province, the Province of St. Thomas the Apostle, India.
Forming candidates for Franciscan life and priesthood is both a great responsibility and a significant challenge, requiring not only qualified formators and suitable formation communities, but also considerable financial resources to cover education, accommodation, food, healthcare, travel, books, and other necessities across the long formation journey. Finding adequate space and facilities for a growing number of candidates presents an additional challenge.
Despite these difficulties, the Province considers the formation of young friars a priority and an investment in its future. Through prudent management and the generous support of benefactors and well-wishers, the Province continues to provide the opportunities and facilities its candidates need. The Province is deeply grateful to its many generous donors, both in India and abroad, whose support makes it possible for young men from economically poor backgrounds to pursue their vocation and receive the human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral formation they need.
