Initial formation: Meeting of the MSC Initial Formation Commission

The MSC Initial Formation Commission held a meeting at the Generalate House in Rome from 8 to 12 June 2026. The meeting was attended by the members of the commission: Humberto Henrique, Javier Barrio, Bram Tulusan, Juan Corona, Everton, Yongky Wawo, Simon Lumpini and Krish Mathavan.

The meeting began with a shared reflection on the Emmaus journey, which serves as the primary inspiration for the formation process within the Congregation. Through personal reflection, group sharing and community dialogue, participants were invited to reconsider how the Risen Christ continues to walk alongside His disciples and is present in the formation journey of every MSC member. This experience formed the spiritual foundation for all discussions throughout the meeting.

One of the main focuses was an in-depth study of the document Emmaus: Formation of the Heart. The members of the commission examined the various recommendations contained in the document and discussed their implications for initial formation within the diverse cultural contexts of the Congregation. Special attention was given to how formation can better help formands to grow through the four movements of the heart: encounter, intimacy, conversion and mission.

In addition, the commission reflected on formulating the group’s identity and determining the program and areas of focus for the next two years. These discussions aimed to clarify the commission’s role in supporting formators and ensuring that initial formation remains faithful to the MSC charism whilst remaining relevant to the challenges of our times.

During the meeting, participants also heard input from the General Superior, the Congregation’s Commission for Ongoing Formation, and the Safeguarding Office. The various perspectives shared helped to strengthen collaboration between commissions and enrich the vision of integral formation for the entire Congregation.

The meeting concluded with a celebration of the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus together with the Generalate community. This celebration was a moment of thanksgiving and a reaffirmation of the MSC’s call to form hearts that are ever more like the Heart of Christ and ready to be sent forth on the Church’s mission.

Bram Tulusan, MSC. Indonesian Province