The Asia-Oceania Conference was a deeply enriching six-day gathering held in Sydney. Fr. Roel dela Cruz SSS, General Treasurer and Consultor in charge of Asia-Oceania, participated along with all the provincials of the region. It was a meaningful experience of listening, sharing, interaction, and communal living in the spirit of St. Peter Julian Eymard.
SSS Brothers’ Meet
The first-ever SSS Brothers' Meet was organized by the Asia-Oceania Conference from 19-24 February, 2024, in the Christ the Bread of Life Province of Sri Lanka. This historic gathering fostered deep conversations, active participation, and valuable insights. Brothers expressed their openness to assume administrative roles and their willingness to serve in overseas missions. Encouraged by the positive response, we plan to organize the next meeting in 2027.
Formation for Formators
The Asia-Oceania Conference convened a gathering of Formators from various provinces in the Kristu Jyoti Province, India from 15-22, September, 2024, in Goa. The event was graced by the presence of Fr. Anaclet Bambala SSS, General Consultor in charge of formation, and Fr. Roel dela Cruz SSS, General Treasurer and Consultor for Asia-Oceania.
The discussions centred on key challenges and opportunities in formation today. Formators expressed gratitude for the valuable guidance of resource persons, who provided deep insights on The Art of Accompaniment and Understanding Formees in the Digital-Techno World. Recognizing the need for continuous learning, the formators committed to updating their knowledge through regular communication and periodic online sessions.
Reflecting Together
A significant part of our gathering was dedicated to study the final message of the 36th General Chapter. We reaffirmed our commitment to international collaboration and planned various programs for the next two years to strengthen this mission.
The IP4 (Programme of Preparation Perpetual Profession) experience was highlighted as a key initiative that fosters international exposure and enriches participants with the SSS charism. We resolved to explore further collaborations in formation in line with SSS Internationality.
Formation of the Provincials
Our mutual sharing proved invaluable as we reflected on themes presented at the Formation of Provincials sessions, including: Gift of Self – Eymardian Spirituality and SSS Charism – A Passion.
These reflections will guide our respective provinces in strengthening our spiritual and pastoral commitments. We also welcome contributions from any province regarding innovative methods or approaches that have been successfully implemented.
Gratitude and Leadership Continuity
The Conference expressed its confidence in the current leadership team, entrusting them with their responsibilities until the upcoming chapters. The newly appointed secretary was also welcomed. They are: President: Fr. D. Peter Jayakanthan SSS, Vice President: Fr. Justin Chawkan SSS, Secretary: Fr. Rudsend P. Paragas SSS, Treasurer: Fr. Philip Watkins SSS.
A special word of gratitude was extended to the Province of the Holy Spirit – Australia, under the leadership of Fr. Philip Watkins SSS, for their generous hospitality and meticulous organization of the Asia-Oceania Conference. Their warm welcome and dedicated efforts created a profound sense of belonging and Eucharistic communion. One participant even remarked, “We can gather in Sydney for any emergency meeting!”
We also express our sincere appreciation to our Superior General and his council for their unwavering support and encouragement. It was a joy to have Fr. Roel dela Cruz SSS from the General Council journeying with us during this gathering.
This conference was truly a moment of renewal and deepening our identity as SSS religious and strengthening our mission of Eucharistic life and service.
Father Dorai Peter Jayakanthan sss
for Asia – Oceania Conference
March 2025
