In a significant step towards enhancing their pastoral and ministerial capabilities, Rev Fr Ajay Xaxa SDB and Rev Fr Sachin Kujur SDB departed from the city on the morning of Wednesday, 03 September 2025. Their destination is the Don Bosco Renewal Centre in Bangalore, where they will undertake a comprehensive three-week course in Counselling Skills and Practice.

The intensive programme, scheduled to run from 04^th to 23^rd September 2025, is designed specifically for individuals engaged in various helping professions within the community. It targets those working in formation houses, educational and technical institutions, hospitals, hostels, boarding schools, and orphanages, as well as those involved in parish ministry and priestly duties who seek to formalize and advance their practical skills in counselling.

Recognizing the profound importance of their journey and studies, a special prayer was offered for the two confreres during a Holy Mass celebrated before their departure. The prayer congregation sought divine blessings for their safe travel and for their fruitful engagement with the course material.

The curriculum of the course is both rigorous and holistic, covering essential areas such as therapeutic counselling models and approaches, advanced listening skills, and the healing of emotions. A pivotal component of the training includes supervised practice sessions, allowing participants to apply their learning in a guided environment. The course also aims to integrate these psychological skills with the principles of spiritual direction and pastoral accompaniment, creating a well-rounded approach to human care.

Expressing their gratitude, Fr. Xaxa and Fr. Kujur acknowledged the support of their province for providing this valuable opportunity. They believe that the professional training will be instrumental in their ongoing priestly ministry, equipping them with advanced tools to better serve and guide the community members who seek their counsel and support.