Five-Day Formation in Dhalwal Deepens Faith, Leadership, and Missionary Zeal
Dhalwal – July 14, 2025
The SOMA School of Missionary Animators, in collaboration with Dar-ul-Kalam, successfully conducted a five-day intensive program on Religious Education at Mission School, Dhalwal, bringing together 40 participants from various dioceses and communities across the country. The formation initiative aimed to deepen understanding of Catholic doctrine, foster interfaith awareness, and strengthen the missionary identity of educators and animators.
The program was facilitated by an experienced team of priests and religious leaders: Rev. Fr. Zafar, Rev. Fr. Farhan, Rev. Fr. Asif Sardar, and Rev. Fr. Yermiah, with organizational support from Fr. Asif John, National Director of SOMA.
Faith and Formation in Action: Program Highlights
Day 1 opened with a warm welcome and orientation led by Fr. Asif John, who set the tone for the days ahead by emphasizing community, collaboration, and the shared missionary call. Ice-breaking sessions allowed participants to form bonds and reflect on their calling as missionary disciples.
Day 2 featured sessions on the Pontifical Missionary Childhood (PMC) led by Fr. Zafar and Sr. Ruksana, highlighting the evangelizing role of children and the importance of catechesis in families, schools, and parishes. Later, Fr. Farhan presented on Spe Salvi (“Saved in Hope”), Pope Benedict XVI’s encyclical, offering insights into Christian hope in contemporary society.
Day 3 brought a powerful focus on Pope Francis’s call to be “missionaries of hope”, with Fr. Yermiah exploring the scriptural foundations of evangelization and the missionary role of lay leaders. Fr. Asif Sardar followed with an engaging session on personal encounter with Christ, emphasizing that authentic mission begins with interior conversion, humility, and love rooted in the Gospel.
Day 4 was blessed with the presence of His Excellency Bishop Khalid Rehmat OFM Cap, Apostolic Vicar of Quetta, who offered an inspiring talk on the sacred vocation of missionary animators. He urged participants to remain resilient, faithful, and joyful in their service to the Church, particularly in challenging environments. The day concluded with a community-building excursion to Sukhi Lake, Katas Raj temples, and Dhok Tahlian Resort, offering opportunities for reflection, fellowship, and spiritual rest.
A Spirit of Unity and Commitment
Throughout the five days, participants showed high levels of enthusiasm and involvement in group discussions, prayer, liturgical celebrations, and practical workshops. Despite occasional time constraints, the training was a clear success in building missionary identity, pastoral creativity, and collaborative leadership among the participants.
The program also encouraged a deepened commitment to moral formation, spiritual discipline, and pastoral outreach, particularly for youth and marginalized communities.
Looking Forward: Sustaining the Mission
The SOMA Religious Education Program fulfilled its mission of forming well-equipped lay missionary animators, rooted in the teachings of the Church and ready to serve in today’s complex world. Organizers have recommended future follow-up programs and mentorship initiatives to sustain the missionary momentum and continue the spiritual formation of participants in their local contexts.
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