• Fr. David Peramangalam OFM Cap

Every individual enters the world with a unique purpose, as depicted in the narrative of Genesis. The probing question posed by the Lord God to Adam, “Where are you?” and later to Cain, “Where is your brother?” underscores humanity’s inherent responsibility to both God and fellow beings. The poignant query, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” remains profoundly significant, emphasizing our interconnectedness and obligation to one another. Thus, our existence is not merely self-serving but imbued with a broader significance—a pro-existential stance that acknowledges the presence of others within ourselves.
This existential choice forms the foundation of each person’s mission, extending beyond self-interest to encompass a commitment to God and others. Indeed, our accountability to God and indebtedness to our fellow beings shape our purpose. This overarching mission is inherently intertwined with a pro-attitude towards God and fellow humans, reflecting a conscious choice for the betterment of others.
The concept of mission finds heightened expression in the consecrated life, as exemplified in the biblical narrative found in Matthew 19:16. The encounter between Jesus and the young man seeking eternal life encapsulates the essence of this calling. Jesus’ directive to “Go and sell all that you have and give to the poor and follow me” signifies a radical reorientation—an invitation to relinquish worldly possessions and embrace a life devoted to spiritual pursuit. This commission encapsulates the essence of priesthood, religious life, and consecrated vocation—a call to forsake worldly attachments and follow the path of spiritual fulfillment.
The priestly-religious lifestyle inherently embodies a countercultural ethos—an alternative narrative amidst a culture preoccupied with self-aggrandizement and material accumulation. It serves as a symbolic protest against the prevailing ethos of materialism, emphasizing the primacy of spiritual values over temporal pursuits. However, in an era dominated by a culture of individualism and materialism, the integrity of spirituality is often called into question. This dilemma is particularly pronounced in discussions surrounding vocations to the consecrated life within the framework of institutionalized spirituality.
The essence of consecrated life transcends institutional confines, embracing diverse expressions of spiritual experience that resonate with the contemporary ethos. It confronts the challenges posed by secularism and materialism, offering a compelling alternative rooted in spiritual depth and communal solidarity. This countercultural stance reaffirms the sacredness of consecrated vocation, imbuing it with renewed significance and relevance in a rapidly changing world.
In essence, the consecrated life represents a pro-existential choice—an affirmation of one’s commitment to God and humanity. It aligns with the divine plan, mirroring the selfless mission embodied by Christ himself. This spiritual vision underscores the profound significance of consecrated vocation, inviting all who are called to embrace it with reverence and conviction.

• How would you assess the current state of vocations to priesthood and religious life among men compared to 25 years ago, taking into account factors such as the number of aspirants, their sense of purpose, and their backgrounds?

The current landscape of vocations to priesthood and religious life among men reflects a noticeable shift from the situation 25 years ago. Today, we inhabit a world characterized by rapid changes and the pervasive influence of pop culture, particularly evident in regions like Kerala. The influx of ideas and trends from across the globe shapes the aspirations and backgrounds of those considering a life dedicated to priesthood or religious service.
In recent years, there has been a relative decline in the number of individuals aspiring to consecrated life, particularly among women entering religious orders and non-priestly male religious communities. This decline can be attributed to the understanding that the call to consecrated life, whether priesthood or monasticism, is not universally applicable. While there may have been greater allure towards religious priestly life in previous decades, the decrease in numbers today need not be cause for alarm or concern.
However, the testimony of those who wholeheartedly embrace their vocation can serve as a powerful catalyst for others who are truly called. The response to a vocation should stem solely from the conviction that the Lord has summoned one to this particular path. Any other motivations should be secondary, with this primary conviction driving the decision to enter religious life or priesthood.

“The priestly-religious lifestyle inherently embodies a countercultural ethos–an alternative narrative amidst a culture preoccupied with self-aggrandizement and material accumulation. It serves as a symbolic protest against the prevailing ethos of materialism, emphasizing the primacy of spiritual values over temporal pursuits.”

The diminishing number of individuals who grasp this calling today can be attributed to the allure of worldly comforts and conveniences, which make the sacrifices inherent in consecrated life less appealing. Yet, this decline is viewed as a natural phenomenon rather than a cause for dismay. It reflects the evolving priorities and attitudes of contemporary society, where the spirit of absolute dedication to a divine calling is increasingly rare.
This shift in perspective is indicative of broader societal changes, and it prompts a realistic evaluation of the motivations driving individuals towards consecrated life. Each member of the consecrated community must introspect whether their own life bears witness to the profound calling they have embraced.
Undeniably, the challenges and controversies facing the Church today inevitably impact the perceptions and decisions of young men and women considering a religious vocation. However, those who are truly called will prioritize their conviction above all else, remaining steadfast in their commitment despite external influences.
In conclusion, while the current state of vocations to priesthood and religious life may present challenges, it also offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal within the consecrated community. By reaffirming the significance of their calling and exemplifying its transformative power, members of the consecrated life can inspire future generations to embrace their own divine missions with clarity and conviction.

• It’s often noted that the availability of priesthood tends to attract more vocations to male congregations than to female ones. Do you agree with this observation, and do you think that vocations to male religious life without priesthood are truly declining?

The undeniable reality is that the number of aspirants to religious life without priesthood is on the decline. While it’s challenging to assess the intentions of those entering priesthood, there are observable factors that may contribute to this trend. The priesthood offers certain privileges, such as social status and priority in spiritual ministries, along with provisions for conducting these ministries more effectively. These aspects may indeed be attractive factors for individuals considering a religious vocation.

To address this situation, it’s imperative to strive for a better position for religious women and non-priestly religious men within the Church. Dioceses should allocate more roles and ministries to them, integrating them into mainstream spiritual activities. While some dioceses already practice this, efforts to boost their presence and involvement in the Church’s spiritual ministries are crucial. It’s essential to convey to them that they have a distinct mission within the Church, and they possess the capability to excel in mainstream ministries and institutional structures. This recognition is not just desirable but their right as members of the Church.

Pope Francis’s progressive initiatives in the Roman Curia and Pontifical Universities serve as examples for similar changes within the Kerala Church. Implementing these changes would foster inclusivity and imbue non-priestly religious individuals with a renewed sense of purpose in their vocation. Religious individuals should not confine their vocations to traditional roles like teaching or nursing but should be entrusted with significant responsibilities in the spiritual realm. This conviction should be embraced both by them and the Church.

Appointing nuns and non-priestly religious men as teachers in seminaries, involving them in various positions within the diocesan Curia and pastoral councils, are steps towards realizing this vision. While it may not be feasible to replicate everything done in European culture, it’s essential to assess what is achievable within our own cultural context. This approach reflects an acknowledgment of the signs of the times and a commitment to adapt and evolve in response to the changing landscape of religious life.

• Has the recent resurgence within the Church catalyzed by the charismatic movement led to a rise in vocations? How do you perceive the influence of the charismatic movement on the growth of vocations?

Over time, Jesus Youth has been instrumental in fostering numerous vocations within the Church. A considerable number of professionals, including doctors, engineers, and postgraduates, have answered the call to priesthood through this movement. It’s a testament to the diverse paths through which the Lord guides individuals according to His will. Moreover, many women are also embracing religious life through the influence of Jesus Youth.

It’s a source of pride that Jesus Youth continues to identify and nurture such individuals, with one or two individuals joining the congregation annually. Charismatic spirituality, embodied by this movement, has significantly contributed to the promotion of vocations, particularly among professionals.

• Do the examples and lifestyles of current religious individuals influence the vocations of the younger generation? Could the perception that religious life lacks challenge or adventure deter teenagers from considering it?

When speaking with those who have chosen a consecrated life, many attribute their decision to the special intervention of a brother, a nun, or a priest who inspired them along their journey. This sentiment is often expressed in gratitude speeches during Holy Ordination ceremonies, where individuals fondly remember the men and women of consecrated life who served as guiding lights in their path. Clearly, the lives of priests and nuns have a profoundly positive impact on aspiring vocations.
However, it’s important to acknowledge the flip side of this coin: there are instances where negative examples exist. Spirituality has sometimes become institutionalized and rigid, leading to challenges in maintaining a consistent Christian witness, especially when ministering through institutions. Recognizing this reality, religious congregations are actively seeking to make a difference by entering new fields of activity and identifying areas where their vocation can be expressed as forms of contemporary witness. Whether these changes directly increase vocations or not is secondary; the primary focus is on fulfilling their present mission, leaving the outcome in God’s hands.
Today, the influence of a new generation culture is palpable. While in the past there were anti-church ideologies, the current landscape is different, with individuals holding diverse beliefs and perspectives, including views on spirituality beyond traditional religious constructs. In this context, priests and religious have a unique responsibility to impart Christian beliefs and values to young people in a meaningful way, even as they adapt to accommodate the evolving needs of the youth.
It’s evident that at times, the youth may drift away from the Church due to perceived neglect or disconnect. Therefore, there’s a pressing need for the Church to prioritize the concerns of the youth, just as it does with educational and healthcare ministries. By actively engaging with young people, addressing their needs, and offering support and guidance, the Church can effectively advance its mission and remain relevant in contemporary society.
It’s imperative for religious individuals to move beyond institutional boundaries and reach out to address the pressing issues facing the youth. While there are already some commendable initiatives in this regard, greater visibility and concerted efforts are necessary to truly make a difference. By leveraging the Church’s resources and drawing on successful models from educational and medical ministries, the Church can effectively address contemporary challenges such as drug addiction and provide meaningful support to the youth.

• How have priestly and religious training methods evolved over time, and do they require further updates?

Over time, there have been significant changes in the realm of religious and priestly formation, marking a departure from the methods employed thirty years ago. A new curriculum has emerged, placing greater emphasis on human development, psycho-spiritual growth, and social engagement within the framework of religious and priestly training. These updates are making a noticeable difference in shaping the formation of aspirants.
In my own Capuchin community, we have implemented numerous enhancements, such as a deeper exploration of the Franciscan way of life. Similar adaptations have been made in priestly and religious training across various religious communities and dioceses. Efforts are underway at all levels to foster a training environment that prioritizes the holistic development of aspirants, with a focus on people-centered formation. Diocesan seminaries, religious seminaries, and nun formation houses have embraced this emphasis on social formation, reflecting a commitment to preparing individuals for a prophetic role in spiritual ministry.
However, I must acknowledge a potential pitfall that I see in men’s training houses. While it’s crucial to remain current and contemporary, there’s a risk that the level of aspirants may dictate the depth of training imparted. Many aspirants come from a world characterized by digital comforts and instant gratification, posing challenges to traditional principles of the Church and consecrated life. Upholding values like obedience and simplicity may seem daunting in today’s world, presenting a real challenge for religious formation.
Yet, it’s essential to strike a balance between remaining rooted in tradition and adapting to the realities of the modern world. Spirituality should not be confined to rigid adherence to stringent rules, nor should it blindly embrace the trends of the times. Rather, a holistic approach that fosters discussion and debate is needed in religious training and formation. This approach ensures that aspirants are equipped to navigate the complexities of contemporary society while remaining true to the timeless values of their faith and vocation.