Thomas Anchukandam – Theological Formation of Salesians in India with Special Reference to Kristu Jyoti College. Bangalore (1967-1976)

The text deals with the theological formation of the Salesians in India, with particular reference to the Kristu Jyoti College (KJC) in Bangalore, in the period 1967-1976. The decision to move the Salesian Studentate of Theology from Shillong to Bangalore was influenced by natural disasters and wars, including the Indo-Chinese War of 1962. Bangalore was chosen for its advantages as a growing metropolis with a mild climate and several prestigious church institutions.

The KJC curriculum and community life were organised to prepare Salesians to effectively serve the post-World War II society and the post-Vatican II Church in a multi-religious and multi-cultural Indian context. Since its inception, the KJC has distinguished itself by its ability to read the signs of the times and respond with creativity and dedication. A team of qualified resident professors and numerous guest professors, including members of various Christian denominations and non-Christian religions, has helped to achieve the desired results. The KJC’s facilities have enabled it to host international congresses and seminars, such as the Second Asian Monastic Congress in 1973 and the Inter-Faith Seminar on Prayer in 1974, giving staff and students the opportunity to interact with eminent personalities. A significant aspect of the formation offered by the KJC was the opportunity for students to engage with the poor in the surrounding villages and participate in youth apostolate in the parishes of the Archdiocese of Bangalore.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Acronyms
• Author’s note
• CHAPTER ONE: Salesian studentate of theology – from Mawlai to Bangalore
• CHAPTER TWO: Kristu Jyoti College – a point of arrival and a point of departure
• CHAPTER THREE: Imparting a contextualized formation
• CHAPTER FOUR: Trend-setting contributions to church and society
• Conclusion
• Appendix
• Photo appendix
• Archival sources – bibliography – citology
• Index of personal names
• General table of contents

Reference time period: 1967 – 1976

Reference institution:
Istituto Storico Salesiano