Claret Villa (Shillong)

The students do their theology studies at Oriens Theological College at Mawlai-Motsyiar. Since its foundation, 40 students have been ordained missionary priests from Claret Villa. Many work in different parts of India and abroad, mainly in Northeast India. For a few years initially, the house also served as a Minor seminary until a new minor seminary was established at Umsning. Currently, this house also serves as the Office of the Independent Delegation and the official residence of the Major Superior.

Currently, nine Claretian scholastics are having their theological formation in this house. Being in the final stage of their initial formation before they commit themselves to full-time service in the Margins, the students undergo rigorous studies in theology, earning a degree (B. Th) while also engaging in various ministries in the margins during the weekend. During this phase, students also make their “Perpetual Profession” by taking vows in perpetuity, thereby becoming life-term members of the Claretian Order. Toward the end of the theology formation, students who are found eligible receive Minor Orders. Later they receive the Order of Diaconate and finally, the Ordination to ministerial Priesthood. Upon Ordination, they are assigned to various full-time ministries. Some of them are assigned to further specialization in view of the ministries as well.