A canonical visitation is usually carried out by the bishop or the superior of the order. The aim of this visitation is to promote spiritual vitality, to strengthen relationships by building a community, to ensure life in ecclesiastical discipline and to confirm fidelity to the charism of the founder.                                                The canonical visit before the beginning of the provincial assembly will help the administration to form a better picture of the province. However, one could consider the following points during the canonical visit.           

Promote spirituality,  Strengthen community   and   Relevance of the charism today .                                                                                                                                            Promoting Spirituality: The life of  is the centre of the priest’s life. ‘Walking in the footsteps of our patron, we seek to find harmony in union with God in prayer and apostolic life” (SAC 42). The life of prayer is necessary to channel our energy in the right direction and to be a source of hope in the Lord for the people we serve. This is why Pallotti says: “Direct your first thoughts in the morning to God with short and fervent prayer. Before you go to sleep, do not forget this one thing – examine your conscience.” (John, 1 January 1980)  The administration wants to say that it is also united with the members in prayer. A priest without prayer, who carries out all activities, is like a member working in an NGO; prayer life makes a difference.                                                                             

Strengthen Community:  A community is made up of members with different temperaments. By embracing the uniqueness of each member, we endeavour to grow together and bring out the best in ourselves. (CCC 1906) Canonical visitation contributes to a more cohesive relationship by staying united even in differences and strengthening unity with responsibility. The administration also deals with the formulation of disciplinary measures when necessary for the common good.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Relevance of the Charism Today: The visitation helps to refocus each member on the charism that the founder sought in the present time as defined by the province. The administration makes the members realise that no personal ministry is more important than that of the province. Thus, emphasising on ‘the tenants of Pallottine charism, which includes revive faith, renew love, and unite all in Christ’ (SAC Preamble 6). To achieve this objective the Provincial reviews the ministry, activities undertaken, accounts, minutes, etc., while considering the conduct of the members and aids in being relevant in the now.            Conclusion: ‘To promote joy and not burden in the work that we do, it is necessary to submit ourselves in confidence to the authority.’ (Heb. 13: 17) The formal visitation re-enhances the member’s confidence in the superior, continuously elevates oneself and reenforces operational and ethical standards. Thus, leading to an improved leadership with optimum co-operation and safe keeping.