The Episcopal City Deanery and Chair in Christianity Jointly Organize a Convention

Mangaluru: The Episcopal City Deanery and the Chair in Christianity jointly organized a convention at the Fr. Muller Medical College Hospital Convention Center this evening from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m.

Members of the Varado Pastoral Parishad and the Parish Pastoral Parishad from 11 parishes were in attendance. The program commenced with a prayer song led by the Bijai Parish. The Dean, Fr. Bonaventure Nazareth, introduced the program, highlighted the significance of the convention, and welcomed the gathering. Fr. Muller Medical College Hospital presented a Kavali, showcasing the past, present, and future of the Church.

The main topic was introduced by Fr. Maxim D’Souza, and the speakers were presented. Rev. Dr. J.B. Saldanha discussed the state of the Church before Vatican Council II and linked the changes to the Church’s current affairs. Mr. Francis D’Cunha spoke about the opportunities for laypeople to be more involved in the Church, while Rev. Dr. Antony George Pinto addressed the challenges faced today by the clergy, religious members, and laypeople within the Holy Mother Church.

The Jeppu Parish performed an enactment of the Parable of the Sower, and the Bendur Parish youth presented a skit on family values, emphasizing the importance of bonding for success in life.

Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha expressed appreciation for the Mangalorean community, calling for increased commitment to service and synodality. He also explained the Church’s relevance in modern times. The moderator emphasized the importance of the Parish Pastoral Parishad, the various commissions, and the established bodies of the Church in building up the community and supporting the people of God.

Dr. Ritesh and Dr. Shannon served as the event’s emcees, while Mr. John D’Silva proposed the vote of thanks. The participants expressed their appreciation for the informative sessions. The evening concluded with dinner, shared in a spirit of joy and togetherness. Approximately 560 people attended the event.