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Priests of Mangalore Diocese Converge for Pastoral Consultation 2025

MANGALORE, APRIL 10, 2025: In a spirit of Unum Presbyterium and shared pastoral responsibility, over 225 priests—both diocesan and religious—serving in various parishes and institutions of the Diocese of Mangalore gathered for the annual Pastoral Consultation held on April 9 and 10 at St Antony’s Charity Institutes, Jeppu. This two-day gathering served as a significant moment of communion and collaboration among the clergy, offering an opportunity to deliberate on important pastoral concerns impacting the faithful of the diocese.

Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, who presided over the event, set the tone for the consultation by emphasising the importance of unity in mission. In his inaugural address, he said, “This gathering is a celebration of coming together of priests who have a shared mission of the Church. It is a day to meet and greet every priest of the diocese, share experiences, and address pastoral challenges. This consultation will guide all of us to collaborate and participate within the diocese for a more fruitful ministry.” The consultation centred around the theme ‘Pastoral Issues’, with each session focusing on specific areas of concern raised by the various deaneries of the diocese.

The first day commenced with prayer led by Fr Walter D’Mello from Beltangady Deanery, followed by a warm welcome from the Bishop. The sessions began with reflections and discussions on the Family Apostolate, animated by Fr Victor D’Mello, Fr Alwyn D’Souza and Fr Santhosh Rodrigues. This was followed by a session on Children and Adult Catechesis, led by Fr Vijay Machado and Fr Harry D’Souza. After a brief midday prayer by Fr Maxim D’Souza and a fellowship lunch, the afternoon session dealt with Youth Ministry and the Small Christian Community Apostolate, guided by Fr Ashwin Cardoza and Fr Sunil George Dsouza. The day was filled with enriching interactions, insightful inputs, and shared concerns that resonate across the diocese.

The second day began with prayer by Fr Anil Lobo from the John Paul Shrine, followed by sessions on property and finance matters led by Fr Maxim Rosario and Fr Jagadish Pinto. These sessions addressed practical challenges in administration and the stewardship of resources. A session on other pressing pastoral issues was animated by Msgr Maxim Noronha, the Vicar General of the diocese. Following the discussions, two important general body meetings—of the Parish Union and the Priest Aid Fund (PAF)—were held under the leadership of the Bishop, providing updates and decisions related to the welfare of parishes and priests.

The event also included moments of celebration and recognition. Senior priest Rev. Fr Andrew Lewis was felicitated on his Golden Jubilee of priestly ordination, while Fr Michael Santhumayor was honoured on the occasion of his 60th birthday. The Bishop and other dignitaries offered their gratitude and appreciation for their years of dedicated service to the Church.

A book of spiritual reflections authored by Fr Basil Vas, parish priest of Vorkady, and published by Mangala Jyothi was released during the consultation.

The entire programme was coordinated by Rev. Fr Joseph Martis, Secretary of the Council of Priests, with documentation of the proceedings carried out by Fr Kenneth Crasta, Fr Vishal Monis, and Fr Jason Monis. Local arrangements and hospitality were overseen by Rev. Fr J.B. Crasta, Director of St Anthony Ashram, Jeppu. The 2025 Pastoral Consultation proved to be a meaningful occasion for reflection, renewal, and recommitment to the pastoral mission entrusted to the clergy of the Diocese of Mangalore.