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Seminar on “Mission 2030” for Newly Elected Parish Pastoral Council Held at 
Mount Rosary Church, Santhekatte–Kallianpur.

Mount Rosary was blessed with a spiritually uplifting and thought-provoking seminar on “Mission 2030” for the newly elected Parish Pastoral Council members, held on 15th January 2026, in the Mini Hall. This programme formed part of the pastoral initiative of the Bishop of Udupi Diocese, Rt Rev Dr Gerald Issac Lobo, who has been personally visiting all parishes to appraise, encourage, and empower lay leadership. Mount Rosary Church had the honour of being the 22nd parish in this meaningful diocesan mission.

The two-hour seminar continued till 6.15 pm was divided into two insightful sessions:

 “I Have Loved You” – Reflection on Dilexi Te
The first session was animated by Rev Fr Jithesh Castelino, Director, Diocesan Commission for Bible and Faith Formation. He presented a profound reflection on “I Have Loved You”, inspired by Pope Leo XIV’s first Apostolic Exhortation Dilexi Te.

This powerful meditation highlighted Christ’s boundless love for the poor and marginalized, calling the faithful to become living witnesses of compassion, mercy, and service. Fr Jithesh beautifully connected the message of the exhortation with the mission of the Church, urging the council members to respond to God’s love through concrete acts of charity and social concern.
 Role and Responsibilities of the Laity

The second and most impactful session was personally handled by Bishop Gerald Lobo, who elaborated on the vocation and responsibilities of the laity in building a vibrant Church. He explained the importance and functioning of the 20 Pastoral Commissions, emphasizing areas such as care for the poor, social justice, evangelization, youth formation, and ecological responsibility.

His inspiring words ignited a renewed zeal among the members to serve the Church and society with commitment and humility.
The workshop commenced prayerfully at 4.00 pm with the reading of Holy Scripture, invoking God’s grace upon the gathering. The Mission 2030 logo was solemnly unveiled by Vicar Rev Dr Roque D’Souza in the presence of assistant parish priest Rev Fr Rohan Muscarenhas, parish leaders, symbolizing a collective commitment to a mission-oriented parish.

This seminar proved to be a spiritual milestone, strengthening faith and awakening social responsibility among the council members. The Bishop’s pastoral presence and fatherly guidance made the programme deeply meaningful and memorable.

May this initiative bear abundant fruits as the Parish Pastoral Council journeys forward with faith, unity, and compassionate service to the poor and needy.

Reported by Archibald Furtado 
Photographs arranged by Praveen Cutinho