"An Eye-Opener": Mysore -Hunsur Deanery Transforms Faith Education with Synodal Training in HD Kote

H D KOTE, 18 AUGUST — In an earnest effort to rejuvenate faith education, a full-day Training and Orientation programme was held on August 18 for the Sunday and School Catechism Teachers of the Hunsur Deanery, Diocese of Mysore. Focused on adopting a "Synodal Way" of teaching, the enriching event drew 51 dedicated participants eager to enhance their catechetical ministry.

The programme was organized by the Commission for Faith Formation, Diocese of Mysore, under the pastoral guidance and steadfast support of the Most Rev. Dr. Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of Mysore. The initiative was spearheaded by Fr. Arul Selva Kumar, Secretary of the Commission for Faith Formation. Rev. Fr. Bernard Prakash Barnis, the parish priest of St. Mary's Church, HD Kote, graciously hosted the entire event, ensuring a welcoming environment for all attendees.

Rev. Fr. Vijay Machado, Executive Secretary of the Commission for Faith Formation (CCBI), served as the primary Resource Person for the day. Through a series of engaging group workshops and interactive sessions, Fr. Machado guided the teachers through a comprehensive curriculum.

Key themes and subjects explored during the training included:

• The Current Faith Situation: Understanding the diverse spiritual landscapes of different demographic groups, including Gen Z, millennials, adults, and senior citizens.
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• Catechetical Ministry: A thorough general introduction to the foundations and goals of teaching the faith.
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• Synodal Approaches: Integrating the Pope's vision of a listening, journeying, and participatory Church into classroom settings.
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• Modern Challenges and Positives: An honest look at the advantages and hurdles faced in today's unique socio-cultural climate.
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• Dialogical Methodology: Moving away from rote memorization toward a conversational and interactive way of teaching catechism.
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The impact of the full-day session was deeply felt among the 51 participants, many of whom actively shared their positive takeaways during the concluding interactive segments.

Reflecting on the day's insights, one participant remarked, "It was an eye-opener to all of us." Another teacher noted, "This seminar helped us to truly evaluate ourselves and our teaching methods." Participants universally appreciated the practical nature of the workshops, stating, "We learnt new techniques and tools that we can immediately use." The prevailing sentiment at the close of the event was a strong desire for continued growth, with many expressing, "We need such trainings on a periodical basis."

The successful orientation marks a significant step forward for the Hunsur Deanery in equipping its educators to nurture faith in a dynamic, synodal, and dialogical manner.

Report by Fr. Arul Selva Kumar