Bishop Francis Serrao Urges Christians to Deepen Their Union with Christ at Ecumenical Gathering in Mysuru

MYSURU, June 11, 2026: Christians from various denominations gathered in Mysuru for the monthly Breakfast Fellowship Meeting of the United Christian Forum (UCF), where Bishop Francis Serrao of Mysore called on believers to remain firmly rooted in Christ, emphasizing that genuine Christian unity and fruitful ministry flow from a living relationship with Jesus.

The gathering, held at CSI Hardwicke Church in Lakshmipuram, brought together clergy, religious and lay faithful for prayer, reflection and ecumenical fellowship. Hosted by Pastor Great Full, the event was attended by representatives of different Christian traditions, members of UCF Mysuru and the SMMI Congregation.

Delivering the keynote reflection, Bishop Francis Serrao, who also serves as President of UCF Mysuru, drew inspiration from the Gospel passage John 15:1-8, in which Jesus declares, “I am the Vine; you are the Branches.” He stressed that Christians can bear lasting spiritual fruit only by remaining united with Christ through prayer, Sacred Scripture, the Eucharist and faithful discipleship.

Reflecting on the seven “I Am” declarations found in the Gospel of John, the Bishop said these profound statements reveal the identity and mission of Jesus while inviting believers into a deeper communion with Him. Referring to Jesus as the Bread of Life, the Light of the World, the Good Shepherd, the Way, the Truth and the Life, and the True Vine, he encouraged participants to encounter Christ personally and live out their faith with conviction.

Highlighting the importance of discipleship, Bishop Francis noted that every Christian is first called to be a disciple before becoming an apostle. Drawing from the Gospel account of Mary and Martha, he observed that while Martha was occupied with many tasks, Mary chose first to sit at the feet of Jesus and listen to His word. Effective ministry, he said, can only emerge from a deep and personal relationship with Christ.

To illustrate the path of spiritual growth, the Bishop referred to the traditional stages of learning expressed in the Sanskrit concepts of Śravaṇa (listening), Manana (reflection), Nididhyāsana (deep meditation) and Anuṣṭhāna (practice). He encouraged believers not merely to hear the Word of God but to reflect upon it, internalise it and put it into action in their daily lives.

“The Gospel must become visible through love, service, compassion and commitment to God’s mission,” he said, reminding the gathering that Christians are called not only to proclaim the Gospel but also to become living witnesses of it.

Using vivid imagery, Bishop Francis explained that just as a dancer cannot be separated from the dance, water from a fountain, or waves from the ocean, a disciple cannot be separated from Christ. Authentic discipleship, he said, requires an intimate union with Jesus in thought, word and action.

Addressing the challenges faced by committed Christians, the Bishop observed that people throw stones only at trees that bear good fruit. Those who uphold truth, justice and Gospel values may encounter criticism and opposition, he said, but such trials should strengthen rather than discourage them.

He also pointed to the witness of St. Teresa of Calcutta, noting that despite enduring periods of spiritual darkness and personal struggle, she remained faithful to God's call and mission. True discipleship, he said, is measured not by the absence of difficulties but by perseverance in faith and service.

Concluding his address, Bishop Francis called for deeper ecumenical collaboration among the churches of Mysuru. He urged Christians to remain united with Christ, the True Vine, so that they may bear lasting fruits of love, peace, holiness, unity and service.

The message resonated strongly with participants as UCF Mysuru continued its efforts to strengthen fellowship and foster a common Christian witness among the various denominations in the city.

By Fr. Arul Selva Kumar, Mysuru