Canon Law Society of Karnataka Holds Annual Conference in Chikmagaluru

Chikmagaluru, Karnataka, August 27, 2026: The Canon Law Society of Karnataka (CLSK) held its ninth annual conference and general body meeting at Spoorthi Sadan, Pastoral Centre, Chikmagaluru, on August 25 and 26, bringing together 24 members to reflect on the theme, “Salvation of Souls is the Supreme Law of the Church.”

The conference opened with prayer and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. In his welcome address, CLSK president Walter Oswald D’Mello thanked Bishop T. Anthony Swamy of Chikmagalur and the organisers for their support.

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Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Bishop Swamy said canon law must always be guided by the spirit of the Gospel. He cautioned that law without the spirit of the Gospel could lead to legalism, while spirit without law could result in confusion and disorder.

The bishop underlined the importance of canonical structures in safeguarding the voice, rights, dignity and freedom of the baptised, particularly those who are vulnerable. He described canonists as ministers of justice and mercy and urged them to uphold truth with courage, charity and pastoral sensitivity.

Referring to Canon 1752, he recalled the Church’s principle that the salvation of souls is the supreme law.

The second chief guest, Auxiliary Bishop Arokia Raj Satis Kumar of Bangalore, highlighted three important contributions of canon law conferences: strengthening the sense of belonging among canonists, creating opportunities to share experiences and learn from one another, and promoting renewal and continuing formation.

The academic sessions on the first day focused on pastoral care in tribunals, matrimonial consent, the briefer process and pastoral planning in a synodal Church. The sessions were led by Bishop Satis Kumar, T. Lourdusamy, Sunil Kumar D’Souza and Naveen Pinto.

Participants later took part in the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at St Joseph’s Cathedral in Chikmagalur, followed by a fellowship gathering.

The second day began with Holy Eucharist presided over by Walter Oswald D’Mello. Discussions during the academic sessions examined collaboration between dioceses and religious institutes, the Anointing of the Sick, and the canonical and civil implications of marriage and parentage, with particular attention to parish documentation.

The conference concluded with participants reflecting on contemporary pastoral and canonical challenges and reaffirming their commitment to serving the Church through the ministry of canon law.

By Catholic Connect Reporter