Chamarajanagar Deanery Conducts Integrated Pastoral Formation Programme in Mysore Diocese

Chamarajanagar, Mysore, November 17, 2025 — Pastoral formation was organised by the diocese of Mysore at the Chamarajanagar deanery gathering at St Paul’s Church and St Joseph’s Convent (SMMI Sisters), uniting women leaders, parish representatives, youth, catechists, and clergy for a full day of coordinated training. The initiative was organised by the Women’s Commission, Minority Desk, Ecological Commission, and the Vocation and Faith Formation Commission under the guidance of Bishop Francis Serrao SJ.

Sr. Preethi DSS, Sr Prema SSS, Mrs Veena William, and Fr. Wilfred Anthony coordinated the programme, supported by the hospitality of the SMMI Sisters. Fr. Anthonappa, Dean of Chamarajanagar, led the opening prayer and welcomed the participants, stressing the importance of women's leadership, family spirituality, and ongoing parish renewal.

Fr. Arul Selva Kumar spoke on the mission of the Women’s Commission, affirming the role of women as anchors of family and parish life. Mrs Veena William outlined key minority welfare schemes—scholarships, financial support, housing assistance, and documentation processes—which drew significant interest. Sr Prema SSS reflected on Eucharistic spirituality as a source of strength, while Sr Preethi DSS highlighted the mother's role as the first catechist and everyday evangeliser within the home.

Participants engaged in group discussions, identified parish-specific challenges, and selected Women’s Cell leaders for 2025–2026. Parishes prepared action plans focusing on women’s faith formation, ecological initiatives, vocation promotion, and outreach to the sick, elderly, widows, and vulnerable families.

The programme marked a significant step in strengthening a faith-rooted, socially responsible, ecologically aware, and mission-oriented Catholic community in the Chamarajanagar Deanery.

By Fr. Arul Kumar