Christian Thought and Social Change in Focus at Mangaluru Symposium

MANGALURU, August 21, 2026: The role of Christian thought in advancing equality, justice and social transformation in India came under discussion at a national symposium held at St. Joseph’s Inter-diocesan Seminary, Jeppu, Mangaluru, on August 20.

The symposium on “Christian Thought in India: Context, Culture, and Social Transformation” was organised by the Chair in Christianity, Mangalore University, in collaboration with St. Joseph’s Inter-diocesan Seminary. It brought together academicians, researchers, theologians and students to examine the historical, cultural and socio-theological evolution of Christianity in India. The event also coincided with Konkani Manyatha Divas.

Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha of Mangalore presided over the inaugural session. Prof. Valerian Rodrigues, social scientist and former JNU professor; Dr. Preethi Dsouza, Head of the Konkani Adhyayana Peetha at Mangalore University; and Judith Mendonca, Syndicate member of the university, were among the chief guests.

Prof. Rodrigues highlighted the contribution of the Gospel and Indian thinkers such as Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar to social reform, democracy and anti-caste movements. He said biblical values of equality, fraternity, justice and liberty have strong parallels with the ideals of the Indian Constitution and called for sustained engagement with Christian thought in the Indian context.

Dr. Dsouza reflected on the Preamble to the Constitution and its emphasis on liberty, equality, fraternity and justice. She also drew parallels between democratic ideals and the participatory nature of Christian communities.

In his address, Bishop Saldanha urged Christians to confront social evils, particularly caste and gender discrimination. Referring to Pope Francis’ call for universal fraternity, he appealed for a shift from indifference to compassion, inclusion and encounter, saying that Bandhutva or universal brotherhood must become a lived social reality.

The keynote address was delivered by Fr. Praveen Martis SJ, Vice-Chancellor of St. Aloysius (Deemed to be) University, Mangaluru. He was felicitated on the occasion for being conferred the honorary rank of Colonel and appointed Colonel Commandant of the National Cadet Corps by the Government of India in July 2026. Sr. Janet AC of St. Agnes PU College read the citation.

Four technical sessions featured 10 research papers presented by scholars and faculty members from Mangalore University, St. Aloysius University, Roshni Nilaya, Karnataka Theological College and St. Joseph’s Institute of Theology. The presentations explored Christian leadership in social reform, digital culture, indigenous praxis, contextual biblical hermeneutics, and Christian contributions to education and healthcare.

The symposium also featured a cultural programme. Seminarians of St. Joseph’s Inter-diocesan Seminary presented Suranjalia, a musical performance directed by Fr. Flavian Rajkiran Lobo, followed by a Gumta folk music performance by Gumta Dhaiz, Arva, directed by Walter Crasta.

Br. Justin compered the inaugural programme, while Fr. Rajesh Melvin Rosario, Rector of St. Joseph’s Inter-diocesan Seminary, proposed the vote of thanks.

The symposium underscored the continuing relevance of Christian thought in India’s conversations on justice, equality, culture and human dignity.

By Catholic Connect Reporter