Church Leaders Urge United Christian Participation in Local Governance in Karnataka

Mysuru, March 2, 2026: With local body elections on the horizon, Church leaders and lay representatives from across the Mysore region gathered on March 1 at the Organisation for the Development of People in Mysuru to strengthen Christian engagement in grassroots governance.

The regional follow-up meeting of the Commission for Social Concern & Development focused on civic responsibility, ethical leadership, and coordinated participation in democratic processes. Parish representatives and members of diocesan commissions deliberated on structured planning, unity of purpose, and the moral responsibility of citizens in public life.

Coordinating the meeting, Fr. Arul Selva Kumar emphasised the need for collective discernment in identifying and preparing capable leaders from within the Christian community. He noted that meaningful participation in governance requires foresight, organisation, and sustained commitment at the parish level, with the Church fostering leadership rooted in service and social responsibility.

Fr. Tenny Kurian, Director of the hosting organisation, highlighted the importance of systematic preparation, documentation, and collaboration among parish bodies and diocesan structures. He underscored that a coordinated approach is essential to promote civic awareness and support emerging leaders.

Offering a broader social perspective, Mrs. Poornima of the Organisation for Social Change urged participants to remain informed and vigilant, stressing that democratic participation must be guided by ethical values and accountability. Mr. Gracian Rodrigues spoke on community mobilisation and the strategic use of social media to expand voter awareness and encourage responsible participation.

In his pastoral message, Francis Serrao, Bishop of the Diocese of Mysore, called on committed and capable Christians to contest elections at various levels, including Gram Panchayat, Taluk, District Panchayat, and Municipal bodies. He reminded participants that involvement in governance is an expression of responsibility toward society and nation-building.

The Bishop cautioned against internal divisions within the Christian community, noting that unity strengthens public witness. He also encouraged parishes to assist first-time voters—particularly youth—with voter registration and verification of electoral details, describing responsible voting as both a civic duty and a moral commitment.

The meeting concluded with a renewed resolve among participants to implement these directives at parish and deanery levels, promoting unity, voter awareness, and leadership inspired by Gospel values of integrity, justice, service, and peace.

By Catholic Connect Reporter