Diocese of Belgaum Conducts Training Seminar for Newly Formed Parish Councils

Dharwad, Karnataka, April 2, 2025 – The Commission for Laity of the Diocese of Belgaum organised a one-day training seminar for members of the newly formed Parish Pastoral Councils (PPCs) and Parish Finance Councils (PFCs) from the parishes of Hubballi-Dharwad, Haveri, and Bagalkot deaneries on March 23, 2025, at Sevalaya, Dharwad. The seminar, conducted in Kannada, aimed to equip members of these councils with essential knowledge and practical skills. Rev. Fr. Dr. T. Lourdusamy, Professor of Canon Law at St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute, served as the resource person for the seminar , while Most Rev. Derek Fernandes, Bishop of Belgaum, led interactive discussions and provided guidance. Approximately 180 participants attended the seminar, which focused on ‘Spiritual Discernment’ and ‘Conversation in the Spirit’.

During the input sessions, Fr Lourdusamy elaborated on the mission of the Church and the laity’s role in parish life. He systematically explained the statutes of PPCs and PFCs in the Diocese of Belgaum, ensuring clarity on their responsibilities and functions. Bishop Derek later conducted a question-and-answer session and complemented Fr Lourdusamy’s inputs with practical examples from his pastoral experience.

The highlight of the seminar was a demonstration of the ‘Conversation in the Spirit’. Bishop Derek led a small group for the demonstration. The topic chosen for discussion was: ‘How can the lay faithful co-operate in the pastoral ministry of the parish?’ The participants alternated between praying and expressing their inspired reflections.

After two rounds of praying and expressing their reflections, the conclusions of the group were listed. “Pastoral Care of the Youth”, “Fostering Unity in the Parish”, and “Bringing Lapsed Catholics Back to the Church” were the main areas in which the participants expressed their willingness to work. 

After lunch, the entire assembly were organised into groups of about 10 persons each, according to the parishes. With the help of a facilitator, who was one of those who participated in the demonstration with Bishop Derek, each group discussed one of the three conclusions of the previous session.

After working in groups for 45 minutes, the secretaries of each group presented the conclusions they had reached to the whole assembly. Bishop Derek interacted with each group and appreciated the contribution of the participants.

The seminar concluded with overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants, who appreciated the respectful and prayerful approach to discussions. Many expressed confidence that this method could enhance unity and cooperation within their parishes.

The day ended with the celebration of Sunday Mass, allowing those who had travelled from distant locations to partake in the Eucharist.

By Fr. Alwin Christopher George,

Secretary,

Commission for Social Communications,

Diocese of Belgaum