Diocese of Gulbarga Holds Formation Programmes for Catechism Teachers in Kalaburagi, Bidar Deaneries

KALABURAGI/BIDAR, Karnataka, June 23, 2025: The Commission for Faith Formation of the Diocese of Gulbarga conducted formation programmes for catechism teachers and youth animators from the Kalaburagi and Bidar Deaneries of the diocese on the 21st and 22nd of June 2025, respectively. The programme for members of the Kalaburagi Deanery was held at Mother of Divine Grace Cathedral, Kalaburagi, while the session for participants from the Bidar Deanery took place at Infant Jesus Shrine, Bhalki.

Both programmes were led by Rev. Fr. Vijay Machado, Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Faith Formation, Goa. The sessions aimed to deepen the spiritual grounding and enhance the pastoral skills of those involved in catechetical ministry within the two deaneries.

The programme for the Kalaburagi Deanery, held on 21st June, commenced with an opening prayer and a welcome address, setting a reflective and purposeful tone for the day. Fr. Vijay Machado then led a series of engaging and insightful sessions, aimed at deepening the participants’ understanding and commitment to faith formation.

The sessions conducted during the programme included “Synodal Approach in Catechesis”, “Dialogical Methodology”, and a YOUCAT Training of Trainers session.

The session for the Bidar Deanery, held on 22nd June, also began with an opening prayer and a welcome address. Fr. Vijay Machado then led a series of engaging and insightful sessions. 

The first session, titled “Mission Catechesis – Need & Vision”, explored the evolving role of catechists in the contemporary Church. This was followed by a session on “Personal Faith Transmission”, which highlighted the importance of authentic personal witness in passing on the faith.

In the third session, “Catechism in a New Faith Context”, Fr. Machado addressed modern challenges in catechesis and the importance of adapting teaching methods to suit today’s socio-cultural realities.

The highlight of the day was the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, which provided spiritual nourishment to all participants.

Following lunch, the fourth session, titled “YOUCAT for PUC and Degree Students”, introduced the Youth Catechism as a dynamic and accessible resource for engaging young people in matters of faith. 

Towards the end of the programme, Most Rev. Robert Miranda, the Bishop of Gulbarga, delivered an inspiring address, encouraging all participants to carry forward their ministry with dedication, enthusiasm, and creativity.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks, followed by a special meeting for Missionary Childhood Association (MCA) animators.

The programmes in both deaneries of the diocese were well-received, with 40 participants attending in Bhalki and 26 in Kalaburagi. These sessions marked a significant step toward revitalising catechetical and youth ministry efforts across the Diocese of Gulbarga.

By Fr. Roshan D'Souza