Diocese of Mysore Organises Orientation Programme to Strengthen Catechetical Ministry

Mysore, May 26, 2026: Faith formation and catechetical ministry were given renewed focus in the Diocese of Mysore as priests, religious, catechism teachers, school representatives and lay faithful gathered at the Catholic Centre in Mysuru on May 25 for the Orientation Programme for Parish and School Catechism Coordinators and Missionary Childhood Association (MCA) Animators.

The programme, organised by the Faith Formation Commission/Catechetical Commission as part of the Year of Faith 2026 celebrations, sought to renew and strengthen catechetical ministry across parishes, schools and Sunday catechism centres in the diocese.

In the inaugural session, Bishop Francis Serrao SJ of Mysore

underlined the central role of Sacred Scripture in catechism and faith formation. Stressing that the Holy Bible remains the foundation of Christian life, the Bishop encouraged catechism teachers to help children and youth encounter Jesus Christ through the Word of God. He also reflected on the historical formation of the Bible and urged participants to place Scripture at the heart of their ministry.

Practical aspects of catechetical teaching were also highlighted during the programme. Fr. Alvine Stanislaus conducted a session on creative and interactive methods of teaching catechism, encouraging participants to make faith formation classes spiritually enriching, meaningful and engaging for young learners.

Missionary formation formed another major focus of the orientation. A session on the Pontifical Mission Associations, with special emphasis on the Missionary Childhood Association, called on participants to foster missionary awareness among children through prayer, sacrifice and concern for the universal Church. The session emphasised the importance of forming young missionaries who can become witnesses of Christ in families, schools and society.

Another key session on YOUCAT and catechetical formation was led by Fr. Maria Xavier, who presented YOUCAT as an effective and accessible tool for communicating the Catholic faith to children and youth in a simple and engaging manner. Participants were encouraged to present Church teachings in practical and relatable ways.

Fr. Arul Selva Kumar presented the diocesan Year Plan for Faith Formation in schools and Sunday catechism centres for the Year of Faith 2026. The presentation outlined various programmes, examinations, celebrations and formation initiatives planned for the year while highlighting the shared responsibility of parents, teachers, priests, religious and lay leaders in handing on the faith to younger generations.

The diocese also encouraged parishes and institutions to appoint trained coordinators and animators to effectively organise and guide faith formation activities at the local level.

Serving as a platform for learning, collaboration and renewal, the orientation programme reaffirmed the Diocese of Mysore’s commitment to strengthening catechetical ministry and nurturing committed disciples of Christ during the Year of Faith 2026.

By Catholic Connect Reporter