Interfaculty Seminar in Bangalore Focuses on Church Mission

Bangalore, November 23, 2024: The Interfaculty Seminar 2024, jointly organized by the Institute of Oriental Canon Law (IOCL), DVK, and the Centre of Canon Law Studies (CCLS), St Peter’s Pontifical Institute, took place on 21 November at the Library Conference Hall of St Peter’s Pontifical Institute, Bangalore. The seminar explored the themes of Praedicate Evangelium, focusing on its pastoral and canonical dimensions. 

The event commenced with an inauguration held in the presence of the chief guest, Most Rev. Dr. Arokiaraj Satis Kumar, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bangalore, Rev. Dr. A. Lawrence, President, St Peter’s Pontifical Institute, Rev. Dr Sebastian Payyappilly, CMI, Director, IOCL, DVK and Rev. Dr I. Amalraj, Director, Centre of Canon Law Studies.

Rev. Dr. A. Lawrence in his inaugural address, emphasized the Church's mission-oriented renewal, drawing insights from Pope Francis’ Evangelii Gaudium and Praedicate Evangelium. He commended Rev. Dr. I. Amalraj, Director of CCLS, for organizing the event in collaboration with CCLS and IOCL staff and students.

Rev. Dr. Sebastian Payyappilly highlighted the significance of this annual seminar series, which has continued for 22 years. He announced the upcoming silver jubilee celebrations of IOCL in January 2025. Most Rev. Dr. Arokiaraj Satis Kumar, reflected on the pastoral aspects of Praedicate Evangelium, emphasizing the need to bridge canonical directives with practical pastoral applications.

Rev. Dr. Sunil Kumar D’Souza moderated the first session on Chapters I-V of Praedicate Evangelium. Rev. Fr. Arun Raj from II year LCL presented the paper, with Sr. Deepika Ekka from IOCL providing a critical response. A video presentation on Praedicate Evangelium followed, underscoring its relevance to the Church’s mission.

Rev. Dr. Alex Velacherry, moderated the second session on Chapters VI-XI of the document. Rev. Fr. Thomas Louis from IOCL presented the paper, while Rev. Fr. Vincent Selvaraj from II year LCL offered his analysis.

The event concluded with a panel discussion, led by Rev. Dr. T. Lourdusamy with the presence of the above-mentioned professors and Rev. Dr Merlin Rengith Ambrose and Rev. Dr Joseph Anthony from CCLS and Rev. Dr Benny Tharakunnel, CMI from IOCL, which provided an interactive platform for participants to address questions and clarify doubts.

By Fr Stephen D’Souza