Karnataka Regional Meeting Highlights Dialogue and Ecumenism as the Heart of the Church's Mission

Bengaluru, July 7, 2026: Emphasising that the Church's mission is best advanced through dialogue and ecumenical engagement, members of the Karnataka Regional Inter Religious Dialogue and Ecumenism Commissions met at Subodhana, the Karnataka Regional Pastoral Centre, to reflect on strengthening the Church's witness in a pluralistic society.

Addressing the gathering of Secretaries and Joint Secretaries of the regional commissions, Fr. Anthony Lawrence, President of St. Peter's Pontifical Institute, said the Church's mission must be carried forward through dialogue and ecumenical ministry. Stressing that "the Church is at the service of the Kingdom of God," he urged participants to recognise that mission remains the Church's foremost priority and that dialogue is an essential expression of its evangelising mission.

The meeting also marked a moment of celebration as the Chairman of the Commission felicitated Fr. Anthony Lawrence on the occasion of his sacerdotal silver jubilee, acknowledging his 25 years of priestly ministry.

During the deliberations, the Secretaries presented reports on the activities undertaken by their respective commissions, highlighting initiatives aimed at promoting interreligious harmony and ecumenical collaboration across the region.

Auxilary Bishop Joseph Susainathan of Bangalore, Chairman of the Karnataka Regional Inter Religious Dialogue and Ecumenism Commissions, offered guidance for strengthening the commissions' future initiatives and shared suggestions for enhancing their pastoral outreach. Fr. Anil Prasad, meanwhile, underscored the importance of the Regional Pastoral Plan and called for its committed and effective implementation at all levels.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to fostering dialogue, ecumenical cooperation and coordinated pastoral action in the service of the Church's mission. Fr. Vinay Kumar proposed the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all the participants for their active involvement and valuable contributions.

By Catholic Connect Reporter