Mangalore Diocesan Priests Renew Synodal Spirit at Ongoing Formation

Mangalore, August 21, 2025: More than 200 priests from across the Diocese of Mangalore gathered at Shanthi Kiran Pastoral Institute on 19 and 20 August for a two-day Ongoing Formation Programme that emphasised the spirit of synodality, pastoral renewal, and the Church’s engagement with contemporary challenges. Convened and coordinated by Fr. Santhosh Rodrigues, Director of Shanthi Kiran Pastoral Institute, the programme integrated theological reflection, spiritual conversation, and practical updates to strengthen clergy in their mission within today’s social and ecclesial contexts.

Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha of Mangalore, introducing the resource persons, underlined the higher purpose of the Synod on Synodality and urged priests to embody its principles in their pastoral ministry. He said, “The Synod on Synodality is not just a study, but a call to live communion, participation, and mission in every parish and pastoral role.”

Fr. Christopher Vimalraj, Associate Deputy of the CCBI, Bangalore, offered a theological and pastoral framework for synodality. Drawing insights from the 36th CCBI Plenary Assembly in Bhubaneswar, he highlighted the significance of spiritual conversations, collaborative leadership, and inclusive decision-making as pathways to missionary renewal.

Fr. Anil Crasta of the Gulbarga Diocese, Associate Director of CARITAS INDIA and Deputy Secretary of the Social Development Commission under the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), explained recent amendments in tax laws and compliance requirements for religious trusts and charitable societies. He remarked, “Religious trusts and societies must stay compliant with the latest tax laws—responsible stewardship is itself a form of witness to the Gospel.”

Addressing communications, Fr. Anil Ivan Fernandes, Diocesan Secretary for Social Communication, introduced the Catholic Connect initiative, encouraging parishes to adopt the digital platform. Parish kits with credentials and communication material were distributed to all priests. He noted, “Catholic Connect is a powerful digital bridge for our parishes—enabling priests and faithful to stay connected and communicate effectively.”

Fr. Praveen Leo Lasrado, Secretary of the Catholic Board of Education, briefed the clergy on welfare programmes available through the Karnataka Minority Department for education, self-employment, and overseas studies. He stated, “The schemes available for minorities open doors to education, self-employment, and overseas opportunities. Our faithful must be empowered to make use of them.”

The two-day programme fostered fraternity, reflection, and discernment among the clergy. It reinforced their commitment to synodal spirituality and prepared them to serve their communities with renewed vision and practical readiness.

By Fr. Anil Fernandes

Canara Communication Centre, Mangalore

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