Mysore Bishop Urges Children to Turn Christian Values into Action

MYSURU, October 28, 2026: Bishop Francis Serrao of Mysore has urged Catholic children to uphold human dignity, respect others and translate their faith into everyday actions, addressing 243 students at a faith formation camp organised by the Diocese of Mysore.

The one-day camp, UPAASANA, meaning “Sitting Near the Divine”, was held on October 26 at Nirmala School for students of Classes VIII–X from the Mysuru North and South deaneries. The diocesan Commission for Faith Formation organised the programme with the support of the CSST Sisters and the school team.

Addressing the participants, Bishop Serrao stressed that every person deserves equal dignity and respect, calling on the children to contribute to a society rooted in justice, peace and fraternity.

He outlined four stages of spiritual growth: Śravaṇa (listening), Manana (reflection), Nididhyāsana (internalisation) and Anuṣṭhāna (practice). He encouraged the children not to stop at hearing good teachings but to reflect on them, make them part of their lives and put them into practice.

Using the imagery of seeds and fruits, the bishop urged the children to cultivate love, kindness, honesty, prayer, discipline and respect, explaining that these values would shape their relationships and enable them to contribute positively to their families, the Church and society.

The camp combined faith formation with sessions on adolescent development, life skills, vocational discernment and child protection. Sr Lynette, CSST, led activities promoting friendship, teamwork and synodal participation, while Fr Cyril, SDB, spoke about developing a personal relationship with Jesus. Dr Anthony, principal of Chaya B.Ed. College, addressed life skills for adolescents.

Sr Anitha, CSST, guided the children in reflecting on vocational discernment, while Latha of the Child Welfare Committee, Chamarajanagar, addressed children's safety, rights and responsibilities. Fr Prasan, OCD, led a further session on faith, prayer and Christian living.

Priests and religious sisters also shared their vocation experiences, encouraging the participants to remain open to God's call.

The organisers acknowledged the contributions of Sr Beena, school headmistresses, teachers and staff, and CSST convents in Mysuru, whose cooperation and logistical support helped facilitate the camp.

The programme sought to help the children carry their learning beyond the camp by putting Christian values into practice in their daily lives.

By Fr. Arul Selva Kumar