- 22 August, 2025
Mysore, August 22, 2025 – The Diocesan Health Commission of Mysore convened a special meeting at the Conference Hall of St. Joseph’s Hospital, Bannimantap, focusing on renewing and strengthening the Church’s mission of healing in the context of the Jubilee Year 2025. The gathering brought together 55 delegates, including priests, religious sisters, doctors, nurses, hospital administrators, and social workers, to discuss inclusive and compassionate care for the sick, elderly, differently abled, and children with special needs.
Msgr. Alfred John Mendonca, in his keynote, highlighted Jubilee 2025 as a call for the Church to embody Christ’s healing presence. He emphasised holistic care that restores dignity, offers spiritual support, and creates welcoming spaces for all. He identified priority areas including health and pastoral support for the elderly, inclusion and support for children with special needs, and pastoral and spiritual care within Catholic health institutions.
Fr. Thomas Roxan Baros outlined the Regional Health Commission’s vision, stressing diocesan collaboration for integrated healthcare outreach. Fr. Arul Selva Kumar shared the pastoral vision of “enlarging the tent”, encouraging partnerships between hospitals, homes for the aged, special education institutions, and parish health cells. Sr. Anna Mary, SMMI, presented the current status of the diocesan health ministry, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for coordinated care.
Delegates engaged in group discussions, recommending measures to enhance healthcare access for the elderly and home-bound, strengthen Catholic health institutions with shared resources, integrate pastoral and spiritual care into hospitals and dispensaries, create awareness about healthcare and disability rights, and involve parish youth and catechism children in health-related outreach. These recommendations were consolidated into a Jubilee Action Plan for the Health Commission.
The meeting concluded with a fellowship meal and expressions of gratitude. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to Christ’s healing mission, pledging to serve with compassion, dignity, and professionalism. Reflecting on the Gospel, “I was sick and you visited me…” (Matthew 25:36), the Health Commission of the Diocese of Mysore affirmed its dedication to advancing Christ’s healing mission during the Jubilee Year 2025 and beyond.
By Fr. Arul Selva Kumar
Diocesan Commissions Coordinator,
Mysore
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