Mysore Diocese Launches Certificate Course on Bible and Liturgy for Laity

Mysore, January 18, 2026: In a meaningful initiative to deepen biblical and liturgical understanding among the laity, the Mysore Diocesan Service of Communion (MDSC) organised a Certificate Course on Bible and Liturgy at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Catholic Centre, Bannimantap. The programme is conducted under the patronage, guidance, and blessing of Fr. Francis Serrao, SJ, Bishop of Mysore.

Designed as a one-year formation programme, the course spans 12 months with sessions held on the third Sunday of every month from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. The medium of instruction is Kannada, enabling participants to engage more deeply and meaningfully with Sacred Scripture and the liturgy of the Church.

The course is guided by experienced resource persons, Rev. Fr. Joseph Marie, Secretary of the Diocesan Bible and Liturgy Commission, and Rev. Fr. Vijay Raj Jaunet, Secretary of the Karnataka Regional Bible Commission (KROSS), Bengaluru. Drawing from their theological expertise and pastoral experience, they accompany participants in developing a systematic and practical understanding of the Bible and the liturgical life of the Church.

The course was formally inaugurated on January 18 with a prayer service and the lighting of the lamp, symbolising the light of the Word of God and the living tradition of the Church. The inaugural programme was attended by Fr. Joseph Marie, Fr. Vijay Raj Jaunet, Fr. Maria Xavier, Spiritual Director of the Mysore Diocesan Service of Communion and Youth Director of the Diocese, and Mr. Jagdish Paul, Coordinator of MDSC, Mysore.

Delivering the keynote address, Fr. Maria Xavier highlighted that Sacred Scripture and Tradition are the two foundational pillars of the Catholic Church. He stressed the importance of a correct understanding of the Bible and a deeper appreciation of the liturgy, noting that informed and active participation in the liturgy leads to a renewed experience of faith and a stronger Christian witness.

Around 140 lay faithful, from both within and outside the Mysore Diocese, enrolled in the course, reflecting a strong desire to grow in faith and to participate more actively in the life of the Church.

The Certificate Course on Bible and Liturgy thus stands as a significant pastoral initiative of the Mysore Diocesan Service of Communion, aimed at nurturing informed, committed, and liturgically engaged lay leaders for the mission of the Church.

By Catholic Connect News Reporter