Pastoral Formation Seminar Marks Jubilee Year of Hyderabad Archdiocese

Secunderabad, June 18, 2025 — As part of the Jubilee Year celebrations of the Archdiocese of Hyderabad, a Seminar on Pastoral Formation was held at the Archbishop’s House in Secunderabad. His Eminence Cardinal Poola Anthony presided over the event, which brought together religious parish priests, assistant parish priests, priests from other dioceses, and members of religious congregations. Archdiocesan priests ordained between 2014 and 2025, along with parish priests, also took part in this key initiative.

The programme began with a welcome by Msgr. Y. Balashowry, Vicar General, followed by a keynote address by Cardinal Poola Anthony. Fr. Y.M. Joseph opened the seminar by highlighting core pastoral concerns.

Speakers addressed a range of important topics: Fr. P. Vinay Kumar on Child Protection Policy; Fr. Devadas OFM on liturgy and ministry; Fr. M. Sundar on canonical perspectives; and Fr. Raju Alex on legal awareness. Sessions also included Fr. M. Anthony on social responsibility and project preparation, and Rev. Fr. S.K. Aloysius on integrating Scripture into ministry.

Fr. Jerome and team led an engaging session on youth formation, while the Family Apostolate Team spoke on family-centred ministry. Auditors shared parish accounting basics, and Fr. Victor Emmanuel T, Procurator and Chancellor, offered insights on administration and sacraments. The event ended with a Q&A session and fraternal lunch.

Cardinal Poola Anthony encouraged priests to implement the insights gained. The seminar was a meaningful contribution to the Jubilee Year, inspiring clergy with renewed dedication and hope.

By Sharon

Diocesan Youth Secretary