Seminar on Liturgy organized in Shimoga, Karnataka

Shimoga, Karnataka, 27 August 2025: A seminar on “Fidelity to the Liturgical Norms in Christian Liturgy” was held in the Diocese of Shimoga, bringing together religious and clergy for two days of reflection and formation. The event was organised by the Diocesan Commission for Liturgy, with sessions for religious sisters on 24 August and diocesan priests on 25 August.

The resource person was Dr. Antony Dias, professor of Liturgy at St. Peter’s Pontifical Seminary, Bengaluru. The programme opened with words of welcome from Bishop Francis Serrao SJ of Shimoga, followed by an introduction of the speaker by Fr. Nelson D’Souza, diocesan director for Liturgy.

In his opening session, Dr Dias underlined that the Holy Mass is not a mere drama or enactment but the very source of spiritual nourishment. He reminded participants that the Liturgy is not “anyone’s private property” and stressed that preserving the Church’s tradition requires fidelity to its prescribed norms and rubrics, rather than adapting them to personal preferences.

The second session provided an in-depth explanation of the four principal parts of the Holy Mass: the Introductory Rites, the Liturgy of the Word, the Liturgy of the Eucharist (Communion), and the Concluding Rites. Dr. Dias highlighted the theological and spiritual meaning of each, helping participants to deepen their understanding of their role in worship.

The third session addressed common liturgical aberrations observed in parish celebrations. Dr. Dias called on both priests and religious to remain attentive to these pitfalls and to ensure the Eucharist is celebrated in a dignified and worthy manner.

The seminar concluded with a renewed sense of commitment among participants to foster reverence and fidelity in liturgical celebrations. Around 50 sisters took part in the first day’s sessions, while another 50 priests attended the second day.

The diocesan organisers described the seminar as an important step in strengthening the liturgical life of the local Church, ensuring that worship remains both faithful to tradition and spiritually enriching for the faithful.

By Fr. Franklin D'Souza

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