Allahabad Diocese Hosts Seminar to Deepen Liturgical Understanding

Allahabad, 13 March 2025 – The Diocese of Allahabad hosted a one-day Seminar on Liturgy at Sadhana Sadan, Prayagraj, to deepen the clergy and religious’ understanding of liturgy as the heart of the Church. The event, held on March 12, was presided over by Most Rev. Louis Mascarenhas, Bishop of Allahabad, and featured Rev. Fr. Rudolph Raj Pinto OCD, Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Liturgy, as the keynote speaker.  

Bishop Mascarenhas urged participants to approach the liturgy with reverence, emphasising its role as a sacred encounter with Christ rather than a mere ritual. He highlighted its transformative power in fostering spiritual growth and unity within the Church.  

Rev. Fr. Pinto, speaking on the theme “Journeying towards a Synodal Church: Formation on Information,” underscored the centrality of liturgy in Church life and the need for continuous formation to ensure meaningful participation. He described the liturgy as a vital force for deepening faith and strengthening the Church’s mission.  

Fr. Reginald D'Souza, Vicar General of the Diocese, led the inaugural session and proclaimed the Word of God.  

The Holy Eucharist, presided over by Bishop Mascarenhas, reinforced the seminar’s message that the Eucharist is central to Christian life. Subsequent sessions explored theological and pastoral aspects of the liturgy, offering participants practical insights for implementation in their communities. A Q&A session addressed participants' concerns on various liturgical issues.  

Participants expressed gratitude for the enriching experience, sharing that it provided valuable insights to enhance their liturgical practices and inspired them to foster liturgical renewal in their ministries. The event was meticulously coordinated by Fr. Ronald Noronha, Diocesan Secretary for Liturgy.

The success of the seminar underscores the importance of continuous education and formation for clergy and religious, ensuring that the liturgy remains a vibrant and transformative aspect of Church life.

By Fr. Isidore D'Souza,

Chancellor, Allahabad Diocese