Archdiocese of Agra Hosts Seminar on Dei Verbum and Lumen Gentium

Agra, 3 April, 2025 – The Archdiocese of Agra held a seminar on 31 March, bringing together priests, religious sisters, and the faithful to reflect on Dei Verbum and Lumen Gentium, two key dogmatic constitutions of the Church. Most Rev. Dr. Ignatius D'Souza, Bishop of Bareilly, led the sessions, ensuring an accessible discussion by conducting the seminar in Hindi.

Archbishop Raphy Manjaly of Agra, officially inaugurated the seminar, held at St. Peter’s College Jubilee Hall. Rev. Fr. Dr. Maxim Santosh further introduced Bishop Ignatius D'Souza, highlighting his scholarly and pastoral contributions.

A symbolic enthronement of the Bible and the Vatican Council II documents reinforced the importance of Scripture and Church teachings. Bishop Ignatius D’Souza led three sessions, exploring the theological significance of Dei Verbum (The Word of God) and Lumen Gentium (The Light of the Nations), which shape the Church’s mission.

Promulgated on 18 November 1965, Dei Verbum focuses on Divine Revelation, affirming God’s communication through Scripture and Tradition. It encourages personal Scripture engagement, active liturgical participation, and evangelisation.

Issued on 21 November 1964, Lumen Gentium describes the Church as the People of God and calls all Christians to holiness. It urges lay participation in Church life, highlights the universal call to holiness, and promotes ecumenism and interfaith dialogue.

The event was meticulously organised under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Pasala Joseph Kumar, the Jubilee Coordinator of the Archdiocese. Rev. Fr. Jacob Palamattam served as the Master of Ceremonies.

This seminar provided a meaningful platform for theological reflection, inspiring clergy and laity to engage more deeply with Church teachings and live out their faith with renewed commitment.

Fr. Pasala Joseph Kumar

The Jubilee Coordinator

Agra Archdiocese