Catechetical Faith Formation Seminar Empowers 125 Participants in Allahabad Diocese

Prayagraj, February 5, 2025: A two-day Catechetical Faith Formation Seminar took place from January 22–23 at Sadhna Sadan, Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Prayagraj. Organized for parish priests, sisters, and catechism teachers of the Allahabad Diocese, the seminar gathered 125 participants to train them in innovative catechetical teaching methods and deepen their understanding of key Church documents.

The seminar began with a Bible procession and lamp-lighting ceremony, followed by a welcome address by Fr. Anil Michael. In his keynote address, Rev. Louis Mascarenhas, Bishop of Allahabad Diocese, emphasized the importance of catechetical faith formation in the diocese.

Rev. Fr. Babu Chirayath from Udaipur Diocese delivered the sessions for the seminar. In his talks, he focused on topics such as engaging teaching methods, sustaining student interest, and key catechetical documents, including the General Directory on Catechetics, Ad Gentes, Catechesi Tradendae, and Catechism of the Catholic Church. He also highlighted the significance of Vatican II documents—Sacrosanctum Concilium, Dei Verbum, Lumen Gentium, and Gaudium et Spes—and Pope Francis’ call to study them during the jubilee year.

The first day concluded with the Holy Rosary and dinner. The second day began with Holy Mass, followed by sessions explaining catechetical terminologies and structured teaching methods. Fr. Babu stressed the importance of well-structured catechism books for effective learning.

The seminar concluded with a felicitation ceremony and a vote of thanks by Fr. Anil Michael. Participants expressed gratitude to Bishop Louis Mascarenhas for organizing the event and to Fr. Babu Chirayath for his insightful sessions. The program concluded in the afternoon as attendees departed for their respective places, enriched with a renewed commitment to catechetical instruction.