Christian Unity Celebrated at All India Mission Seminary, Pilar

Pilar, January 22, 2025: The All India Mission Seminary, Pilar, organized a Prayer Meeting for Christian Unity on January 22, 2025, under the theme “Do you believe this?” (Jn. 11:27), as part of the ongoing Unity Octave Week, which runs from January 18-25, 2025.

Rev. David Livingstone of the Methodist Church, Panjim, read from the Scriptures and offered a reflection, which was followed by a hymn presented by St. Mary’s Syrian Orthodox Church, Raibandor. Rev. David, reflecting on the Word of God, emphasized the unifying power of Christ. "We may be divided, but Jesus Christ unites us," he affirmed. He expressed gratitude to the All India Mission Seminary for hosting the Ecumenical Fellowship, fostering such unity in diversity.

Fr. Norman Almeida, Rector of the All India Mission Seminary, warmly welcomed the gathering at the Ecumenical Fellowship, emphasizing the significance of the occasion as the global Church marks the 1700th Anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea, held in 325 AD. "Ecumenism is not an ideal but an essential calling for the realization of the Kingdom of God," he stated.

The event began with the lighting of the traditional lamp by Rev. David Livingstone (Key Speaker), Fr. Joseph Chako (St. Mary’s Syrian Orthodox Church), Fr. Anish John (St. Thomas Marthoma Syrian Church), Fr. Abraham Thomas (St. Mary’s Syrian Orthodox Church Ribander), Fr. Shanta Raj (Methodists Church), Dr. Sunil Thomas (Rupantaran Fellowship Church) and Fr. Norman Almeida Sfx (Rector, All India Mission Seminary)

St. Mary’s Syrian Orthodox Church, Vasco, led the congregation in prayer through a devotional dance, while St. Thomas Marthoma Syrian Church, Santacruz, performed a group song. A short skit based on the theme was presented by the Rupantaran Fellowship Church from Dabolim.

The prayer meeting also featured prayers of the faithful led by Fr. Shanta Raj of the Methodist Church, Merces, and Scholastic Robinson Pacheco Sfx . Ecumenical Prayer was led by Fr. John Bennet Sfx of All India Mission Seminary. Scholastics from the All India Mission Seminary, Pilar, presented a beautiful choral hymn led by Fr. Elvis Dias Sfx.

The Prayer Meeting for Christian Unity served as a powerful reminder of the shared faith that unites all Christians. Through prayer, reflection, music, and fellowship, the event exemplified the spirit of ecumenism and demonstrated the strength of Christian communities when they join in mutual support.

Scholastics Rajat Singh and Aston Carvalho anchored the prayer meet while Scholastic Shailesh Gavit concluded the event by thanking all those who contributed to the success of the gathering. As the Unity Octave Week continues, such gatherings serve as an inspiration to all, encouraging stronger and more unified Christian witnesses in the world.

By Br. Malvino OCD