Churches of Mysore Unite to Strengthen Bonds of Christian Fellowship

Mysuru, October 30, 2025 — The spirit of Christian unity and collaboration was renewed as the United Christian Forum (UCF) – Mysore Unit held its ecumenical meeting on October 29, 2025, at Bishop’s House, Sanmaargi, Mysuru. The gathering marked an important milestone in the ongoing journey of dialogue and fraternity among various Christian denominations in the city.

The meeting began with words of welcome from Pastor Timothy John, UCF Coordinator, followed by an opening prayer led by Mohan Dass of the Pentecostal Village Ministries Church, invoking God’s blessings on the newly appointed Bishop of Mysore and the ecumenical mission of the Forum.

A warm and symbolic welcome was extended to Bishop Francis Serrao, SJ of Mysore, who was felicitated by representatives of different Christian communities with plants and bouquets—symbols of life, growth, and unity in Christ. Fr. John Sagaya Pushparaj, Ecumenical Secretary, introduced the Bishop, while Fr. Arul Selva Kumar, Diocesan Coordinator of Commissions, traced the journey of the UCF from its beginnings under Bishop Joseph Roy to its present vitality and growing role in fostering collaboration and mutual understanding among Christian traditions.

In his keynote address, Bishop Francis Serrao, SJ expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome and affirmed his commitment to continue building unity among all followers of Christ. Drawing upon the imagery of the plants presented to him, he said, “When we care for one another as we care for creation, God gives the growth.”

As Chairperson of the CCBI Commission for Ecumenism, Bishop Serrao emphasized the Church’s mission to nurture unity in diversity and encouraged all Christian denominations to work together for the spiritual and social uplift of society through education, healthcare, and compassionate service.

He proposed three guiding principles for ecumenical harmony:

Not to criticize or condemn other denominations;

To understand and appreciate one another; and

To promote unity in diversity.

The gathering also discussed preparations for the Annual Christmas Get-Together 2025, scheduled for December 11 at Infant Jesus Cathedral, Hinkal, to be hosted by the Syro-Malabar Church under the leadership of Fr. Thomas Thenattil, Vicar General of the Diocese of Mandya.

By Fr. Arul Selva Kumar