Gulbarga Diocese Hosts Laity Convention Ahead of Jubilee 2025

Bidar, Karnataka, August 3, 2025 – In preparation for the Jubilee Year 2025, the Diocese of Gulbarga organised a one-day Laity Convention at St Joseph’s Convention Hall, Bidar, on Saturday, under the theme “ಜೊತೆ ಜೊತೆಯಾಗಿ ಸೇರೋಣ, ಧರ್ಮಸಭೆಯನ್ನು ಬೆಳೆಸೋಣ” (Together, let us build the Church in communion and service).

The gathering brought together Parish Pastoral Council members, priests, and religious sisters from across the diocese, affirming the crucial role of the laity in shaping the life and mission of the Church.

The convention was inaugurated by the Bishop of Gulbarga, Most Rev. Dr Robert Miranda, who in his opening address highlighted the importance of lay participation. He encouraged the faithful to embrace leadership roles with a spirit of responsibility and missionary zeal.

Also present on the dais were Fr Santhosh Bapu (Vicar General), Fr Anil Prasad (Regional Laity Coordinator), Fr Richard Menezes (Retreat Preacher and Director of Dhyana Sadhana Holistic Spirituality Centre, Mysuru), Fr Clary D’Souza (Dean), Fr Lawrence Arun (Secretary of the Laity Commission), Mr Suresh Dotty (President, Catholic Association), and lay leaders Mr Sudheer and Mrs Benisha.

The programme began with a vibrant performance of the theme song, setting the tone for a day rooted in unity and shared mission. Fr Anil Prasad offered a powerful input based on the parables of the Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin, and the Prodigal Son. Using the metaphors of ಯೇಸುವಿನ ನೆರಳು, ಕೊರಳು, ಬೆರಳು (Jesus’ shadow, neck, and finger), he posed a compelling question: “Who is responsible when someone is lost?”—urging participants to reflect on their role in pastoral care.

Fr Richard Menezes, in his session, focused on serving the Church through the Corporal and Spiritual Acts of Mercy. He challenged the laity to evaluate their personal contribution to the Church’s mission, asking, “What can I do for the Church?”

Attendees then broke into parish-wise groups for discussion, presenting practical suggestions to enhance lay involvement. Bishop Miranda later summarised these reflections, affirming their insights and urging each parish to take forward the shared vision.

The day concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, during which Parish Vice Presidents publicly pledged their commitment to serve the Church with faith and integrity.

The convention marked a significant step in the diocesan journey toward Jubilee 2025, calling all faithful to walk together as true Pilgrims of Hope.

By Fr Roshan Dsouza

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