Priests of Mangalore Diocese Converge for Pastoral Consultation 2025

MANGALORE, 14 APRIL, 2025: Over 225 diocesan and religious priests serving across the Diocese of Mangalore gathered for the annual Pastoral Consultation held on April 9 and 10 at St. Antony’s Charity Institutes, Jeppu. The two-day gathering, centered on communion and collaboration, allowed the clergy to address pressing pastoral concerns and deliberate on the mission of the Church.

The event was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, who emphasised the importance of unity in mission. In his inaugural address, Bishop Saldanha said, “This gathering is a celebration of coming together of priests who have a shared mission of the Church. It is a day to meet and greet every priest of the diocese, share experiences, and address pastoral challenges.”

The consultation, which focused on the theme ‘Pastoral Issues,’ saw multiple sessions covering various pastoral topics raised by the deaneries of the diocese. The first day began with prayer by Fr. Walter D’Mello and was followed by discussions on the Family Apostolate, led by Fr. Victor D’Mello, Fr. Alwyn D’Souza, and Fr. Santhosh Rodrigues. 

Other sessions addressed Children and Adult Catechesis, Youth Ministry, and the Small Christian Community Apostolate, with valuable insights shared by Fr. Vijay Machado, Fr. Harry D’Souza, Fr. Ashwin Cardoza, and Fr. Sunil George D’Souza.

The second day featured discussions on property and finance matters led by Fr. Maxim Rosario and Fr. Jagadish Pinto, addressing practical administration and resource management. Msgr. Maxim Noronha, Vicar General, led a session on other pressing pastoral issues. The consultation also included meetings of the Parish Union and Priest Aid Fund (PAF), focusing on updates related to the welfare of parishes and priests.

In addition to the consultations, Fr. Andrew Lewis was felicitated on his Golden Jubilee of priestly ordination, while Fr. Michael Santhumayor was honoured on his 60th birthday. A book of spiritual reflections by Fr. Basil Vas was also released.

The event was coordinated by Fr. Joseph Martis, with documentation by Fr. Kenneth Crasta, Fr. Vishal Monis, and Fr. Jason Monis. Local arrangements were managed by Fr. J.B. Crasta. The 2025 Pastoral Consultation provided a meaningful occasion for reflection and renewal, reaffirming the clergy’s commitment to their pastoral mission.

By Fr. Anil Fernandes