Media Release

Mangaluru, Oct 26: All Karnataka United Christian Forum for Human Rights (western zone) in association with St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary, Jeppu organized a joint ecumenical symposium on the topic 'Jesus the Missionary' on Friday October 25 at the Centenary Memorial Hall. More than 150 participants from different Christian churches from Mangaluru participated in this unique and special event.

After a time of fellowship and refreshments, the seminary choir led the gathering into a time of prayer, after which Fr Clifford Fernandes the convener of the programme welcomed the gathering and introduced the speakers. Sandeep Theophile, researcher, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa and PRO, KACES, KTC, Mangaluru, delivered the first lecture on the topic, 'Mission makes the Church'. In his thought provoking address, Fr Sandeep, reminded the gathering the church needs to have a paradigm shift in thought and focus on people development. He raised the need of the church to be missionary and at the same time rooted in Christ. The choir from the Shanti CSI Church, Balmatta, rendered their melodious voice for a Kannada hymn. Bishop Jesuprasad, the bishop of Believer’s Church, then delivered is meaningful and inspirational lecture on the topic 'Missionary Activities and Challenges Today'. The bishop warned that complacency and comfort lifestyle are the dangers that have made the church forget the mission given by Christ. With many such thoughts, the bishop culminated his address by throwing light on the areas where the church could make progress in its own growth.

Sr Cecilia Mendonca BS, provincial, Bethany Sisters Mangaluru province, then moderated the session for discussion and clarification. Many expressed their appreciation for both the sessions of the day and after a few clarifications the moderator, Sr Cecilia concluded the session by expressing the need of the Church and its leaders to be authentic, spiritual, real and holy. The vote of thanks was proposed by Alfred Manohar, secretary, All Karnataka United Christian Forum for Human Rights (western zone). Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangaluru diocese, Catholic Church, then delivered the presidential address.

He envisaged the necessity for all to take a step and face the challenges that the church faces with courage and humility. He also congratulated all those who worked behind the success of the programme.

Bishop Peter Paul then gave the final blessing. Br Suraj Lobo, student of Theology, St Joseph Seminary, was the compere of the day.