By Fr Steevan D'Sa
Bhadravathi, Mar 22: Our Lady of Vailankanni Church, Gandhinagar, organized a solemn Way of the Cross followed by an adult catechesis session led by Bishop Francis Serrao, the bishop of the diocese of Shimoga. The session focused on the significance of Lenten practices and the symbolism of numbers in the Bible.
Bishop Serrao emphasized the importance of the 40-day Lenten period, drawing parallels with biblical events, including Jesus’ 40 days in the desert. He explained the symbolic meaning of numbers in the Bible, highlighting that seven signifies completeness, while six represents incompleteness. Referencing the Wedding at Cana, he illustrated how Jesus transformed water in six stone jars into wine, presenting Himself as the seventh element of fulfillment and perfection.
The bishop further elaborated on the three pillars of Lent prayer, fasting, and almsgiving and reflected on Jesus’ three temptations in the desert, relating them to the spiritual challenges faced by Christians. Through the parable of Lazarus and the rich man and the crucifixion of the two thieves alongside Jesus, he underscored the choices that determine one’s path toward salvation.
Drawing connections to the Old Testament, bishop Serrao spoke of the two trees in Genesis the Tree of Knowledge and the Tree of Life and identified the Cross on Calvary as the new Tree of Life, offering redemption. He also highlighted the significance of Bethlehem, meaning ‘House of Bread’, as the birthplace of Jesus, the Bread of Life, who ultimately sacrificed Himself on the Cross.
As Holy Week approached, the bishop discussed the Triduum and the inclusive nature of the foot-washing ceremony on Maundy Thursday, encouraging participation from all, in alignment with Pope Francis’ call for inclusivity. He also explained the significance of the blessing of the three holy oils, which is performed exclusively by the bishop:
• Oil of Catechumens – used for those preparing for baptism,
• Oil of the Sick – for anointing the ill, and
• Holy Chrism – a sacred oil enriched with balsam, used in baptism, the consecration of new altars, church doors, the ordination of bishops, and the blessing of church bells.
Concluding the session, Bishop Serrao reflected on the concept of resurrection, distinguishing it from mere resuscitation or revival. He described it as a transformative passage to eternal life, the ultimate promise for every Christian.
Following the catechesis, Fr Steevan D’Sa, the parish priest, expressed gratitude to the bishop for his enlightening discourse. The evening continued with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, during which children, youth, and adults were awarded prizes for their contributions in designing the jubilee logo and mascot, as well as for their achievements in essay writing competitions.
A newly installed statue of St Joseph was blessed and inaugurated by the bishop, while Sr Wilma, Superior of the congregation, unveiled the donor name board for the Providence Presbytery. The event concluded with the community receiving abundant blessings, making it a spiritually enriching and memorable occasion.