Media Release
Mangaluru, Dec 13: The Commission for Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) of the Holy Trinity Capuchin Province of Karnataka organised its second seminar on the theme “Raising hope for climate justice” on December 13 at St Ann’s Friary, Mangaluru.
Fr Paul Melwyn D’Souza, the vicar provincial, was present along with the friars of the province, students from various stages of Capuchin formation, and members of the Conference of Religious India (CRI), Mangalore zone.
The seminar commenced with a prayer service, followed by a warm welcome by Fr Anthony Raj, chairperson of JPIC.
The keynote address was delivered by Fr Adarsh OFM, JPIC member of the OFM. In his address, he reflected on the Canticle of the Creatures by St Francis of Assisi, marking the 800th anniversary of its composition. He emphasized the need for a profound attitudinal change towards creation, inspired by the Franciscan vision of harmony with nature.
The first session was presented by Benedict Fernandes, a retired assistant commissioner of GST. He shared concrete, rights-based initiatives undertaken by him and his team in and around the Mangaluru region to safeguard the environment and ensure the effective implementation of environmental laws in Karnataka. He strongly urged participants to become informed and responsible citizens.
The second speaker, Vidya Dinkar, a distinguished social activist from Mangaluru, delivered a thought-provoking and incisive analysis of the contemporary environmental crisis. Drawing from lived realities and grassroots engagement, she exposed the deep-rooted causes of ecological degradation and their far-reaching social consequences.
Her address underscored the moral and civic imperative of collective responsibility, urging individuals, institutions, and communities to move beyond apathy toward conscious action. She passionately called for a renewed commitment to sustainable practices, environmental stewardship, and advocacy, emphasizing that safeguarding creation is not merely an option but an urgent obligation for the present and future generations.
The seminar concluded with group discussions animated by Fr Sathish Fernandes, during which participants shared practical suggestions on how individuals and communities can take small yet meaningful steps toward environmental protection and nurturing hope in the face of climate change.
Fr Vinod Mascarenhas introduced the speakers, Fr Rohan Lobo anchored the seminar, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Fr Sunil D’Souza.