News: Jessie Rodrigues
Daijiworld Media Network – Bangalore (SB)
Bangalore, Nov 5: To mark the Year of Priests, NBCLC conducted a three-week-seminar called ‘Pastoral Renewal Course’ on the renewal of the vocation for priests for the first time in the history of the centre as declared by Pope Benedict the VI here on Monday November 2.
Over 50 priests from all over India participated in the seminar. Dr Bernard Moras, archbishop of Bangalore presided over the Holy mass at 7 am at the centre. Fr Moras in his homily gave a piece of advice to all the priests to be a role model to the people by spreading the message of love, brotherhood and harmony.
If we are enjoying our vocation, we not only will remain faithful, but also will definitely encourage priesthood, which are the Picas of Jesus, he said. St Francis of Assisi felt that he was unworthy to be a priest hence he remained as a deacon spreading the good news, he added.
Fr Cleophas, director of NBCLC, on the concluding day, in his address shared his thoughts stating we priests need inner strength and spiritual guardness from God as well as tremendous amount of insight like St Jean Marie Vianney who is the model and mentor of priests to have dedication to the vocation. St Jean was simple but very effective pastor who was successful in transforming the people with his practical approach, he added.
Pope Benedict says ‘Priests have great challenge as they are the useful servants and happy to offer their poor contribution’, said Fr Cleo concluding with inviting for suggestions from the participants and requesting everyone to measure their achievements as priests like the light in the woods & be joyful always.
Nrityavani presented two dance performances, NBCLC choir led by Sr Sylvia was melodious as usual and Sr Basil compered the programme.