Bengaluru: The National Biblical, Catechetical, and Liturgical Centre (NBCLC) is currently hosting a significant six-day national seminar for deacons of the Catholic Church, themed “The Indian Church in the Synodal Context of India.” The seminar commenced on November 25, 2024, with an inaugural address by Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore, who underscored the essential role of priestly and pastoral ministry in the synodal mission of the Indian Church.
This event has attracted 92 deacons from 27 dioceses and five religious congregations, all of whom are preparing for ordination to the priesthood. The gathering exemplifies the Church’s commitment to inclusivity and collaboration through several key aspects:
National Representation: Participants are drawn from 11 states across India, including Meghalaya, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, and Jharkhand.
Inter-Ritual Participation: Deacons from the Latin, Syro-Malabar, and Syro-Malankara Churches are engaging together, fostering unity among diverse rituals.
Inter-Diocesan and Religious Collaboration: The seminar includes a diverse assembly of diocesan candidates and religious clergy, highlighting the importance of collaboration within the Church.
The primary objective of the seminar is to familiarize participants with the mission, activities, and institutional framework of the national Church. The inaugural session featured a prominent presentation by Rev. Dr. Cedric Prakash SJ, Director of Prashant in Ahmedabad. He addressed the socio-political challenges faced by the Catholic Church in India, emphasizing the need for a collective response to contemporary issues.
In addition to Archbishop Machado and Rev. Dr. Prakash, other distinguished speakers scheduled to contribute during the seminar include Mar Paul Kannookadan, Chairman of NBCLC; Bishop Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Makarios, Bishop of Puttur; Auxiliary Bishops Rt. Rev. Satish Kumar and Rt. Rev. Joseph Susainathan from Bangalore Archdiocese; Rev. Dr. T. V. Thomas, Director of SBM at Christ University; and Dr. Mareena Mathew, Head of the MBA Department at Christ University.
The seminar is coordinated by Rev. Dr. John Baptist, Director of NBCLC, alongside Rev. Dr. Nysson Luka, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching program for all participants. The event is designed not only to educate but also to inspire deacons as they prepare for their future roles within the Church.
As this seminar unfolds over its six-day span, it aims to foster dialogue among participants about their shared mission in a rapidly changing socio-political landscape in India. This initiative aligns with broader efforts within the Catholic Church to promote synodality—a process that encourages participation and engagement among all members of the Church community.
The seminar will conclude on November 30, 2024, marking an important milestone in the preparation of these deacons as they embark on their journey toward priesthood amid a dynamic ecclesiastical environment.
This gathering not only reflects the Church’s commitment to nurturing future leaders but also highlights its dedication to addressing contemporary challenges through collaborative efforts and shared experiences among diverse communities within India’s Catholic landscape