Verghese V Joseph –
Bengaluru: In a recent development, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CCBI) has named Fr. Dominic Pinto, a 42-year-old priest from the Lucknow diocese, as the new associate executive secretary to the CCBI Commission for Youth. This decision was reached during the 94th Executive Committee meeting of the CCBI, held in Bangalore from 7th to 8th May 2024. Fr. Dominic currently holds the position of regional director of the Youth Commission within the Agra Regional Bishops’ Council.
Fr. Dominic Pinto’s journey towards priesthood began in Bajpe, Karnataka, where he was born on 13th August 1982. He received his early education at Parochial Higher Primary School and St. Joseph’s High School in his hometown. His formal training in theology and philosophy took place at St. Paul’s Minor Seminary in Lucknow and St. Charles Seminary in Nagpur, respectively. Ordained as a priest on 20th October 2013, he has since served in various capacities within the Church, including roles as assistant parish priest, vice principal, and vice rector at different institutions.
During his tenure as director of diocesan youth ministry from 2014 to 2018, Fr. Dominic spearheaded innovative initiatives and outreach programmes, demonstrating a commitment to youth engagement and spiritual growth. His recent role as regional youth director has seen him actively involved in fostering holistic development among youth communities, collaborating closely with the CCBI Youth Commission in various programmes.
Sr. Jenifer Prafulla D’Souza Named Coordinator of the Health Apostolate
In another significant announcement, the CCBI has appointed Sr. Jenifer Prafulla D’Souza, a 49-year-old member of the Sisters of the Mercy of Holy Cross, mid India province, as the new coordinator of the Health Apostolate. This decision was made during the same 94th executive committee meeting in Bangalore.
Sr. Jenifer, born on December 4, 1974, has a strong academic background in nursing, holding an M.Sc. in Nursing from Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, and a B.Sc. in Nursing from Rajiv Gandhi Health Science University, Bangalore. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Nursing from Shree Venkateshwara University, U.P., since 2018, Sr. Jenifer brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her new role.
Her appointment as Coordinator of the Health Apostolate underscores the CCBI’s commitment to promoting healthcare initiatives within the Church. With her academic qualifications and dedication to the field of nursing, Sr. Jenifer is poised to make a significant impact in advancing health-related programs and services under the CCBI’s purview.