Mangalore diocese pastoral consultation, renewal of priestly vows and blessing of oils was held in the diocese on Thursday 26 March.
During the pastoral consultation held in the morning at Pastoral Institute, Bajjodi Very Rev Fr Stany D Souza Sj the provincial Karnataka Jesuit province gave his reflections on significance and relevance of the year of consecrated life highlighting the positive and negative sides of religious life. He critically analyzed the religious life in the light of the gospel and said the consecrated men and women must examine their life, understand the uniqueness of a religious and live up to the expectations of the church and thus the religious life becomes a happy choice of a total self giving.
After the input session the pastoral problems were discussed moderated by Fr Victor Machado the Director of Pastoral Institute.
Fr. Mathew Vas gave information about Priests Aid Fund, Fr. William Menezes about new home for retired priests and Fr Oswald Monteiro informed of forth coming caste based survey.
Bishop in his message appreciated the presence of priests for this consultation. He also briefed about the progress of Mangalore – Africa mission and urged the priests to support for the same.
In the afternoon session held at Cathedral Fr Joe Tauro OCD gave recollection which was followed by silent prayer, confession and Benediction. The day of diocesan priests was concluded with Chrism Mass concelebrated by the entire priests with the Bishop where the oils used for sacraments were consecrated. More than 186 priests participated in the consultation. Bishop welcomed the priests, Fr Stany Pereira compeered the program, Fr Rajesh Rosario conducted the mid day prayer.
