On Thursday, 25 July 2024, St Antony Ashram in Jeppu, Mangalore, buzzed with enthusiasm as 50 priests from the Diocese of Mangalore gathered for an enriching session titled “Preaching John 6: A Study and Discussion Session for Priests.” The event, held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Sombhrom Hall, was a resounding success, blending prayer, deep analysis, and lively discussion.
The session was led by Rev Dr Vincent Sequeira, Secretary of the Commission for Bible in the Diocese of Mangalore. The meticulous arrangements for the day were overseen by Rev Fr John Baptist Crasta, Director of St Antony Ashram, and his dedicated team.
The program kicked off with a warm welcome from Rev Dr Sequeira. Setting a reflective tone, the session began with Lectio Divina—a prayerful reading of John Chapter Six—performed as a roleplay by Rev Fr Antony Lobo, Rev Fr Joswin DSouza, Rev Fr Rajesh Rosario, and Rev Fr Johnson Pereira. This immersive experience was followed by a heartfelt prayer hymn and prayer, setting a serene and contemplative mood.
In the first session, Rev Dr Sequeira offered a compelling introduction to “Preaching John 6.” He provided an insightful overview of the Gospel of John, highlighting the pivotal role of Chapter 6 within the gospel.
Following a refreshing tea break, the attendees delved into a Narrative Analysis of John 6. Rev Dr Sequeira unpacked the various elements and intricate nuances of the passage, engaging the priests in thoughtful examination.
The subsequent session featured an exegetical explanation of the text, where deeper meanings and contexts were explored. This was followed by a lively discussion on the theological themes emerging from the analysis, sparking engaging conversations among the participants.
A group discussion segment on the topic also needs to be highlighted. The priests were divided into five groups, each tasked with exploring different aspects of John Chapter Six over the next five Sundays. These discussions culminated in brief presentations, fostering shared learning.
As the program drew to a close, the priests expressed their joy and satisfaction. They lauded the quality and depth of the session, voicing a collective desire for more biblically oriented programs in the future.
Fr Sequeira wrapped up the event with heartfelt thanks to all who participated and contributed. He extended special gratitude to Rev Fr John Baptist Crasta and his team for their impeccable arrangements, the Parish Priest Rev Dr J. B. Saldanha and the clergy of Bejai Church for their support, Fr Joseph Martis, Parish priest of Derebail Church for encouraging the Commission for Bible to hold such a programme, and Fr Johson Sequeira, Principal of Lourdes Central School Bejai, for sponsoring the notepads. He also acknowledged Mr Aaron John Nazareth, the Joint Secretary of the Commission for Bible, for his invaluable assistance.
The session concluded with grace before meals led by Rev Fr Victor D’Mello, followed by a group photo capturing the camaraderie and collective spirit of the day. A delightful lunch rounded off the event, leaving the priests fulfilled and eager for future sessions.
John 6 is read consecutively in the Church’s liturgical year from the Second to the Third week of Easter and the Seventeenth to the Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time in Year B. In 2024, we proclaim John 6 on Five Sundays: July 28 (Jn 6:1-15), August 04 (Jn 6:24-35 ), August 11 (Jn 6:41-51), August 18 (Jn 6:51-58 ), and August 25 (Jn 6:60-69). Hence, the programme “Preaching John 6” was seen as a fitting preparation for these Sundays. This programme, not only deepened the understanding of John 6 but also made it a memorable and inspiring day for all.
