The Diocese of Chikmagalur convened its diocesan pastoral commissions meeting on December 3, 2024, to develop a comprehensive pastoral plan for the year 2025. The meeting, organized by the diocesan Coordinator, Rev. Fr. David Prakash, brought together the secretaries and joint-secretaries of all diocesan pastoral commissions.

The session began with a prayer led by Rev. Msgr. Elias Sequeira, invoking divine guidance. Rev. Fr. Charles Pereira, Chancellor and Procurator, extended a warm welcome to all participants, followed by the dignitaries lighting the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the light of Christ leading the diocese's mission.

Most Rev. Dr. T. Anthony Swamy, Bishop of Chikmagalur and Chairman of the diocesan pastoral commissions, addressed the gathering. He emphasized the importance of the commissions working collaboratively to fulfill the pastoral mission of the Church. His Excellency highlighted the need for a shared vision and inspired the participants to actively contribute to the diocesan pastoral plan, rooted in Gospel values and responsive to the needs of the faithful.

The resource person, Rev. Fr. Anil Joel Prasad, a priest from the Diocese of Gulbarga and Coordinator of the Karnataka Regional Pastoral Planning Commission (KRPPC), conducted an enlightening session. He explained the meaning, origin, history, and purpose of pastoral planning, drawing parallels from the life of Jesus. Fr. Anil began his talk with the thought-provoking insight: "Every miracle of Jesus had a problem at the beginning," illustrating how challenges can lead to opportunities for transformation and growth when approached with faith. Under his guidance, the secreatries and joint-secretaries from each diocesan pastoral commissions were given time to draft their respective pastoral plans for 2025. The secretaries of the commissions presented their plans to the assembly, fostering a spirit of collaboration and shared mission.

The Bishop concluded the session with a commissioning ceremony for the secretaries and joint-secretaries of the commissions. He invoked the words of Christ from St Luke 4:18

"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."

Rev. Fr. David Prakash delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the Bishop, resource person, clergy, and all attendees for their active participation. The meeting concluded with the Bishop's blessing, leaving the participants motivated and united in their mission.

Pope Francis


Rev. Dr. Thomasappa Anthony Swamy