Kristhana Anukarane Sevege Prerane: On this theme, a Laity Convention for Pastoral Council Members of Bidar Deanery was organized on 5 and 6 August at Don Bosco Centre Chikpet Bidar. As part of the program, the Most Reverend Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi, and Bishop Robert Miranda, Bishop of Gulbarga Diocese, were present at the inauguration on Saturday, 5th of August. All the members of the congregation participated enthusiastically in the adoration ceremony that began with adoration. The six commission secretaries discussed their concerns and called upon everyone to reflect seriously on the matter. The main resource person at the conference was Most Rev Dr. Gerald Isac Lobo, who talked about the mind of the scriptures and the church’s teachings regarding the participation of the laity as God’s people. He appreciated our lay leaders. One of the resource persons, Mr. Stany Fernandes, spoke about the benefits available to minorities through the government. He also spoke about how to develop a strategy to take advantage of those benefits. There was a positive interaction between the leaders. Finally, a few questions were given for group discussion. Fr Santhosh Dias moderated the sessions. Finally, our bishop addressed and invited everyone to follow up on the decisions of the sessions and suggestions. Hence continuous training is a must. We need to cooperate and work to bring about a transformation among the lay leaders. There were 227 participants, including priests and Sisters. Bishop Gerald assured that in case training is required, he is ready to help. It was a wonderful program. We profusely thank all the fathers and sisters and lay persons who worked meticulously. Rev Fr James Paul SDB and Rev Fr Santhosh Dias organised whole event beautifully.
