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Shivamogga, October 11, 2024 : The Diocesan Pastoral Council (DPC) convened a meeting on October 11th at the Diocesan Pastoral Renewal Centre, Sannidhi, Shivamogga, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Attendees gathered at Sannidhi at 9:30 a.m., where the program was led by the Director of the Laity Commission, Rev. Fr. Steven D'Sa, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Velanganni Church, Old Town, Bhadravati.

The opening prayer was led by Rev. Fr. Franklin D'Souza, Diocesan Youth Director, who invoked divine guidance for the meeting's success. Subsequently, Rev. Fr. Alphonse Nelson D'Souza, HM of Loyola English Medium High School, Shivamogga, extended a warm welcome to the President, Most Rev. Dr. Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of the Diocese of Shimoga, Msgr. Very Rev. Fr. Stany D'Souza, Rector of the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga, and all those present for the DPC meeting.

Bishop Francis Serrao SJ formally announced the appointments of Mr. Anthony Wilson from Immaculate Conception Church, Newtown, Bhadravati, as DPC Secretary, and Mrs. Lizzy from Good Shepherd Church, Gopala, Shivamogga, as Joint Secretary of the DPC.

Bishop Francis Serrao SJ then proceeded to outline the rules and regulations governing the DPC.

Subsequently, in accordance with the DPC regulations, two members were chosen by the assembled members. Mr. Arokiaswamy of Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga, and Ms. Josephine of Holy Family Church, Chitradurga, were unanimously elected by the DPC members.

Bishop Francis Serrao SJ provided spiritual insight into the topic of "Why are weapons blessed?" He used biblical references to explain its spiritual significance.

Following the tea break, Rev. Fr. Roshan Pinto, Director of Sannidhi and Coordinator of the Jubilee Year, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the significance of the Jubilee and outlining the Diocese of Shimoga's strategy.

Subsequently, the assembly was divided into five groups for group discussions, with two questions: How can we commemorate the Jubilee at the Parish and Diocesan levels? The groups presented their reports to the assembly.

The closing remarks were delivered by Monsignor Stany D'Souza, who also led the Angelus. On behalf of the DPC, Mr. Arokiaswamy expressed gratitude to Bishop Francis Serrao SJ, Monsignor Stany D'Souza, and all participants for their active involvement.