On October 16, 2024, a seminar on "Lumen Gentium," a pivotal document from the Second Vatican Council, was organized at Anugraha Pastoral Centre, Udupi, for priests and deacons of the Diocese of Udupi. The gathering saw about 60 participants in attendance. Facilitators Rev. Dr Rajesh Rosario and Rev. Dr Praveen Joy Saldanha, both esteemed professors of theology at St Joseph Seminary, Mangalore, spearheaded the day’s discussions.
The seminar commenced with a prayer led by Rev. Fr Wilson D’Souza. Following this, Most Rev. Dr Gerald Lobo, Bishop of Udupi, warmly welcomed the attendees and introduced the resource persons. Dr Rajesh Rosario provided an insightful historical context on the significance of the "Lumen Gentium" document, underscoring its lasting influence on the Church's self-understanding. Dr Praveen Joy Saldanha guided the participants through its eight chapters, highlighting major themes such as the Church as a divine mystery, the People of God, the significance of the laity, and the universal call to holiness.
A lively panel session, moderated by Msgr. Ferdinand Gonsalves, followed the presentations. The discussions touched on important topics such as the Church's nature and mission, the hierarchical structure, the complementary role of Scripture and Tradition, and the profound role of Mary in the life of the Church.
In his concluding address, Bishop Gerald Lobo urged the clergy to actively promote the teachings of "Lumen Gentium" among the laity, stressing the universal call to holiness as a central tenet of the document. This seminar is part of a larger series of preparatory events leading up to the Ordinary Jubilee 2025, marking the fourth in a series focused on key documents of the Second Vatican Council.
