BM Bureau Oct 17 : In an initiative of praying for the world after going through two difficult years of Covid – 19, the preparation for the global religious meeting of the Catholic Christians which is identified as Synod commenced in the Diocese of Belgaum on Sunday.
With its theme ‘ Journeying together’, Bishop of Belgaum Rev Dr Derek Fernandes presided over the mass that was held at Fatima Cathedral at 8 am.
Representatives from five districts bearing flags of five civil districts of Belagavi, Bagalkote, Dharwad, Gadag, Haveri and Chandgad taluk in Maharashtra marched the path of union, collaboration and participation.
The initiative for Synod commenced in Rome with the call by Pope Francis of the Holy Father Pope Francis on October 10 for Communion, Participation and Mission.
In his message Bishop Derek Fernandes invited the people to walk together, care for each other and listen to the needs of the people. He also expressed his willingness to reach to all the strata of the people irrespective of caste, creed, religion.
The two year prayer programme ends in 2023. During these two years various programmes and consultation with the people are planned. It is a path of knowing more and serving better. After two years of difficult path which the people faced due to Covid-19 and the subsequent lock downs, the people of the diocese have expressed their relief and happiness for all that His Lordship Derek Fernandes hopes for the diocese and for his people.
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Photo : Bishop Derek Fernandes, Fr Jack Menezes, Fr Philip Kutty, Fr Joseph Castelino during the inaugural synodal meet.