June 28: Following the 7:00 a.m. Holy Mass on Sunday, members of the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC), and the various Pastoral Commissions gathered in the church mini hall for a pastoral leadership training programme.

The session began with an invocation led by Assistant Parish Priest, Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha . The gathering was welcomed by PPC Vice President, Mr John D’Silva. The resource person, V.Rev. Fr Naveen Pinto, Judicial Vicar and Diocesan Coordinator for Pastoral Commissions of the Diocese of Mangalore, was introduced by the Commission Coordinator, Mrs Avitha Mascarenhas.

As part of the parish’s ongoing mission to strengthen lay leadership and promote collaborative pastoral ministry, V. Rev. Fr Naveen Pinto guided the participants on their canonical responsibilities, the role of the Parish Pastoral Council, the functions of the various pastoral commissions, and the importance of working together in the service of God’s people.

Parish Priest Rev. Fr Basil Vas was present to encourage and guide the members, along with Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School.

Those on the dais included V. Rev. Fr Naveen Pinto, Rev. Fr. Basil Vas, Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, PPC Vice President Mr John D’Silva, PPC Secretary Mr Alwyn Saldanha, and Commission Coordinator Mrs Avitha Mascarenhas.

The training emphasized prayerful leadership, transparency, active participation of the laity, and shared responsibility in building a vibrant parish community. Participants were reminded that every ministry is a call to serve Christ through humble and faithful service to His Church. The interactive session witnessed enthusiastic participation, reflecting the parish’s commitment to strengthening its pastoral mission and working together for the greater glory of God and the growth of His Kingdom.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mr Jason Fernandes, Shrine Convener, expressing sincere appreciation to the resource person, the clergy, and all those who contributed to the success of the training programme.

Report :Meena Serrao Barboza

Photography :Murel Misquith.