Redemptorists of Bangalore Province Resolve to Implement Synodality in Parish Ministry
Bangalore, 3 March 2025 – In a significant move towards fostering a more synodal Church, 40 Redemptorist priests of the Bangalore Province convened for an online seminar on Implementing Synodality in Parish Ministry and Administration.The seminar, held on 3 March 2025, focused on deepening the understanding of synodality and integrating it into parish structures, especially in light of the Holy Year Jubilee 2025.
The seminar was presided over by Very Rev. Fr. Edward Joseph Raju CSsR, Provincial Superior of the Bangalore Province. In his presidential address, Fr. Edward Raj CSsR urged parish priests to embrace synodality as a way of being Church. “We must own synodality in order to implement it effectively,” he emphasized, calling for active participation, co-responsibility, and inclusion in parish life.
Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, National Coordinator for Synod and Jubilee 2025, facilitated the session with an insightful exposition on the practical steps for implementing synodality in parish governance. In the light of The Final Document, and the CCBI Pastoral Plan Mission 2033, he highlighted how a synodal approach can lead to deeper communion, participation, and mission-oriented pastoral ministry.
The event was efficiently coordinated by Fr. Sandeep Menezes CSsR and Fr. George, ensuring an interactive and engaging session for the participants.
Voices from the Participants
Fr. Christopher CSsR, a parish priest from Karnataka, shared his enthusiasm: “This seminar has been an eye-opener. Synodality is not just a concept but a call to action. I am now committed to creating more spaces for dialogue and participation in my parish. And I wish more lay people come forward to take up different roles.”
Fr. Arul Sekar CSsR, a missionary in Tamil Nadu, reflected on the session’s impact: “Understanding synodality as a shared responsibility has transformed my approach to ministry. I now see my parish community as co-pilgrims on a journey of faith, where every voice matters.”
As the Redemptorists of Bangalore Province step into the Holy Year Jubilee 2025, they reaffirm their commitment to making their parishes vibrant centers of synodal renewal. This seminar marks a decisive step in embracing a collaborative and inclusive model of Church ministry.