The Diocesan Pastoral Council of Salem embarked on a transformative journey of learning and discernment as they delved into the profound teachings encapsulated in the Four Constitutions of the Second Vatican Council. The Council, comprised of dedicated clergy and laity, immersed themselves in a comprehensive study aimed at deepening their understanding of the Church's core principles and mission.
This initiative, led by the visionary leadership of the Salem Diocese, sought to empower members with the wisdom encapsulated in the constitutions, namely: Sacrosanctum Concilium (Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy), Lumen Gentium (Dogmatic Constitution on the Church), Dei Verbum (Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation), and Gaudium et Spes (Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World).
Through a day of collaborative study sessions, discussions, and reflections, the Diocesan Pastoral Council not only absorbed the profound teachings but also identified key pastoral priorities that resonate with the present needs of the local faith community.
Msgr. D. Michaelraj Selvam, Vicar General, inaugurating the Jubilee Yātra on behalf of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Arulselvam Rayappan, Bishop of Salem, said that the Jubilee 2025 invites us to a journey with three orientations, viz., orientation to God, to the Church, and to ourselves.
The event was organised on 24 February 2024 at Annai Illam in the premises of Infant Jesus Cathedral. Rev. Fr. J. Bernard Joseph, the Diocesan Contact Person for Jubilee 2025, Rev. Fr. Gobi Emmanuel, the Director of the Pastoral Centre, and Rev. Dr. Joseph Lazar, the Parish Priest of Infant Jesus Cathedral planned and coordinated the program, which was facilitated by Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, National Coordinator for Jubilee 2025.
"The reflection on the Four Constitutions of the Second Vatican Council in the light of the Synod for a Synodal Church was an eye-opener for me to identify the pastoral priorities for my parish," said a priest-participant.
"We want the treasury of the Magisterial Teachings easily available and accessible to all the parishioners," said Mr. Charles Richard, an entrepreneur.
Earlier, Most Rev. Dr. Arulselvam Rayappan, Bishop of Salem, expressing gratitude for the Diocesan Pastoral Council's dedication to this learning endeavour stated, "The engagement of our Diocesan Pastoral Council with the Second Vatican Council's constitutions is a testament to our commitment to a vibrant, informed, and spiritually enriched community. The identified pastoral priorities will guide our collective efforts in fostering a faith-filled and compassionate environment for all."
This significant milestone marks a renewed commitment to the mission of the Church in Salem, aligning it with the timeless wisdom of the Second Vatican Council. The Diocesan Pastoral Council looks forward to implementing these priorities in collaboration with the clergy and laity, fostering a dynamic and responsive faith community.