An ongoing formation programme on “Synodality: Its Spirituality and Its Implementation” was held for the priests and religious sisters of the Haliyal and Sirsi Deaneries on 11 September 2026 at Holy Rosary Church, Yellapur.
A total of 48 members participated in the programme. The programme commenced with an opening prayer led by Rev. Fr. Ronald D’Souza, Dean of Haliyal Deanery, invoking God’s guidance and blessing upon the gathering.
The first session, “Spirituality of Synodality,” was conducted by Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Cruz. He explained synodality as a spiritual way of being Church, emphasizing the importance of walking together, listening to one another, sharing experiences, and discerning together under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. He highlighted that synodality is not merely a programme or activity but a way of life that calls every baptized person to communion, participation, and mission.
The second session, “Implementation of Synodality,” was led by Rev. Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Vicar General of the Diocese of Karwar. He focused on the practical application of synodal principles in the pastoral life of the Church. He encouraged the participants to foster greater participation, attentive listening, collaboration, and collective discernment in parishes, deaneries, religious communities, and other pastoral settings.
A group discussion formed an important part of the programme. Participants shared their experiences, reflections, pastoral challenges, and practical suggestions on strengthening synodality in their respective communities and areas of ministry. The interaction provided an opportunity for deeper reflection on the ways in which the Church can journey together more effectively in communion, participation, and mission.
The programme was organized with the generous support of Rev. Fr. Roystan Gonsalves, Parish Priest and Principal, who made the necessary arrangements for the gathering. He was assisted by Rev. Fr. Simon Siddi, Assistant Priest, and Deacon Joyston, who provided valuable media and technical support throughout the programme. Their dedicated service contributed significantly to the smooth and effective conduct of the event.
At the conclusion of the programme, Rev. Fr. Stany Crasta proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the resource persons, organizers, and all the priests and religious sisters for their active participation and valuable contributions.
The programme concluded with a fellowship lunch, providing an opportunity for the participants to strengthen their bonds of fraternity and communion. The gathering served as a meaningful occasion for the priests and religious of the Haliyal Zone to deepen their understanding of synodality and reflect on its practical implementation in the pastoral mission of the Church.
