On Thursday, July 11th, clergy from Mumbai, Raigad, Navi Mumbai, and Thane gathered at St. Pius College X, Goregaon, for the annual opening clergy meeting. The seminary's entrance lobby buzzed with energy as priests reunited with classmates and friends, sharing coffee, refreshments, and joyous laughter. The air was filled with joy as priests reunited with classmates and friends, sharing coffee, refreshments, laughter, and companionship.
The day began with a prayer led by the Bandra deanery fathers. His Eminence the Cardinal then addressed the gathering, starting with a solemn remembrance of priests who had passed away in the last year, adding a personal touch to each name.
The Cardinal emphasized the importance of the ongoing Synod on Synodality, inspired by Pope Francis. He encouraged the clergy to read the Pope's letter to parish priests and highlighted the significance of the synodal process in fostering dialogue and reflection on the Church's contemporary challenges. He also mentioned the "INSTRUMENTUM LABORIS," a document focusing on the Church's mission and synodal nature.
A Jubilee committee member shared the progress of the Jubilee journey, outlining Pope Francis's vision for the two years leading up to the Jubilee. The first year focuses on rediscovering Vatican II teachings, while the second year is dedicated to prayer. The committee also showcased videos to educate the faithful about the importance of the Jubilee and Vatican II documents.
The Cardinal addressed the crucial issue of healthcare among priests, stressing the need for regular medical check-ups to prevent burnout and health issues. He also discussed the evolving regulations regarding Trusts and Trust law, urging the clergy to stay updated on the latest developments with assistance from the archdiocese's finance and estate offices.
The meeting concluded with a Q&A session and Benediction. The rector introduced new seminarians, and concerns about the decline in vocations were expressed. After a hearty lunch, the priests returned to their respective parishes, carrying the day's insights and camaraderie with them.