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Pastoral Council and Presbyterium
BELTHANGADY, June 2:In a significant step toward defining the future trajectory of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Diocese of Belthangady, a joint meeting of the Presbyterium (the council of priests) and the Pastoral Council was convened here on 2nd June2026.
This marks the first such joint conference since Most Rev. Mar James Patteril assumed office as the second bishop of the diocese, succeeding Bishop Emeritus Mar Lawrence Mukkuzhy.
The conference, which drew participation from diocesan priests, representatives of men and women religious congregations, and laity leaders, focused heavily on creating a comprehensive blueprint for the diocese's growth over the next five years.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The inaugural session commenced with a welcome address by Rev. Fr. Mani Veluthedathuparambil. Highlighting the purpose of the gathering, Fr. Veluthedathuparambil remarked, "It is not enough that we merely live; we need to form a vision and a goal which we must chase for a better future."
Delivering the inaugural address, Mar James Patteril paid tribute to the foundational contributions of Bishop Emeritus Mar Lawrence Mukkuzhy, acknowledging the dedicated efforts of the clergy, religious sisters, and the laity in building up the diocese.
Looking ahead, the Bishop emphasized that the immediate task at hand is to enhance this inherited vision and establish a clear roadmap for the upcoming five years.
The Four Pillars of Growth
Central to the Bishop’s address was the concept of "synodality"—a collaborative approach emphasizing the active participation of all church members in its life and mission. Mar James outlined four core areas of strategic focus essential for the diocese's forward momentum:
Spiritual Development: Deepening the faith and spiritual life of the community.
Pastoral Care: Strengthening parish ministries and community outreach.
Social Welfare: Expanding the diocese’s role in community development and social justice.
Financial Sustainability: Ensuring transparent and robust fiscal management to support diocesan initiatives.
Following the inaugural session, Rev. Dr. Biju Muttathukunnel and Rev Dr Joji Kakkaramattathil led the technical and deliberative sessions as the primary resource person, guiding the delegates through structured discussions to translate the Bishop's four-fold vision into actionable diocesan policies.
