OLCM completes 25 years of service to Bombay Archdiocese

 Fr Aniceto Pereira

 It was the Synod of the Archdiocese of Bombay held in 2001 that spoke of an Office for Training in Ministry (cf: Post-Synodal Document, Nos. 56 & 68.4). Already at that time, it was being increasingly realised that the diverse pastoral programmes in the Archdiocese, organised through the commitment of ordained ministers, were being animated by the members of different Cells and Associations, comprising lay persons and women religious. The conviction slowly grew that with their sound formation, one would be able to harness their energies in an effective manner, producing better results. With careful investment in training, the parish would be able to define specific objectives to be accomplished, ensure that these objectives have been allotted to carefully chosen individuals for execution, that the best use is made of all available resources, and that at the end of the day, there is a thorough evaluation of the results obtained. This strategy would also ensure that there is no loss of energy due to duplication of services.

Lay Collaboration in the SCCs

Rena Rodricks DHM

 Before ascending to the Father, Jesus gave us a profound commission:

“I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)

In Mark 16:15, Jesus says, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all Creation.” This is a clear call to action — an invitation to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world. The message of the Gospel is one of hope, forgiveness of sins through faith in Jesus, and the assurance of His constant presence with us through every circumstance. His love for us never wavers.

Start with the person…

Mishal Dabre

Change Begins Here: Stories of Courage, Community, and Action

In a world overwhelmed by problems, it’s easy to believe that one person can’t make a difference. But step into the heart of a struggling community, and you’ll see another story—one where determination, unity, and faith light the way. With the right support, ordinary people can become agents of extraordinary transformation.

The Centre for Social Action (CSA) of the Archdiocese of Bombay works with such people—those living in underserved communities across Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad. CSA’s mission is rooted in empowering the marginalised through capacity building, awareness, and grassroots leadership development. And the results speak for themselves.

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

The Joy of being in Church Ministry

Reena Poddar

“I experience the greatest joy when I’m involved in the Church. It’s difficult to put into words, but for me, it’s a privilege to be called by God to share in His mission; I truly enjoy every moment of it. For ten years, I had the blessing of serving on my parish Prison Ministry team, and I saw the Lord work powerfully there. For the last seven years, I’ve been serving in the Bible Cell, and I’m happy that God continues to use me in powerful ways. I also had the privilege of serving twice on the PPC, contributing to the life of our parish community. Being involved in the Church draws me closer to the Lord, deepens my relationship with Him, and fills me with joy, peace and purpose as I labour in His vineyard.” - Maritta Pereira, St John the Baptist Church, Thane

Digital Discipleship: Evangelising in the Age of Screens

Neil D’Souza

O n the feast of Corpus Christi, the Archdiocese of Bombay hosted a transformative Media Workshop at St Andrew’s College Conference Hall, Bandra, drawing together parish Media Cell members, Catholic communicators, and creatives from across the city. Organised by the Catholic Communication Centre and The Examiner, the workshop was a vibrant blend of spiritual reflection, technical training, and pastoral vision. A similar workshop was held the previous Sunday, June 15, at St John the Baptist Church, Thane in which 40 parish communicators participated. The workshop held on June 22 at Bandra drew more than 140 participants. The two workshops were held to commemorate the Jubilee Year 2025, the month of June being allotted to Media and Communications.

The Apostolic Life of Saints Peter and Paul :  A Model for All Christian Life

Fr Anthony Charanghat

T he Apostles Peter and Paul stand before us as witnesses, proclaimers, and martyrs to the salvific life and love of Jesus. Saints Peter and Paul, who were model apostles, never tired of preaching and journeying as missionaries—from the land of Jesus to Rome itself. There, they gave their ultimate witness by offering their lives as martyrs. If we go to the heart of that testimony, we can see them as witnesses to His life, and to the alchemy of Jesus’ forgiving and saving love.