Devotional News

Shivamogga, 20 October 2022: Diocese of Shimoga had organised a three-day seminar on Spirituality of St Paul at 'Sannidhi' Centre for Pastoral Renewal, Shivamogga from October 18 to 20.

Rev. Dr Selva Rathinam, SJ, Professor of Scripture, JD, Pune was the resource person. On 18th October the programme began with prayer led by Rev. Fr Stany D'Souza and Rev. Fr Alvine Stanislaus read the Word of God. Rev. Fr Eugene Lobo SJ introduced the resource person and welcomed the participants on behalf of the Bishop.

Rev. Dr Selva Rathinam dealt first day on : Paul the Missionary, Paul the theologian and in after noon sessions he explained the Missionary Journey of St Paul. Questions for reflection and group sharing also led by the resource person.

On the Second day, on October 19th, he dealt on : Existence without Christ; in which he explained Pauline thought in Flesh, Sin, Law and Death. After noon he explained St. Ignatius' rules for spiritual growth in the light of St. Paul. He explained; 14 rules for the discernment of spirits in the first week of the Spiritual Exercises, and, 8 rules for the Discernment of spirits in the second week . He also dealt with "spiritual conversation" as a method of Discernment.

On the third day, 20 October, he dealt on the following topics: 1. Examination of conscience and process of examination of conscience, 2. Salvation in St Paul, 3. Work of Christ; Justification, Reconciliation, Redemption and Expiation. 4. Justification through faith; The law and Faith.
5. Life in the spirit: a) Christian existence: life in the spirit, b) Christian community: the gifts of the spirit, c) Christian conduct: walking according to the Spirit.

Seminar was concluded with vote of thanks proposed by Rev. Fr Anthony Peter at 12.45 PM.

Together with Bishop Francis Serrao, SJ forty four Priests and Religious from the Diocese of Shimoga participated in the seminar. It was indeed a soul stirring experience for all of us.

Report by
Fr Franklin D'Souza