Mysuru: Clergy, religious superiors, and brothers from across the Diocese of Mysore came together at the diocesan pastoral centre to celebrate the Feast of St Francis Xavier and participate in the annual Christmas fellowship gathering, a tradition that fosters unity, spiritual reflection, and communal celebration within the diocesan family. The occasion also included a special felicitation of Bishop Francis Serrao, SJ, in honour of his feast day.
The day began with a reflection session conducted by Fr. Freddy D’Silva, SJ, who drew insights from the social encyclicals of Pope Leo XIII. He emphasized the Church’s enduring obligation to the poor and vulnerable, urging priests and religious to deepen their pastoral engagement in a world struggling with inequality. His address encouraged participants to approach their ministry with compassion, justice, and renewed social sensitivity.
Following the session, the clergy and religious joined in the Holy Eucharist, celebrated by Bishop Serrao. In his homily, the bishop spoke about the sacred dignity of every human person, reminding the assembly that though humanity is shaped from the earth, it carries within it the breath of God. Invoking the inspiring missionary legacy of St Francis Xavier, he called on those present to recommit themselves to evangelization marked by humility, perseverance, and closeness to the people.
A short felicitation ceremony honoured Bishop Serrao for his leadership and pastoral zeal. Speakers praised his simplicity, accessibility, and steadfast concern for the poor and marginalized qualities reflected in the day’s theme, Dilexit Nos (“He loved us”). The tribute acknowledged his guiding presence in the diocese and his commitment to fostering a Church rooted in service.
After the programme, Bishop Serrao personally greeted each priest and religious, extending heartfelt Christmas wishes and offering a small token of appreciation as a sign of unity and fraternity. The celebration concluded with a sense of renewed mission, as clergy and religious prepared to lead their communities into the upcoming Christmas season with a shared spirit of faith and service.