Bangladesh diocesan priests’ fraternity (BDPF) held their annual general meeting and a seminar on Synodality at Holy Spirit Major Seminary in Dhaka from July 25 to 27.
About 165 Diocesan Priests from different parts of Bangladesh participated in this year's seminar. Archbishop of Dhaka Bejoy D’Cruze, Bishop Gervas Rozario of Rajshahi, and Bishop James Romen Boiragi of Khulna were present at the seminar.
The main theme of this seminar is "Formation of Local Church: Communion, Participation and Mission".
In the homily, Bishop Rozario said, "We are to be a synodal Church. And for the purpose of forming this synodal Church, the main theme of this year's AGM is Communion, Participation, and Mission. In forming this synodal church we must listen with the ears of body-mind-spirit".
"May we listen well and become people of hearing. Because God hears us. As His messengers, we will listen to our brothers and sisters with our hearts. At the same time, each of our pastors must become like a hunter to gain the kingdom of heaven for the people", said Bishop Gervas.
Archbishop D’Cruze of Dhaka said, "Certain aspects need to be emphasized for the formation of synodal Church. Through this Synod, the Holy Father wants to tell us that, first of all, we should think about the overall well-being of everyone".
"Public welfare or wishing everyone well is the first and main responsibility and duty of all of us as Christian servants", said Archbishop Bejoy.
The main speaker of this seminar Father Proshanto Reberio said, "Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission responsibility prioritize how priests are doing better in their lives as churches".
He continued, "Do we listen to what we say? And obey what I hear! Because, if we don't listen, we can't actively participate in the meeting, participating and sending".
"Therefore, if we are to walk the path together, we must build a fellowship society, be a participating congregation and take a leading role in missionary work", said Father Rebeiro.
Father Jyoti Costa, a member of the priests’ fraternity for 25 years, shared quoting Saint John Mary Vianney, "Priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus. And with this loving heart a pastor must listen to his Church".
"Because a priest with the loving heart of Jesus encourages all to serve in his pastoral life. Also, we have to remember what kind of pastor we aspire to be! Above all, a priest's life will be a Christ-centered life", said Father Costa.
The four-day Synodal seminar concluded with open discussion, evaluation and planning of the priorities of the Synod 2022.
With inputs from Ripon Abraham Tolentinu / Bengali Service
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