Mangalore, 14 November 2024: St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary marked a historic milestone by hosting its first-ever Alumni Meet for priests ordained between 2013 and 2024. The two-day gathering, held on 13th and 14th November, provided a platform for camaraderie, reflection, and collaboration among alumni.

Very Rev. Dr Ronald Serrao, the Rector of the Seminary, presided over the event, which brought together priests from across dioceses to celebrate their shared formation experiences. The meet was expertly coordinated by Rev. Fr Antony George Pinto, Rev. Fr Naveen Pinto, and their dedicated team.

The event commenced on 13th November with an arrival tea at 4:00 PM, followed by Vespers and a warm welcome address by Rev. Dr Serrao. The highlight of the first day was a sharing session on “Challenges in Priestly Ministry” facilitated by Rev. Dr Joseph Martis, fostering an open discussion on the realities of pastoral life.

The second day, 14th November, began with a Holy Mass and breakfast, followed by enriching sessions on pivotal themes. Rev. Dr Vincent Sequeira facilitated a thought-provoking discussion on “Challenges in Faith Formation and Secular Education in the Priestly Ministry.” This was succeeded by an insightful interaction with seminarians on “The Impact of Seminary Formation,” led by Rev. Dr Serrao, and a dialogue between alumni and teachers moderated by Rev. Dr Joy Painadath. In the afternoon, a session was organised on the theme “Social Media and Priestly Ministry” facilitated by Rev. Fr Anil Fernandes, who highlighted the significance of using digital platforms responsibly in pastoral outreach. The day concluded with a group visit titled “Mangalore Darshan,” allowing attendees to reconnect with the local heritage and culture.

The event fostered a spirit of unity and renewed purpose among participants. Speaking on the occasion, Very Rev. Dr Serrao emphasized the importance of such gatherings in nurturing bonds within the priestly fraternity and addressing contemporary challenges in ministry.

The meet concluded on 15th November with Holy Mass and a shared breakfast, leaving participants inspired and grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with their alma mater and fellow priests. This inaugural Alumni Meet exemplifies St Joseph’s Seminary’s commitment to its mission of holistic priestly formation, extending its influence well beyond the seminary walls.