MANGALORE, August 12, 2025 – The feast of St John Berchmans, patron of philosophers, was celebrated with devotion and joy at St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary. The event was organized by the students of philosophy along with the Human Formation Director.

The celebration began on Tuesday, August 12, with Solemn Vespers in the Main Chapel at 5:45 p.m., presided over by Rev. Fr Flavian Lobo, Section Minister and Human Formation Director for Philosophy. Br Jostan Dsouza, Prefect of Philosophy, preached on the theme “Faith as Wisdom.” Later in the evening, at 8:30 p.m., a cultural programme on Indian Philosophy, titled “Tatva,” was held in the C.M. Hall. Rev. Dr. Lilly Pereira, Provincial Superior of the Bethany Sisters, Mangalore Province, was the chief guest.

On the following day, Wednesday, August 13, the festal Mass was celebrated in the Main Chapel at 6:15 a.m., with Rev. Dr Praveen Martis, SJ, Vice Chancellor of St Aloysius Deemed to be University, as the main celebrant.

The two-day celebration combined prayer, fellowship and cultural expression, honouring the life and virtues of St John Berchmans. It brought together students, staff and guests in gratitude for the gift of philosophy and its role in forming committed disciples of Christ.