Benaulim, Goa, February 7, 2024 (CCBI): The collaborative effort of the CCBI Commission for Liturgy and Shanti Sadan in organizing the intensive liturgy course underscored the importance of celebrating liturgy in a manner that is both proper, effective, and relevant to the norms. Held from February 6th to 10th, 2024, at Shanti Sadan in Goa, the course attracted a total of 34 participants comprising priests, religious, and lay faithful.
Rev. Fr. Duming Gonsalves, the Administrator of Shanti Sadan, extended a warm welcome to all participants at the commencement of the course. The inaugural session of the course was graced by Rev. Fr. Arulraj Gali CSC, the Executive Secretary for the Commission for Family, who presided over the event.
Rev. Dr. Moncy Nellikunnel, SDB, served as the primary resource person for the duration of the course. He covered a wide array of topics including the Introduction to Liturgy, Grades of Liturgical Days, History of the Liturgical Year, Post-Vatican II Revisions of the Liturgical Year, Liturgical Calendar, General Norms for the Liturgical Year, and General Norms for the Liturgical Calendar. The participants engaged in interactive sessions, including group work, focusing on key aspects such as the Eucharist, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of the Eucharist, Liturgy of the Hours, and Sacramentals.
Fr. Romeo Monteiro, Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, led sessions dedicated to Liturgical Music, enriching the participants’ understanding of this integral aspect of liturgical celebrations.
The course drew participation from a diverse group, including 7 priests, 9 sisters, and 18 laypeople from various dioceses and congregations, fostering a collaborative and inclusive learning environment.
In addition to the rigorous training sessions, the participants were privileged to embark on a meaningful pilgrimage to significant historical and religious sites. The itinerary included visits to iconic landmarks such as Sé Cathedral, Old Goa, Church of the Cross of Miracles, St. Joseph Vaz Centre, Tomb of Agnel in Pilar, St. Joseph Vaz Church in Sancoale, and St. John Baptist Church in Benaulim, providing them with a deeper appreciation of the rich religious heritage of the region.
Fr Duming Gonsalves