Bangalore, India: A National Seminar on “Forever Yours: Fidelity and Perseverance in Consecrated Life” was held on January 28-29, 2023 in Sanyasa (the institute of consecrated life) based on the document “The Gift of Fidelity and the Joy of Perseverance.” The seminar brought together religious leaders, scholars, and members of the consecrated life to discuss and explore themes of fidelity and perseverance in their vocation.
The seminar began with a prayer dance and was attended by key guests, including Fr. Gonzalo Fernandez Sanz CMF, the Former Vicar General of Claretian Missionaries, and Fr. Arul Jesu Robin CMF, the Director of ICLS. The keynote address was delivered by Fr. Gonzalo Fernandez Sanz CMF and was followed by the launch of a fascinating book titled “A Birthing: When Grace Meets Nature” authored by Fr. Paulson Veliyannoor CMF.
The first plenary session was on “Liquid Fidelity in a Fragmented World: A Reality Check” and was delivered by Sr. Prabina Rudum IBVM, professor at Vidhyajothi College of Theology, Delhi. The session highlighted the challenges and impacts of liquid fidelity in modern times and its relevance to consecrated life.
Other programs throughout the two-day seminar included plenary sessions, panel discussions, poster presentations, and a case clinic session. The seminar concluded with a celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided by Fr. Gonzalo Fernandez Sanz, CMF.
In the coming days, there will also be three one-day regional seminars in Karukutty (Kerala), Barrackpore (West Bengal) and Ranchi (Jharkhand). The National Seminar provided a platform for members of the consecrated life to come together and engage in discussions and reflections on the important themes of fidelity and perseverance.
