Kanpur Seminar Calls Catholic Families to Renew Faith, Prayer and Unity

A two-day Christian Life Seminar for Catholic families was held in Kanpur with a focus on strengthening family relationships, deepening faith and encouraging a culture of prayer at home. The seminar was organized by the Missionary Families of Christ India in collaboration with the Family Commission of the Diocese of Allahabad. Catholic families participated in talks, group discussions, prayer and spiritual reflection on challenges facing Christian families today. Speakers Vijendra Kumar from Patna and Santosh Francis from Bengaluru emphasized the importance of regular family prayer, unity, steadfast faith in Christ and active participation in parish life. Participants also shared their experiences and discussed ways of strengthening their spiritual lives within their homes. The second day's sessions focused on developing faith and harmony through prayer, mutual respect and Christian values. George Joseph from Ludhiana, together with Elvis and Macleen Countinho from Goa, spoke about the responsibility of Catholic families to contribute to parish life through Church ministries and social outreach. George Joseph also conducted a session preparing participants for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Eucharistic adoration provided participants with time for prayer and reflection before the concluding Holy Mass. During the Mass, Bishop Louis Mascarhenas of Allahabad spoke about his experiences of family life and acknowledged the changing circumstances and challenges faced by Catholic families in Kanpur. He also highlighted opportunities for families to strengthen their faith and Christian witness within the diocese. The bishop reaffirmed the Diocese of Allahabad's commitment to strengthening Catholic family life and appreciated the efforts of Fr. Stephen Manoj D’Souza, Director of the Family Commission, Noel George, Secretary, and the Missionary Families of Christ team in organizing the seminar. The seminar concluded by emphasizing prayer, family unity and active participation in Church life as important elements of Christian family life amid contemporary challenges.