Caritas India along with the Karnataka Regional Forum hosted the Karnataka Regional Assembly of the social apostolate on January 10, 2022, to strengthen the partnership and plan for the upcoming diamond jubilee.

The regional assembly started with a eucharistic celebration led by Most Rev. Francis Serrao, President of Karnataka Regional Organization for Social Service (KROSS), Bengaluru and Bishop of Shivamogga Diocese. In his homily, he said that in Caritas India has chosen a right and very appropriate theme for this regional assembly, ‘fraternity in humanity – walking together’. The Organization, since its inception, has been accompanying natural partners and other civil society organizations in implementing so many developmental activities in the region. As a humanitarian organization, it has also extended its support in the emergencies of the region. It has got a very strong path and enriched experience to proceed further with conviction.     

Most Rev. Sebastian Kallupura, Chairman of Caritas India and Archbishop of Patna, in his presidential address said that we all have to recognize and appreciate the continuous efforts done by Caritas India for the region through the DSSSs of Karnataka. There are more challenges ahead for faith-based organizations after the new amendment of FCRA 2020. However, by working together, we can overcome the hurdles and the mission can be fulfilled. 

Fr. (Dr.) Paul Moonjely, Executive Director of Caritas India briefly shared the objectives of the regional assembly. He emphasized having solidarity and social friendship to mitigate the issues such as covid, climate and conflicts. 

Fr. (Dr.) Jolly Puthenpura, Assistant Executive Director of Caritas India, shared his thoughts on the perspectives and the new paradigms for promoting social service in the dioceses and the region. He called the DSSSs to be more skilled, passionate, innovative, value-based and sustained. 

During the open house session, the participants have suggested remembering the diamond jubilee, each DSSS can have a model Caritas village, all the partner organizations can plant saplings, etc.

Along with 14 Diocesan Directors of Social Service Societies of Karnataka, the representatives of other religious congregations were also present for the assembly.