Bangalore, 12 February 2020: His Eminence Oswald Cardinal Gracias, President of Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI), along with Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore and other CBCI office bearers jointly addressed the Press Conference on the wake of 34th Plenary Assembly at St. John’s, Bangalore beginning tomorrow.
Cardinal Gracias introduced the theme of the assembly: "Dialogue: the path to Truth and Charity”. He elaborated that dialogue is the tool which helps in building our nation. India, being the land of diverse cultures requires constant aid of dialogue to be in harmony with everyone. The Cardinal also reiterated that dialogue is the only salient aspect to demonstrate truth with charity.
Most Rev. Joshua Mar Ignathios, Vice President of CBCI, speaking to the reporters said, "the Catholic Church finds truth in people with charity. Service of humanity is the greatest form of worship to God".
In response to the questions of the journalists, the Cardinal responded "Peace and harmony doesn't take place in the absence of dialogue. If we keep silence, how can there be any form of dialogue?" the prelate said. He exemplified an anecdote of Pope Francis when he stressed the importance of dialogue by uttering the word thrice. Cardinal Oswald Gracias who is also the Archbishop of Bombay made a point that the church is the pioneer of education and also the Church is second to none when it comes to contributing to nation building in the fields of, rural health and social upliftment programs.
Archbishop Peter Machado at the beginning of the Press Conference welcomed His Eminence Cardinal Gracias and other CBCI office bearers to Namma Bengaluru by offering flower bouquets. Over 192 bishops across India have confirmed their participation at the plenary assembly that takes place once in two years. It's a week-long conference of discussions and deliberations from February 13th to 19th.
You can also view the entire episode of the press conference following this link: https://youtu.be/SrHK9eb6s8U
Please watch the live streaming of the inaugural mass and program exclusively on www.bangalorearchdiocese.org. Streaming begins on Thursday February 13, 2020 at 8:45 am - 1:00 pm IST.
Rev. Fr. Cyril Victor Joseph
Director, Archdiocesan Communication Center