On March 21, 2025, at 5:30 PM, Our Lady of Vailankanni Church in Gandhinagar, Bhadrvathi, organized a solemn Way of the Cross, followed by an adult catechesis session for parishioners. The session was led by Bishop Francis Serrao of the Diocese of Shimoga, who emphasized the significance of Lenten practices and the symbolism of numbers in the Bible.
Bishop Serrao highlighted the importance of the 40-day Lenten period, drawing parallels to biblical events such as Jesus’ 40 days in the desert. He explained the biblical meaning of numbers, noting that the number seven symbolizes completeness, while six signifies incompleteness. To illustrate this, he referenced the Wedding at Cana, where Jesus transformed water in six stone jars into wine, positioning Himself as the seventh element, representing fulfillment and perfection.
The bishop elaborated on the three pillars of Lenten observance: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. He also reflected on Jesus’ three temptations in the desert, linking them to the different spiritual challenges we face in our faith journey. Through the parable of Lazarus and the rich man and the crucifixion of two thieves alongside Jesus, he provided deep insights into the choices that lead us either toward or away from salvation.
Connecting his teaching to the Old Testament, Bishop Serrao spoke about the two trees in Genesis—the Tree of Knowledge and the Tree of Life. He identified the Cross on Calvary as the new Tree of Life, offering redemption to humanity. He also highlighted the significance of Bethlehem, meaning “House of Bread,” as the birthplace of Jesus, the Bread of Life, who ultimately offered Himself on the Cross—the very Tree of Life he had referenced earlier.
Addressing the Holy Week Triduum, the bishop emphasized the inclusive nature of the foot-washing ceremony on Maundy Thursday, encouraging the participation of people from all walks of life, in line with Pope Francis’ call for inclusivity. He also explained the significance of the blessing of the three holy oils, which is exclusively performed by the bishop:
- The Oil of Catechumens (used for those preparing for baptism),
- The Oil of the Sick (for anointing the ill), and
- The Holy Chrism, sacred oil enriched with balsam, used not only in baptisms but also in the consecration of new altars, church doors, the ordination of bishops, and the blessing of church bells that call the faithful to prayer.
Concluding his catechesis, Bishop Serrao spoke about the concept of resurrection, distinguishing it from mere resuscitation or revival. He described resurrection as a transformative passage to eternal life, the ultimate promise for every Christian.
Following the session, Fr. Steevan D’Sa, the parish priest, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the bishop for his enlightening discourse. The evening continued with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, during which children, youth, and adults were awarded prizes for their contributions in designing the jubilee logo and mascot, as well as for their achievements in essay writing competitions.
A newly installed statue of St. Joseph was blessed and inaugurated by the bishop, while Sr. Wilma, Superior of the congregation, unveiled the donor name board for the Providence Presbytery. The eventful evening concluded with the community receiving abundant blessings, marking a spiritually enriching and memorable occasion.
