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First Year Theologians’ Ministry Experience

St. Francis encouraged us to see the humble goodness of God in the Eucharist and to “pour out our hearts” in gratitude. His words deeply inspired me in my ministry, especially as I distributed Holy Communion, where many people shared that they experienced Christ in receiving from me. I also taught Catechism to 5th-standard students, focusing on the significance of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and I gained valuable insights from their questions. Later, I helped prepare children for their First Holy Communion alongside other teachers. Additionally, I participated in Small Christian Community meetings, where I shared my faith and deepened my understanding of God’s Word. These experiences not only connected Scripture to contemporary life but also strengthened my religious life through reflection and communal sharing. - Dhilip

My ministry took place at St. Anthony’s Friary Church, Bengaluru, where I was entrusted with teaching Catechism to the Kannada Confirmation class children. Initially, there was some confusion between me and the class teacher regarding responsibilities, as I was first assigned to teach general topics but later asked to handle academics as well. Despite this, everything went smoothly, and we successfully completed the Catechism classes. This experience was both enriching and a learning opportunity, as it was my first time teaching Catechism and improving my Kannada. Alongside teaching, I was involved in distributing Holy Communion and was honoured to be invited by the parish priest to sing at Mass on various occasions. Overall, I am grateful for this ministry and for all who made it possible. – Karthik

I began my ministry at St. Anthony’s Church in June, serving as the class teacher for the First Holy Communion children. It was an honour to teach and guide a class of 26 students, 24 of whom successfully received their First Holy Communion this year. In addition to teaching, I was actively involved in the parish’s spiritual life, serving as a Eucharistic Minister during the eight Sunday Masses, which allowed me to experience the Holy Eucharist in a more personal and meaningful way. I also participated in Small Christian Community (SCC) gatherings, including those in ST Bed, where I had the opportunity to share the Word of God and listen to the faith experiences of fellow parishioners. These gatherings deepened my own faith and enriched my ministry. Overall, my time at St. Anthony’s Friary has been a rewarding and transformative experience, for which I am truly grateful. – Brian

Sunday is the most sacred and enriching day of my week, a time for faith, service, and communion with God’s people—a day of both giving and receiving immeasurable grace. It begins with the privilege of distributing the Holy Eucharist at all Masses, where witnessing the faith and devotion of each communicant deepens my own understanding of this sacred mystery. One of my greatest joys is teaching Catechism to Class 7, where the children's curiosity and zeal inspire me through their thoughtful questions. Teaching them is not just about imparting knowledge but about nurturing a lifelong love for God. I also cherish guiding children in preparing to proclaim the Word of God at Mass, witnessing their growing confidence and the encouragement they receive from their parents. Attending SCC ward meetings with Br. Dhilip further nourishes my spiritual life, as reflecting on the Gospel with parishioners and seeing their eagerness to grow in faith fills me with renewed purpose. Through these experiences, my Sunday ministry has become more than a responsibility—it is a gift that allows me to serve, teach, learn, and form meaningful relationships. Each Sunday, I feel enriched and drawn deeper into my Franciscan vocation, which I cherish with gratitude and joy. – Allwin

God is at work in the world, calling each person to both a ministry within the body of Christ and a mission in the world. My ministry is my service to believers, and my mission is my service to unbelievers. Along with my fellow companions, I participated in Sunday ministry at St. Anthony’s Church, Bangalore, engaging in three key activities: distributing Holy Communion, teaching Catechism, and attending Basic Christian Community (BCC) meetings. As a Eucharistic Minister, I assisted in distributing Holy Communion during Sunday Mass, maintaining reverence and devotion while ensuring a smooth and orderly distribution alongside my brothers and the priest. Teaching Catechism to Class 3 students, alongside Br. Prakash, was a joyful and interactive experience, with 53 students learning about the Catholic faith, biblical teachings, sacraments, prayer, and church traditions. Our lessons incorporated storytelling, group activities, drawing, and project work, while also emphasizing moral values and good manners. Additionally, I participated in BCC meetings in Maruti Nagar with Br. Ralbin, where monthly gatherings included prayer, the rosary, scripture reading, and reflection, providing a meaningful faith-sharing experience. My Sunday ministry at St. Anthony’s Church continues to be spiritually enriching, deepening my faith while allowing me to serve the Church and community. I look forward to continuing this mission, nurturing young minds, and contributing to the faith of others. – Kamal Ekka

As part of my parish ministry this year, I had the enriching opportunity to teach altar servers, an experience that was both inspiring and instrumental in my personal and spiritual growth. Guiding young minds in their journey of service to the Church deepened my own faith while teaching me the value of patience, understanding, and effective communication. The enthusiasm of the altar servers to learn and serve was truly uplifting, and witnessing their growth in confidence and skill reassured me that I was helping to form the next generation of liturgical leaders. This experience also strengthened my leadership and teaching abilities, deepened my appreciation for the structure and meaning of the Mass, and reinforced my reverence and devotion. One of the most cherished moments of my ministry was assisting in the distribution of Holy Communion—an experience of profound grace and humility as I had the privilege of giving Jesus to others. Additionally, I actively participated in ward meetings in St. Alphonsa Ward, Maruti Nagar, where I engaged with parishioners, listened to their insights, and grew through their wisdom. I am grateful for this journey and for the opportunity to contribute to the spiritual growth of others while deepening my own faith.

– Ralbin Joeal. J

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