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Prasandeep Ekka - Ministry Experience

I began my ministry in the month of June 2024 and completed in the month of February 2025. My ministry place was St. Anthony’s Church Bettadasnpura, Bangalore. It is run by the diocese of Bangalore. I went for ministry along with Bro. Pradeep Anthony. I was happy to go new place and explored myself to the realities of life and saw the struggles of the people which molded my life to do something for the people. I was involved in the parish ministry, visiting the houses of the faithful and praying with them. As I remember the words from the gospel Jesus says “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Mt 18:20. I truly experienced God was being present with us in the families. I was also involved with children and youths and accompanied them in the various ways to grow in the love of God. Working with children and youths I felt deep within me that each with their unique skills and perspectives taught a lot of lesson for my life. As my journey is has begun to become friar minor this experience was so needed for my growth. It helped me to appreciate the value of teamwork. It strengthened the importance of respecting different viewpoints and finding common ground to achieve a shared goal. Through this, I understood that change is most effective when driven by collective effort.

The ministry was an enriching journey of learning and self-discovery of my real self. The experience in the ministry place opened my eyes to the realities of society, deepened my understanding of human struggles. It strengthened my commitment in making a difference in the lives of the people and make known my identity as a Franciscan. One of the most profound lessons I learned was the power of empathy. Interacting with the faithful, listening to their stories, and witnessing their faith experience taught me that genuine compassion goes beyond words it requires action. I began to see the world with the eyes of faith, love and compassion perspectives, which challenged my preconceived notions and deepened my sense of social responsibility towards my fellow beings.

Thus, working in the parish and interacting with the people had provided me the practical knowledge that extended beyond my textbooks and the class room knowledge. All the experience gave me firsthand growth towards the love of God, being adaptable to any circumstances of life, and communicating the life of Christ by my talents and the abilities. I learned to experience God in the poor and the suffering people. The class room knowledge led me to practical living experience and my faith increased in the almighty God. It broadened my understanding of the mission which is entrusted to me by God the Father. Perhaps the most lasting impact of the experience was a renewed sense of purpose in my life for the mission of God and working for the poor and the marginalized. Seeing the positive effects of even small actions reinforced my belief that transformation begins with individual commitment and recognizing the face of God in all the people Hence my ministry was fruitful and full of colourful experiences which were profound learning journey. It reshaped my perspectives, enhanced my skills, and instilled in me a deeper sense of empathy and service. The lessons learned will remain with me, guiding my future endeavours toward creating a more just and compassionate society.

Bro. Prasandeep Ekka
Theology – II
MINISTRY EXPERIENCE 2024 - 25 AT St. Anthony’s Church
Bettadasnpura, Bangalore

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