India: Canon Law for the Laity Convocation Ceremony

Awards ceremony

Rev Dr Merlin Rengith Ambrose DCL writes:

The Commission for Canon Law in the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) celebrated the successful conclusion of its one-year international 'Diploma in Canon Law for the Laity for a Synodal Church' with a convocation ceremony in Bangalore on February 8, 2026 in which all the participants were awarded a diploma in Canon Law by Most Rev Dr S Antonysamy, the Chairman of the commission for Canon Law in the CCBI in the presence of Rev Dr Stephen Alathara, the deputy secretary general of the CCBI and Rev Dr Merlin Rengith Ambrose, the executive secretary of the commission for Canon Law in the CCBI.

The programme, inaugurated on June 7, 2025, brought together a diverse group of 264 participants from various countries, including Malaysia, the USA, Australia, Italy, Sri Lanka, Brunei, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Sudan, South Africa, Kuwait, England, Ireland, Canada, the UAE, and India. The course, which lasted for one full year, was appropriately designed and organised by Rev. Dr. Merlin Rengiht Ambrose, the executive Secretary of the Commission for Canon Law in the CCBI, under the able guidance of Most Rev. Dr. S. Antonysamy, the chairman of the same commission in the CCBI.

On the inauguration of this annual programme, on June 7, 2025, His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, the president of the CCBI, emphasised the crucial role of the laity in the Church, particularly in relation to the tria munera Christi, the threefold mission of Christ. The program provided a unique formative opportunity for laity, religious, and clergy, focusing on understanding the Church's teachings regarding rights and responsibilities in promoting a synodal church.

Participants engaged deeply with the course content, submitting a cumulative total of 50 pages of assignments throughout the year. The initiative saw substantial international engagement, reflecting a commitment to fostering a greater understanding of Canon Law and its applications within various dioceses and parishes.

The diverse faculty for the Diploma Course included Bishops, esteemed Professors of Canon Law, and prominent Canonists from both India and around the world, ensuring rigorous academic standards and practical applications.

Each participant committed to utilising their newly acquired knowledge of Canon Law in their respective ministries, excited to contribute positively towards their communities in alignment with Church teachings. Many described the journey of learning Canon Law as an eye-opening experience that will enhance their service and engagement in the Church.

The Catholic Church in India takes pride in these graduates, who are poised to serve as advocates for a synodal Church, enriching their local congregations with their newfound insights and understanding of Canon Law.