The two-day Catholic Men’s Conference held at the Carmelite Monastery, Aquem, recently delved deep into social issues, especially among the young generation, even as the participants suggested holding another meeting to give more time to topics involving men, church and families.
Around 60 men from different walks of life from all over Goa attended the conference which was conducted by Fr Mario Fernandes, OCD (Canada), and Fr Alvito Fernandes, OCD, from Divine Springs Monastery, Xellim, Canacona.
Delving deep into scriptures from the Bible, both OCD priests emphasised the theme of the conference and urged Catholic men not to be afraid to come forward and share their faith to make the world a better place.
Fr Mario, who is involved in missionary work in Canada and is on a short visit to Goa, said that the evil one was quite strong in today’s world and tends to capture young influential minds with the evil purpose of snatching snatch them away from God.
He said that it was important for mature men to try and be there for the younger generation of men and lead them towards a more balanced life in Christ.
He spoke extensively of his ministry and its role in touching the lives of the youth through youth ministries and other parish-related projects in Canada.
Fr Alvito, who is based at the Divine Springs Monastery at Xellim, Canacona, explained through scriptures of daily reconciliation with oneself, Jesus and the Catholic faith.
He said it was important to spend at least 15 minutes twice a day to introspect on individual actions to get a better understanding of one’s self in a manner that is expected of Christian men.
Issues plaguing youth like substance abuse, alcohol, pornography, irregular relationships, suicidal tendencies, cordial home and family environment and relationship with the church, community and society were also touched.
Fr Alvito recalled how his personal encounter with God changed the course of his life and led him to serve God and share it with humanity in the vineyard of the Lord.
The conference ended with a Eucharistic celebration.