The Karnataka Region Catholic Bishops’ Council has created history by appointing two laypeople to head its co-mmission for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes. Arch-bishop Peter Machado of Ban-galore, the council president, on April 7 announced the appointment of Isabella Selvaraj Xavier as the commi-ssion’s joint secretary, the first woman to hold the post. The council has also promoted the current joint secretary Alphonse G Kennedy as the commission secre-tary. Kennedy is the first layperson to serve as secretary of the commission. Fr. Yagappa, the outgoing secretary, hailed Kennedy’s promotion as a “a significant and well-de-served recognition” of his dedication and commit-ment. “We extend our warmest congratulations to him on this important role. We are confi-dent that his expertise and passion will greatly benefit the interests and welfare” of those under the commission.
Bandel Basilica Inspires Religious Harmony Across Faiths
The Basilica of the Holy Rosary, popularly known as Bandel Church in West Bengal, continues to attract thousands of pilgrims from different faiths, standing as
