Mangaluru: The Christian community of Mangaluru gathered at the Bishop Jathanna Auditorium, Karnataka Theological College (KTC), Balmatta, to commemorate the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed — a foundational declaration of Christian faith and unity. The ecumenical celebration, themed “Celebrating Faith that Unites Us,” was jointly organised by the Ecumenical Commission of the Diocese of Mangalore, the Mangalore Christian Council, the All Karnataka United Christian Forum for Human Rights, St Joseph Inter-Diocesan Seminary, Jeppu, and Karnataka Theological College.
The programme was presided over by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore. Rev. Fr Rupesh Madtha, Secretary of the Ecumenical Commission and Mangalore Christian Council, welcomed the assembly, following which dignitaries inaugurated the event by lighting the ceremonial lamp — a gesture symbolising shared faith and collective witness.
Theological insight: The power of “We”
Delivering the first keynote address, Rev. Dr Prof. Dexter S. Maben, Presbyter of the CSI-Karnataka Central Diocese and Visiting Professor at United Theological College (UTC), Bengaluru, offered a thought-provoking exploration of the Nicene Creed’s historical roots and enduring relevance.
He underscored the collective phrase “We believe” as a countercultural affirmation of unity in an increasingly individualistic world, emphasising its theological, ecclesiological, and ecumenical significance.
The Creed as identity and foundation
Rev. Dr Alexander Kalarikkal, Director of St Joseph’s Institute of Theology, Jeppu, reflected on the Creed’s role as a cornerstone of Christian doctrine and identity. He highlighted that the teachings of the Church Fathers embedded within the Creed continue to uphold the Church’s mission as the custodian of faith through generations.
A Creed for all time
In his presidential address, Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha reaffirmed the Nicene Creed’s timeless value and unbroken legacy, saying,
“The great and unique Creed preserved by the Church down the ages cannot be suppressed. It will be preserved for eternity, for ever and ever.”
His message resonated deeply with the audience, serving as a call to unity, reverence, and continuity of faith.
Ecumenical leadership and participation
The event drew strong participation from leaders representing various Christian denominations, showcasing a vibrant spirit of unity. Among those present were Rt Rev. Hemachandra Kumar, Bishop of the CSI Karnataka Southern Diocese; Most Rev. Dr James Patteril, Bishop-elect of the Syro-Malabar Diocese of Belthangady; Rev. Fr S. Charles, Diocesan Vicar, Believers Eastern Church; Rev. Prabhuraj M of the CSI fraternity; Rev. Goldin Bangera, ecumenical collaborator; and Dr Sebastian K.V., noted scholar and professor.
The newly elected Bishop of Belthangady, Most Rev. Dr James Patteril, was felicitated by the organisers. Rev. Dr H. M. Watson, Principal of Karnataka Theological College, moderated the proceedings with scholarly grace and depth.
Commitment to Christian fellowship
The gathering saw active participation from seminarians, clergy, religious sisters, and lay faithful from both St Joseph Inter-Diocesan Seminary (Jeppu) and Karnataka Theological College (Balmatta), symbolising shared commitment to ecumenical dialogue and Christian unity.
The event concluded with a cultural performance by students from participating institutions, followed by a vote of thanks delivered by Rev. Dr Rajesh Rosario, Rector of St Joseph Seminary, Jeppu, who expressed gratitude to all contributors and reaffirmed the importance of continued ecumenical collaboration.
