Bishop Francis Serrao Inspires Children To Sow Good Seeds And Bear Good Fruits

26 October 2026 | Nirmala School, Mysuru. 

UPAASANA – “Sitting Near the Divine” 

The Diocese of Mysore, through its Commission for Faith Formation, organised UPAASANA – “Sitting Near the Divine,” a one-day faith formation camp for Catholic children of Classes VIII–X from Mysuru North and South Deaneries at Nirmala School, Mysuru. A total of 243 children participated in the camp, which aimed to strengthen their faith, deepen their relationship with Jesus, and promote Christian values. The programme was hosted by the CSST Sisters in collaboration with the Nirmala School Team.

Sow Good Seeds and Bear Good Fruits: Bishop Francis Serrao  

Most Rev. Dr. Francis Serrao, SJ, Bishop of Mysore, interacted with the children and delivered an inspiring message on equality, human dignity, mutual respect, and the importance of putting good values into practice. He emphasised that every person deserves equal dignity and respect and encouraged the children to build a society rooted in justice, peace, and fraternity.

The Bishop explained four important spiritual principles: Śravaṇa (listening), Manana (reflection), Nididhyāsana (internalisation), and Anuṣṭhāna (putting into practice). He encouraged the children not merely to listen to good teachings, but to reflect on them, internalise their meaning, and practise them in daily life. Using the imagery of seeds and fruits, the Bishop reminded the children that good seeds produce good fruits. He encouraged them to sow the seeds of love, kindness, honesty, prayer, discipline, and respect so that their lives would bear good fruits for their families, the Church, and society.

Sessions and Resource Persons

The camp featured spiritual, educational, and interactive sessions conducted by experienced resource persons. Sr. Lynette, CSST, led ice-breaking, integration, and synodality activities promoting friendship, teamwork, and participation. Rev. Fr. Cyril, SDB, guided the children in developing a personal relationship with Jesus, while Dr. Anthony, Principal of Chaya B.Ed. College, addressed essential life skills for adolescents. Sr. Anitha, CSST, encouraged vocational discernment, and Ms. Latha, CWC Member, Chamarajanagar, created awareness about children's safety, protection, rights, and responsibilities. Rev. Fr. Prasan, OCD, helped the children deepen their understanding of faith, prayer, and Christian living. Priests and religious sisters also shared their vocation experiences, inspiring the children to respond positively to God's call.

The sessions encouraged the 243 participants to grow spiritually, develop confidence, strengthen their Christian identity, and practise faith through service, responsibility, and mutual respect.

Gratitude and Conclusion

Special appreciation was extended to Sr. Beena, the headmistresses, teachers and staff of various schools, and the CSST convents in Mysuru city for their generous contributions, wholehearted cooperation, and support in providing the facilities, materials, and other necessities for the camp. Their generosity and dedicated service contributed significantly to the success of the programme.

The camp concluded at 4:30 p.m. with certificate distribution and a vote of thanks. UPAASANA provided a meaningful opportunity for the children to deepen their relationship with Jesus and put Christian values into practice in their everyday lives.

“Listen with attention, reflect with wisdom, internalise the truth, and practise goodness
so that your life may bear good fruits.”