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By Fr Julio Motta, SDB

Tíbar, Timor-Leste, 23 August 2019 -- A seminar on canonical cases in Matrimony and related issues was held from 21-23 August, at the Centro Educativo run by the Sisters of the Escravas da Santíssima Eucaristia e da Mãe de Deus (Slaves of the Blessed Sacrament and the Mother of God) in Tíbar.

This seminar was attended by parish priests, those in charge of schools and the so-called baby priests. It was a privileged occasion of learning and awakening the spirit of service for the Church and God’s people. This seminar was facilitated by Fr. Purbo, a diocesan priest of the Archdiocese of Jakarta and at the same time an expert in Canon Law. During the three days, the facilitator shared his experiences of handling the cases and most importantly on how to accompany couples. He emphasized a well-organised administrative function as a form of service which is animated by the spirit of helping, pastoral care toward the couples. Some participants shared their pastoral experiences from different parishes entrusted to the Salesians. From the sharing of experiences, as emphasized by Fr. Purbo, every priest should try his best to become an appreciative and joyful servant, whose witness is carrying blessings and siding with the weak.

Thus, God’s mercy should be shown to the people in their various limitations of life, particularly in family life, so they can continue their journey of life with joy and conviction.

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