CODP and BEC Commission Host Think Tank Meeting to Empower Communities via Self-Help Groups

Rev. Dr Veeresh Moras Leads Think Tank on Building Vibrant Self-Help Networks

MANGALURU, JULY 20:A high-level Think Tank meeting focusing on the formation and strategic strengthening of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) was jointly organized by the Canara Organization for Development and Peace (CODP) and the Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC) Commission of the Diocese of Mangalore at Nainadu Parish within the Belthangady Deanery.

The primary focus of the session was to explore sustainable community empowerment, social responsibility, and grass-roots development. Rev. Dr Veeresh Victor Moras served as the key resource person for the event, detailing the core vision and practical execution strategies required to establish vibrant SHGs within local neighborhood communities.

Addressing the delegates, Rev. Dr Moras emphasized that integrating structured self-help initiatives within the framework of Basic Ecclesial Communities acts as a powerful catalyst for sustainable growth. He outlined definitive, actionable steps for animators to foster financial independence and mutual collaborative support among families at the parish level.

The event was held in the presence of Rev. Dr Sunil George D’Souza, Director of the BEC Commission, Rev. Fr Vincent D’Souza, Director of CODP, and Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Director of CODP. Other priests from the deanery including Fr Anil Avild Lobo, parish Priest, Nainad and members of the core Think Tank group actively participated in the deliberations.

​The Deanery Resource Team engaged in extensive planning and interactive discussion sessions. The meeting concluded with a concrete roadmap aimed at multiplying and monitoring the progress of these community-led groups across the entire Belthangady Deanery to ensure long-term, impactful development.