Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, Cardinal Leopoldo Girelli, on Tuesday advocated for sharing the message of love, kindness and selfless service in every field of society.

Leopoldo Girelli, 69, who is considered an ambassador of the Vatican City, in his first visit to Jharkhand, attended the Conference of Diocesan Priests of India (CDPI) in Ranchi on Tuesday, followed by a visit to St Albert’s College and thereafter attended a mass at St Mary’s Church.

CDPI, an organisation of diocesan priests of India, is hosting its 19th national council from February 14 to 17 in Ranchi. Addressing students, Leopoldo Girelli said: “Training should be devoted to human values, intellectual development, cultural upliftment and spiritual progress. Every student should make continuous efforts for the development of their personality.”

The Italian prelate of the Catholic Church also said that in the current scenario, the teaching of Jesus Christ holds relevance. “If we are able to know Jesus Christ closely and also know His teachings of love, service, kindness and divine experience, we should share them with others in the society as it is much needed at this moment,” he said.

Further, referring to the message given by Saint Pope Francis, Leopoldo said: “We should adopt attributes like love, goodwill and forgiveness and also do charitable work and make efforts in healing the physical and emotional wounds of others. There should be a spirit of selfless service while moving forward on the path of knowledge, dedication and discipline.”

There are 132 Latin Catholic dioceses in India and more than 20,000 diocesan clergies working in these dioceses attending to the spiritual and educational needs of people.

In 2023, the CDPI delegates have taken the theme of knowing and experiencing more of Jharkhand society and culture.

The diocesan clergies will be going out to various parishes located in villages of Jharkhand to understand the culture, and lifestyle of rural Jharkhand.