“Empowered for Service: Parish and Diocesan Staff Conferred Diploma in Canon Law for A Synodal Church”

Staff members from the parish of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Butterworth, and the Penang Diocesan Staff were recently awarded the Diploma in Canon Law for a Synodal Church, marking an important milestone in their service to the Church.

The recipients of the diploma are Ms. Angeline Sinnappan and Ms. Joanne Robert, both from Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary/St. Chastan & Imbert Church, Ms. Anne Nah, and Ms. Jacinta Denis from the First Instance Ecclesiastical Tribunal of the Penang Diocese, and Ms. Rose Maria from the Penang Diocesan Archive.

The diplomas were presented by Rev. Fr. Dominic Santhiyagu during the 9.00 am Mass at the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Butterworth, on 15 March 2026. The presentation took place in the presence of parishioners, highlighting the Church’s encouragement for ongoing formation and deeper understanding of Canon Law among those serving in ecclesiastical ministries.

The diploma programme was organised by the Commission for Canon Law and Other Legislative Texts of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India. The course aims to equip participants with a stronger foundation in Canon Law, particularly within the context of a synodal Church that emphasizes collaboration, responsibility, and faithful service. Their achievement reflects a commitment to continued learning and to supporting the pastoral and administrative life of the Church.

May God continue to bless them as they carry out their responsibilities with renewed dedication, wisdom, and confidence in service to the Church.