Fr Rakesh Mathias completed his Licentiate in Biblical Theology
Fr Rakesh Mathias CSsR has successfully completed his Licentiate in Biblical Theology at St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute, Bangalore. His thesis, “Between Now and Then: Patience and Hope as Explored in the Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds (Mt 13:24-30), and its Implications for the Church,” delves into a deeper theological examination of one of Jesus’ most thought-provoking parables. The work explores the interim period between the present reality and the eschatological fulfilment, emphasizing the virtues of patience and hope as crucial for Christian life and the mission of the Church.
Under the expert guidance of Rev. Dr. Assisi Saldanha, CSsR, and the valuable co-moderation of Rev. Dr. Lucien Legrand, MEP, this thesis offers significant insights into the practical application of this parable to contemporary ecclesial challenges. The study highlights how the parable of the wheat and the weeds calls the Church to patient endurance, acknowledging the coexistence of good and evil in the world until the final harvest, while fostering an active hope in God’s ultimate triumph. This academic journey culminated on June 21, 2025, when Fr Rakesh Mathias was awarded his Licentiate degree by Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore at the convocation ceremony held at St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute.
We congratulate Fr Rakesh on this achievement and wish God’s blessings in his future endeavours, especially as the Prefect of Theology Students at Mt St Alphonsus, Bangalore.
Fr. Juvance Serrao completed his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.)
Fr Juvance Serrao CSsR has successfully completed his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from Agnel School of Law in Vashi, Navi Mumbai, India. Over the three-year program, he explored various aspects of the law and gained valuable exposure to courtroom proceedings. The moot court facilities provided him with practical insights through simulated real-life legal situations, enhancing his understanding of the judicial process.
During his studies, Fr Juvance had opportunities to participate in debates and other co-curricular activities that broadened his horizons and deepened his perspective on legal issues in the country. Studying in a secular institute also allowed him to engage with students from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds, offering him a richer appreciation of the realities and viewpoints of people from different walks of life.
We congratulate Fr Juvance Serrao on successfully completing his LL.B. He is currently serving as the Assistant Parish Priest at OLPS Church, Chembur. He is also actively involved in animating the youth in their faith and in the migrant ministry of the Vice Province of Majella. We pray for God’s continued blessings upon him as he uses his legal knowledge to serve the most vulnerable and those in need of justice and support.
Fr. Shane Varghese, CSsR.
Secretary of the V. Province of Majella, India.
