Posted On: 29 August, 2025

The Don Bosco Theological Centre (DBTC), Kavarapettai, hosted a one-day Theological Symposium on the theme “Nicaea 325: Legacy and Relevance”. This intellectually and spiritually enriching event was organized by the third-year theology students under the able guidance of Rev. Fr. Christopher Joseph Xavier SDB and Rev. Dr. Stanley Jayakumar SDB, aiming to explore the historical importance and contemporary relevance of the Council of Nicaea.

The event commenced with an inaugural prayer service that set a reverent and reflective tone for the day. Rev. Dr. Emmanuel SDB, Director of DBTC, delivered the welcome address and felicitated the guests, highlighting the symposium’s significance in engaging with foundational aspects of Christian doctrine. The keynote speaker, Rev. Fr. Christopher Joseph Xavier SDB, professor at DBTC, presented on the theological and ecclesial legacy of the Council of Nicaea and its enduring role in shaping the Church’s understanding of Christological and Trinitarian doctrines.

The symposium had four sessions. The first session began with the talk by Rev. Dr. Mahimai Dass A., SDB, professor at Kristu Jyoti College – Bengaluru, who presented a comprehensive historical background of the Council of Nicaea, exploring the political, doctrinal, and pastoral factors that led to its convocation. The second session was handled by Rev. Dr. Vincent Raj John Bosco SDB, professor, Registrar and secretary at Studium Theologicum Salesianum, Jerusalem, who focused on the “The Legacy Nicaea in Athanasius: Defender of Eternal Son and the Faith of the Church”, underlining the pivotal role of St. Athanasius in defending Nicene orthodoxy against Arianism. A panel discussion moderated by Rev. Dr. John Richard SDB offered an opportunity for deeper engagement and questions from participants, contributing to a vibrant theological discourse.

The third session started with the talk by Rev. Dr. Xavier Terrence, professor at St. Paul’s Seminary - Trichy, on “The Relevance of Nicaea in the Present Era,” emphasizing how the Nicene Creed continues to serve as a unifying statement of faith in a context marked by theological diversity and modern challenges. This was followed second panel discussion led by Rev. Dr. Lourdusamy SDB which further unpacked the theme and facilitated thoughtful dialogue among the speakers and audience.

The final session was marked by the release of a book related to the symposium’s theme, a symbolic gesture of the event’s scholarly spirit. Rev. Dr. Stanley Jayakumar SDB, Registrar of DBTC, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the speakers, organizers, and participants for their contributions. The theological symposium concluded by professing the Nicene Creed.

The symposium was a meaningful and memorable event that brought together historical insight, theological depth, and ecclesial reflection. It successfully highlighted the enduring legacy of the Council of Nicaea and its relevance for contemporary Christian thought and practice, while also showcasing the academic commitment and pastoral sensitivity of the Don Bosco Theological Centre.