Catholic leaders, clergy, religious sisters and lay faithful from across India gathered in Bengaluru for the first National Synodal Assembly of the Conference of Catholic Bishops in India (CCBI), marking an important step in the Church's journey towards greater participation, collaboration and mission.
Held from 1st to 3rd May under the theme "Synodal Pilgrims of Hope", the assembly brought together around 220 delegates representing the Latin Rite Catholic community across India. The gathering focused on putting into practice key priorities outlined in the Church's National Pastoral Plan 2024, known as Mission 2033.
The pastoral plan emerged from years of consultation at parish, diocesan and national levels and seeks to strengthen the Church's mission in response to contemporary challenges. Among its major priorities are increasing the involvement of women and young people in leadership, encouraging greater participation by lay Catholics, reaching communities on the margins, promoting interfaith harmony and fostering more collaborative forms of leadership.
During the assembly, participants discussed several important issues facing the Church and society. These included strengthening relations with people of other faiths, supporting marginalised communities such as Dalits and Adivasis, investing in the spiritual and social development of children and young people, and responding to poverty and environmental concerns.
One notable feature of the gathering was its effort to encourage wider participation. Lay Catholics made up nearly half of those present, while women and young leaders were also included in discussions. Delegates sat together regardless of rank or role, creating an atmosphere that encouraged open dialogue and mutual listening.
Speaking about the event, the conference leadership highlighted the spirit of prayerful discernment, respect and humility that characterised the discussions. Participants were encouraged to share their views freely and work together in seeking God's direction for the future of the Church in the country.
Several recommendations emerged from the assembly. Delegates called for stronger engagement with people of different faiths through dialogue, shared community activities and educational programmes. They also urged greater inclusion of communities that often experience discrimination or exclusion, with proposals aimed at ensuring their participation in pastoral life and decision-making processes.
The assembly further emphasised the importance of safeguarding children, strengthening faith formation for families and empowering young people to take active roles within the Church. Recommendations included improved vocational guidance, leadership development and digital literacy initiatives for youth.
On social concerns, participants highlighted the need to address poverty through education, employment opportunities and fair working conditions. Church institutions were encouraged to uphold labour rights and provide support for vulnerable families and communities.
Environmental stewardship also featured prominently. Delegates called for greater awareness of creation care through faith-based education and practical initiatives. Church communities were encouraged to adopt environmentally responsible practices while supporting those most affected by climate-related challenges.
At the same time, some participants noted that challenges remain. Although women and young people were recognised as priorities, they were still underrepresented compared with clergy and religious leaders. Calls were made for greater involvement of women and youth in leadership and decision-making structures at every level of Church life.
Others stressed the importance of ensuring that voices from marginalised communities are directly represented in future consultations and assemblies. Many participants agreed that meaningful change will require more than policy statements, calling instead for measurable goals, clear accountability and dedicated resources.
Church leaders indicated that the recommendations from the assembly will now be carried forward through pastoral programmes, local consultations and ongoing formation initiatives. The process will also include regular reviews aimed at ensuring that the vision of Mission 2033 is translated into practical action throughout the country.
As the Catholic Church in India continues its synodal journey, leaders expressed hope that greater collaboration, participation and shared responsibility will help strengthen the Church's witness and mission in the years ahead.
Adapted and rewritten from original reporting by UCA News.
