28th Indian Catechetical Association Conference Held in Meghalaya

Shillong, February 14, 2025 – The 28th Indian Catechetical Conference (ICA) was held at the Siloam Centre in Shillong, Meghalaya, from February 12 to 14, 2025, with the theme "Catechesis in and towards Prayer." Organised by the Indian Catechetical Association, the event brought together several priests, nuns and religious from across the country to discuss various topics related to catechesis and prayer.

The event opened with a thematic introduction, "An Alphabet of Prayer," presented by Rev. Dr. Gilbert Choondal SDB, Secretary of the ICA. Fr. George P., Director of the Siloam Centre, welcomed the attendees of the conference, while Fr. Choondal delivered the 2024 ICA report. A message from Sr. Lisa Chettri, Provincial of the Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians congregation, set the tone for the discussions, followed by an inaugural Eucharistic celebration led by Most Rev. Dr. Victor Lyngdoh, Archbishop of Shillong.

During the three days of the conference, several speakers presented papers on topics such as the ecclesial, biblical, and catechetical perspectives of prayer in the Church; catechesis focused on a prayerful Eucharist; prayer as a task of catechesis; family prayer and catechesis; catechesis on contemplative prayer; and catechesis on various forms and expressions of prayer. Participants also engaged in strategic planning through group workshops and observed a demonstration class.

Special sessions during the conference included Lectio Divina, a Bollywood prayer service, and an interaction with speech and hearing-impaired children. Attendees also participated in an experiential session, "A Walk through the Bible Garden," at the Siloam Bible Garden, where they deepened their understanding of the scriptural connections to catechesis.

Participants formulated a final statement and guidelines based on the papers presented during the conference. The event wrapped up with "Shillong Darshan," offering attendees a cultural and spiritual tour of the city.

By Fr. Vijay Machado