Archbishop Machado Urges CCBI Delegates to Follow Christ, the True Way

Bengaluru, May 2, 2026: Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore called on delegates attending the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) National Assembly to remain firmly rooted in Christ, describing Him as "the way" who leads the Church on its synodal journey. Presiding over the Eucharistic celebration on the second day of the national assembly, Archbishop Machado invited bishops, clergy, religious, and laity to walk together as pilgrims of hope, inspired by Pope Francis' vision of a synodal Church.

Delivering the homily during the morning Mass, the Archbishop reflected on the essence of synodality, emphasizing that the Church is called to journey together as one community of faith. "Inspired by Pope Francis, we are here as pilgrims," he said, reminding the assembly that walking together must become the defining character of the Church in India.

He challenged the gathering with a fundamental question: "Where are we journeying to?" Drawing inspiration from the disciples on the road to Emmaus, Archbishop Machado noted that Christ always accompanies His people, even in moments of uncertainty and confusion. Just as Jesus walked alongside the troubled disciples, He continues to journey with the Church today.

The Archbishop also focused on the Church's mission to the poor and marginalized. Acknowledging the harsh realities faced by many across the country, he urged the delegates to remain attentive to those living on the peripheries. He called on the assembly to reflect seriously on how the Church can better include the excluded and respond to the poverty of the people.

Reflecting on the Gospel, Archbishop Machado highlighted Jesus' words, "I am the way." He explained that the path to the Father is found only through Christ, who is one with the Father. For the Church, he said, every mission, decision, and journey must begin and end in Jesus.

To illustrate this point, he recounted an anecdote about an explorer travelling through Africa. When the path ahead became unclear, the explorer turned to his trusted servant and asked where the way lay. The servant replied, "I am the way." The story, Archbishop Machado said, serves as a powerful reminder that Christ Himself is the path the Church must follow.

He further recalled the missionary zeal of St. Paul, who turned to the Gentiles after many among his own people rejected the Gospel. Though opposition arose and others sought to create divisions, Paul remained steadfast because he knew that Jesus was the way for all people, especially those who had long been excluded.

Archbishop Machado concluded by encouraging the delegates to keep their eyes fixed on Christ throughout the synodal process. He entrusted the assembly to the loving intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, asking her to guide the Church in recognizing its goals and faithfully fulfilling its mission.

The CCBI National Assembly continues in Bengaluru with bishops, priests, religious, and lay faithful from across India discerning together the future path of the Church in the country.

By Catholic Connect Reporter