Bihar priests renew missionary commitment through formation and fraternity

Patna, August 14, 2026: Seventy-one priests representing six dioceses of Bihar gathered at the Regional Pastoral Centre, Nav Jyoti, Patna, on August 13–14 for a two-day seminar and renewal programme organised by the Conference of Diocesan Priests of India (CDPI), Bihar Region.

The programme focused on ongoing priestly formation, spiritual renewal, emotional well-being and strengthening fraternal communion among diocesan priests.

Archbishop Sebastian Kallupura, Patron of CDPI Bihar Region, participated throughout the programme and stressed the importance of continual renewal in enabling priests to live their vocation and mission more fully.

Jesuit priest Fr. Jerry Rosario, who served as resource person, led interactive sessions on missionary identity and priestly effectiveness, the joy of priesthood, evangelisation amid contemporary challenges, and renewal and mission. Through discussions and participatory activities, he encouraged the priests to renew their missionary zeal and remain open to transformation in their pastoral ministry.

The participants reflected on the Church’s synodal mission and its call to contribute to a more just and compassionate society. Discussions also addressed the broader dimensions of justice, including gender, economic, political, cultural, religious, ideological, environmental and social concerns, in the light of the biblical vision of “a new heaven and a new earth.”

Prayer, Eucharistic adoration and the celebration of the Holy Eucharist formed an important part of the gathering, providing opportunities for spiritual renewal and strengthening fraternity.

During sharing sessions, the priests reflected on their call to joyful ministry and creative pastoral service in a synodal Church. The reflection was inspired by the late Pope Francis’ words, “I am a mission.”

The gathering also provided an opportunity to plan future CDPI initiatives. Priests were divided according to their years of ministry and developed action plans addressing ongoing formation, spiritual renewal, emotional well-being and the strengthening of fraternal relationships.

The programme was coordinated by Fr. Sahaya Raj of the Diocese of Purnea, Secretary of CDPI Bihar Region.

At the conclusion of the programme, the organisers expressed appreciation to Fr. Jerry Rosario for his guidance, Archbishop Sebastian Kallupura for his continued encouragement and the Nav Jyoti Niketan community for providing a conducive environment for prayer, fraternity and formation.

By Fr. Anil Benet Cruz,

Diocese of Buxar