Catholic Professionals Called to Put Expertise at Service of Society

KOTTAYAM, August 3, 2026: Kerala Water Resources Minister Mons Joseph has announced a ₹4,000-crore project to strengthen coastal protection in Kerala, while calling on professionals to use their expertise for the development and empowerment of society.

The Minister was speaking at the Professionals Conclave 2026 held at the Vimalagiri Pastoral Centre, Kottayam, on August 2 as part of the Silver Jubilee celebrations of the Kerala Region Latin Catholic Council, the apex policy-making and coordinating body of Kerala’s Latin Catholic community.

Announcing the coastal protection initiative, Mons Joseph said an urgent project would be implemented in 10 identified coastal hotspots. The government would also introduce a seawater desalination project to address the shortage of drinking water affecting coastal communities.

Highlighting the contribution of professionals to social development, the Minister said expertise from different fields was essential for addressing the challenges faced by society.

The conclave was presided over by Archbishop Varghese Chakkalakal, President of the Kerala Region Latin Catholic Council. In his presidential address, he urged Catholic professionals to become a Gospel presence among people who remain excluded from the benefits of development.

Bishop Sebastian Thekethecheril of Vijayapuram, Auxiliary Bishop Justin Madathiparambil of Vijayapuram, Kerala Region Latin Catholic Council Vice President Joseph Jude, General Secretary Fr. Jiju George Arakkathara and Secretary Matilda Michael also addressed the gathering.

Former Kerala Education Department Secretary and retired Indian Administrative Service officer Lida Jacob delivered the keynote address.

Several professionals presented papers during the conclave, including Dr. Martin Patrick, Adv. Sherry J Thomas, Dr. Manoj Kurissingal, Ignatius Munroe, Joy Sebastian, P R Kunjachan and Fr. A R John.

Hosted by the Diocese of Vijayapuram, the conclave was held under the theme “The Expertise and Skill of Professionals for the Empowerment and Advancement of Society.”

More than 300 Latin Catholic professionals participated in the event, representing fields including research, education, medicine, engineering, law, science, administration, entrepreneurship, journalism and social work.

The gathering sought to encourage professionals to move beyond their individual careers and place their knowledge, skills and experience at the service of communities, particularly those facing social and developmental challenges.

By Joseph Jude, KRLCC