CCBI Calls for Coordinated Action to Implement Pastoral Plan

BHOPAL, October 29, 2025: The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) has called for stronger coordination among dioceses and regional bodies to translate its Pastoral Plan into concrete initiatives that promote communion, participation and mission.

The call was made during a Pastoral Plan Implementation Programme held at the Pastoral Centre in Bhopal under the theme “Together for a Synodal Church – Communion, Participation and Mission.” The programme brought together diocesan coordinators and regional secretaries to review implementation efforts, share experiences and identify ways to strengthen pastoral initiatives.

Opening the programme, Bishop Durairaj of Bhopal urged participants to move beyond treating the Pastoral Plan as a policy document and embrace it as a shared vision for renewing the Church’s pastoral life. He stressed the need to translate its objectives into practical action at diocesan and regional levels.

Bishop Gerald Lobo, chairman of the CCBI Pastoral Plan Implementation Committee, led the sessions examining the plan’s vision, development and implementation. The presentation “From Mandate to Mission” focused on turning the Church’s pastoral responsibilities into programmes that respond to the spiritual and social needs of the faithful.

Another session explored the process behind the CCBI Pastoral Plan, highlighting consultation, coordinated planning, shared responsibility and systematic follow-up as essential to its implementation.

Drawing on the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, a session titled “Faith in Action – Jesus’ Pastoral Plan” called for pastoral initiatives rooted in compassion, service, inclusion and accompaniment. Participants were encouraged to apply these principles to the needs of individuals, families and communities.

A screening of the documentary “Fruits of the Pastoral Plan” showcased experiences and outcomes from its implementation. Diocesan coordinators and regional secretaries subsequently shared their initiatives, achievements and challenges, providing an opportunity to exchange good practices and explore approaches suited to different local contexts.

The concluding discussions focused on strengthening implementation mechanisms, conducting regular reviews and monitoring progress. Participants also stressed the importance of sharing successful initiatives and building stronger networks among dioceses and regions.

The programme underscored that the Pastoral Plan’s success depends on the sustained commitment of dioceses, regional bodies, pastoral commissions and the faithful. Effective implementation, participants noted, requires collective responsibility and a willingness to translate the Church’s mission into concrete service.

The gathering concluded with a renewed call to build a more participatory and mission-oriented Church, rooted in communion and responsive to the needs of the people.

By Catholic Connect Reporter