CCBI Commission for Ecumenism Charts National Plan

Bengaluru, 28 November 2025 — Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) Commission for Ecumenism held its annual meeting at Subodhana – Karnataka Regional Pastoral Centre, bringing together office bearers, National Council members, and regional secretaries to reflect on the significance of ecumenism in India and to finalise the action plan for implementing the Commission’s pastoral mission in the coming year.

The gathering opened with an ecumenical prayer for Christian unity based on the 2025 Week of Prayer theme, “Do you believe this?” , set within the context of the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. Fr Denis Dsa led the service, which emphasised unity of faith and shared witness. 

In the keynote address, Bishop Francis Serrao S.J., Chairman of the Commission, highlighted the growing need for collaboration among Christian communities in the country. He stressed that the Commission is called to strengthen fellowship, shared prayer and coordinated outreach in an increasingly challenging context. 

Discussions focused on Christian prayer for India, the relevance of Nicaea for unity today, and the creation of United Christian Forums in every diocese. Reports from across the country were reviewed before participants finalised the next year’s pastoral plan to advance ecumenical awareness and cooperation. 

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to sensitise the faithful to the importance of Christian unity and to collaborate with other CCBI Commissions, particularly those for youth, women and laity, in strengthening common mission and witness.

By Fr. Anthaiah Kondaveeti

Executive Secretary, CCBI Commission for Ecumenism