“Convert Vision into Action,” Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão Urges National Leaders

Goa, 26 August 2025 – Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, President of the CCBI and the FABC, urged national leaders of the Church to “convert vision into action” as he inaugurated the Capacity Building Workshop for CCBI Commission Secretaries, Department Directors, and Coordinators of Apostolates.

“Walking together is not the task of a few, but a shared mission,” the Cardinal said, underscoring the collective responsibility of building a synodal Church in India. He called on leaders to remain rooted in Christ and to continually seek God’s guidance in carrying forward this mission of transformation.

The three-day workshop, held at Shanti Sadan, Goa, from 26 to 28 August, brought together 35 secretaries, coordinators, and directors to focus on pastoral planning, mission, and collaborative leadership.

The programme opened with the Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, alongside Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo of Udupi and Fr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI.

In his homily, Cardinal Ferrão reflected on authentic Christian witness, stressing patience, compassion, and humility as hallmarks of leadership. The Mass also marked two special milestones: the third anniversary of his elevation to the College of Cardinals and the 115th birth anniversary of St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Patron Saint of Communio.

Welcoming the participants, Fr. Alathara underlined the importance of such workshops in strengthening collaboration and fraternity within the Secretariat. Bishop Lobo emphasized that the Pastoral Plan must be a practical expression of Christ’s mission in today’s context, calling for unity and coordinated efforts across commissions.

The inaugural session concluded with an interactive dialogue between the Cardinal and participants. In the days ahead, the workshop will feature sessions on leadership development, collaborative planning, and mission-focused strategies, aimed at renewing clarity, unity, and commitment in serving the Church in India with missionary zeal.

Facilitators include Rev. Dr. Joe Xavier, Rev. Dr. Nigel Barrett, Rev. Dr. Christopher Vimalran, and Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo.

By Margarita Dias