CRI Priests’ Assembly Calls for Prophetic Witness and Synodal Engagement in Guwahati

Guwahati, February 8, 2026:

The General Plenary Assembly of the Conference of Religious India (CRI) – Priests’ Section concluded in Guwahati with a call for renewed prophetic witness, synodal collaboration and ethical engagement in a rapidly changing social context.

Held from February 3 to 5 at the Don Bosco Institute, the assembly brought together 45 major superiors from across the country. The participants issued a final statement outlining key priorities for consecrated priests in India.

The assembly stressed the importance of the Church’s collective and prophetic witness amid social fragmentation, intolerance and challenges to constitutional values. It called for closer collaboration among consecrated priests, diocesan clergy, lay faithful and religious congregations as a sign of communion and shared mission.

Reaffirming the Church’s commitment to synodality, the statement highlighted listening, shared discernment and co-responsibility, with emphasis on joint pastoral planning and coordinated social outreach with local dioceses.

The assembly also underscored the need for renewed formation—both initial and ongoing—integrating spiritual depth, intellectual engagement, emotional maturity and community life, with particular attention to the formation of young religious.

Participants highlighted concerns for the mental health and wellbeing of consecrated persons and diocesan clergy, recommending structured support and professional interventions. The statement further called for responsible engagement with new media to promote truth, dialogue, justice and human dignity, while urging discernment on emerging ethical challenges related to Artificial Intelligence.

Rooted in the Gospel and India’s constitutional vision, the assembly reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to an inclusive, mission-centred identity, especially in solidarity with the poor, the marginalised and tribal communities.

The statement concluded by urging consecrated priests to move beyond clericalism and institutional self-preservation and to embrace a renewed prophetic witness grounded in prayer, fraternity and courageous service.

The final statement was issued on February 6 by Fr. Saju Chackalackal CMI, President of the CRI, on behalf of the assembly participants.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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