Ecumenical Lenten Retreat in Secunderabad Witnesses Strong Expression of Christian Unity

Secunderabad, March 24, 2026: In a moving witness to Christian unity during the Lenten season, more than 250 faithful from various denominations gathered on March 23 for an Ecumenical Lenten Retreat at Good Shepherd Church, Medchal. The event highlighted a shared commitment to spiritual renewal and deeper communion across ecclesial traditions.

The retreat was jointly organised by the CCBI Commission for Ecumenism, the Telugu Catholic Bishops Council (TCBC) Commission for Ecumenism, the Federation of Telugu Churches (FTC), the Good Shepherd Church of India, and the Archdiocese of Hyderabad. It brought together bishops, priests, pastors, religious, and lay faithful in a spirit of prayer, reflection, and dialogue.

Conducted in both English and Telugu, the service reflected the inclusive and participatory character of the gathering. Leaders from different Churches took part in the liturgical moments, while a choir led the faithful in reflective hymns, fostering a prayerful Lenten atmosphere.

The retreat was enriched by the reflections of Bishop Anthony Das, Chairman of the TCBC Commission for Ecumenism and FTC, who called on participants to embrace faithfulness and fruitfulness during Lent. Drawing inspiration from Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross, he urged the faithful to desire Christ more deeply, seek the good of others, and live out compassion in daily life.

Complementing this message, Bishop Josh Lawrence D’Souza of the Central Diocese of the Good Shepherd Church of India reflected on the theme, “Christ, the Source of Eternal Life.” Rooted in Sacred Scripture, the witness of St. John the Apostle, and the teachings of the Church Fathers, he emphasised that eternal life springs from a personal relationship with Christ rather than mere observance of laws. He encouraged participants to seek what is above and remain open to ongoing spiritual renewal.

As the retreat unfolded, representatives from various denominations shared messages underscoring the importance of ecumenical collaboration and the collective Christian responsibility to bear witness to unity in a divided world.

The gathering served as a powerful reminder that, despite doctrinal differences, a shared faith in Christ continues to foster dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect among Christian communities.

By Catholic Connect Reporter