Formation Programme for Priests from Agra region Held in Prayagraj, U.P.

Prayagraj, Sept. 18, 2025: Ninety-two young priests from the Agra region participated in a three-day ongoing formation programme held at the Bishop’s House in Prayagraj from September 16 to 18. The refresher course, themed “Inculcating Mission Dimensions in the Pastoral Engagements of the Diocesan Clergy – Mission 2033”, was jointly organised by the CCBI Commission for Vocations, Seminaries, Clergy, and Religious (VSCR) and the Agra Regional Priests' Council (ARPC) under the leadership of Fr. Ronald Tellis, President of ARPC.

In his inaugural address, Bishop Louis Mascarenhas of Allahabad Diocese reminded the clergy that they embody both the present and the future of the Church’s mission. He also urged them to “be shepherds of hope and builders of communities”. 

Sessions during the three-day programme were facilitated by the CCBI Commissions for Migrants and Media in collaboration with the CCBI Commission for VSCR. Resource persons for the programme included Frs. Charles Leon, Jaison Vadassery, and Cyril Victor. A spiritual conversation on discerning the diocesan clergy’s mission by 2033 helped participants to identify new pathways for ministry and diocesan renewal.

The programme focused on three dimensions—personal life, pastoral ministry, and diocesan administration. Priests reflected on challenges they faced, such as loneliness, spiritual dryness, and administrative demands. They also identified solutions such as deepening prayer life, fostering fraternity, empowering the laity, and strengthening ties with diocesan leadership.

Interactive enactments of pastoral challenges and best practices by the priests enriched the learning process, offering practical learnings for future ministry. 

The Eucharist on the final day of the programme was held at St. Joseph’s Regional Seminary, Prayagraj, the alma mater of the priests. Bishop Mascarenhas presided over the Mass as the main celebrant, joined by the participants. 

Friendly football and basketball matches with seminarians further strengthened fraternity and camaraderie.

The programme concluded with a collective commitment by the young clergy to live as joyful shepherds of hope and builders of vibrant Christian communities.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

Download the Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates:

Android: Click here to download

iOS: Click here to download