Jamshedpur Diocese Gathers to Chart Synodal Path Towards Mission 2033

Sundernagar, July 23, 2025 — In a spirit of unity and discernment, the Catholic Diocese of Jamshedpur convened a significant synodal assembly at Janvikas Kendra, Sundernagar on July 21. The gathering brought together 52 participants, including Bishop Telesphore Bilung S.V.D., parish priests, religious sisters, and lay faithful, alongside the Diocesan Synodal Implementation Team. Anchored in the apostolic vision of walking by faith and not by sight (2 Cor 5:7), the assembly aimed to deepen the diocese's journey towards Mission 2033.

The central theme of the meeting revolved around the question shaping the national pastoral renewal: “Where is God calling the Church to be by 2033?” This question, guiding the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), served as the spiritual compass for the day’s discernment and strategic discussions.

With a focus on embracing synodality through communion, participation, and mission, the gathering sought to make the synodal journey more transformative at the grassroots. Participants acknowledged their collective calling to become salt and light to the world, living out Christ’s mission through authentic synodal living. Pope Leo XIV's affirmation of synodality as “a style, an attitude that helps us to be Church” was a key point of reflection.

Fr. Christopher Vimalraj, Associate Deputy from the CCBI, Bangalore, served as the principal facilitator. He offered the participants a comprehensive understanding of the theological and pastoral foundations of the synodal process. Drawing from insights raised during the 36th CCBI Plenary Assembly in Bhubaneswar, Fr. Christopher addressed contemporary concerns and encouraged participants to take concrete action rooted in synodal spirituality.

The day prioritised spiritual conversation over academic discourse, fostering sacred space for genuine discernment. This approach enabled participants to listen deeply to the Holy Spirit’s promptings and to explore practical pathways for implementing the pastoral plan within the diocese’s unique contexts.

At the heart of the discussions was the integration of the final document on synodality, with its emphasis on revitalised missionary engagement. The participants deliberated on how collaborative leadership, shared responsibility, and inclusive decision-making could shape diocesan strategies, ensuring they respond effectively to both local needs and the broader national mission.

The dialogue also addressed key issues highlighted during the Bhubaneswar Assembly, ensuring diocesan implementation efforts align with current realities facing the Indian Church. Attention was given to strengthening evangelisation, community outreach, and pastoral responsiveness across cultural and social settings.

Through the process of guided spiritual conversations, participants moved beyond identifying challenges to discerning implementable solutions. These included strategies for both diocesan and parish-level action, grounded in participatory leadership and a commitment to the Church’s transformative mission in Indian society.

As the assembly concluded, there was a palpable sense of renewed purpose. Participants left with greater clarity on their roles in Mission 2033 and a deepened commitment to leading as pilgrims of hope. The event successfully bridged national vision and local action, laying the groundwork for a more synodal and missionary Church in Jamshedpur.

This collaborative initiative reflects the synodal journey’s essence—translating pastoral vision into lived reality. It echoes Pope Leo XIV’s insight that synodality is not merely a process but a way of being Church, fostering communion, participation, and mission in the heart of every ministry.

Jamshedpur Diocese Gathers to Chart Synodal Path Towards Mission 2033

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