Kerala Church Advances ‘Womb to Tomb’ Catechesis Vision

Kannur, February 23, 2026 — Catechetical leaders from across Kerala convened in Kannur on February 23 to evaluate and advance the implementation of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India Pastoral Plan: Mission 2033, with a renewed focus on lifelong faith formation.

The Kerala Region Faith Formation Commission meeting brought together 20 delegates, including 13 diocesan secretaries, for a day of training, evaluation, and strategic planning. Participants examined how the national pastoral vision can be effectively contextualised within Kerala’s pastoral realities.

The programme was inaugurated by Bishop Alex Vadakkumthala, who called for a shift from child-centred catechesis to a holistic formation model that accompanies believers “from womb to tomb.” In his keynote address, he encouraged deeper engagement with Sacred Scripture, active participation in the Eucharist, and renewed Marian devotion, while unveiling the catechetical theme for 2026.

Technical sessions were led by Fr. Vijay Machado, Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Faith Formation, who guided a structured review of ongoing initiatives under Mission 2033. He commended Kerala’s practice of rotating monthly meetings across dioceses, noting that the model has strengthened collaboration and unity among diocesan leaders. He also emphasised integrating the pastoral plan into diocesan and parish-level structures to support formation across all stages of life.

The meeting reviewed national and global initiatives, including preparations for World Children’s Day 2026 at the Vatican, promotion of YOUCAT-based study sessions, and upcoming programmes such as the National Catechetical Conference in October 2026 and the Catechetical Directors’ Course scheduled for June in Goa.

In response to directives from National Catechetical Conference, the Commission also explored digital evangelisation strategies. A structured proposal for Digital Catechism, presented by John Jeffin, outlined the development of interactive media tools for wider pastoral use. During the gathering, Boban C. was felicitated for his technical contributions to catechetical initiatives and for receiving the Ministry of Permanent Catechist from Pope Leo XIV.

The meeting concluded with regional planning sessions aimed at integrating the 2026 catechetical theme into parish programmes, classrooms, and community life across Kerala. Church leaders described the Kannur gathering as a significant step in strengthening collaboration and advancing a comprehensive vision of faith formation for the future.

By Catholic Connect Reporter