NCBEC stresses Basic Human Communities as the need of the hour!

Nagpur, February 20, 2024: The CCBI Commission for BECs hosted the National Council for Basic Ecclesial Communities (NCBEC) on February 20–21, 2024 at the Pallottine Animation Center in Nagpur. Over 100 participants from 14 regions of India attended, including 6 bishops, priests, religious sisters, and a few lay delegates.

A model of Synodal Church was felt as there was the presence of lay people both men and women, religious, clergy and bishops, representing BECs of different corners of India. The theme chosen for the national council was to  “Enlarge the Space of Your Tent,” inspired by the vision of Pope Francis and his call to be the pilgrims of hope. 

The NCBEC tried to reflect on how to put Pope Francis’ vision into practice through extending the tents. Reflecting on the present scenario of India and the manner in which Christians are persecuted it is urgent to build Basic Human Communities and work along with them to build the Reign of God. Extending the tents includes revamping the organizational set up in the Church. They emphasized the need for structural change in the Church, shifting from a Church-centered or inward-looking Church to a missionary community or inclusive Church. 

The assembly also emphasized the importance of empowering lay leaders in the BECs, providing them with relevant formation and training to take up leadership roles to move towards an authentic Synodal Church. They agreed that the Church must de-centralize to allow people to be “The Church in the neighborhood.”

Broadening hearts, embracing all as brothers and sisters in humanity to be beacons of hope and love to promote peace and communion in the world.

Fr. George Jacob SAC

Executive Secretary, CCBI Commission for BECs