North India’s Catholic Bishops Commit to Environmental Action at Regional Meet

JALANDHAR, 17 March, 2025 – Catholic bishops and lay representatives from across North India gathered for the bi-annual Regional Catholic Council of the North (RCCN) meeting on 15-16 March 2025 at Gianodaya, Lidhran, Jalandhar. Themed "Pilgrims of Hope: Cry of the Mother Earth (Laudato Si')," the event focused on ecological responsibility and concrete action plans for environmental conservation.

Most Reverend Bishop Agnelo Gracias, Apostolic Administrator of Jalandhar, welcomed the RCCN members. Environmental experts Dr. Haridas and Sr. Jyothisha, SND, led thought-provoking sessions on Laudato Si’, highlighting the urgent need for ecological preservation. Inspired by these discussions, each diocese outlined specific action plans to promote sustainability. To mark their commitment, the bishops planted a tree on the Pastoral Centre campus, symbolising their pledge to care for creation.

Presiding over the meeting, Most Reverend Archbishop Anil Joseph T. Couto urged the Regional Commission Secretaries to organise at least two regional-level programmes annually to strengthen their initiatives. The gathering reinforced the spirit of unity and commitment to environmental stewardship.

By Fr. Antony Thuruthiyil 

Deputy Secretary, RCCN