North Region Empowers Catechists with YOUCAT and Synodal Training; Hindi YOUCAT Released

Chandigarh, January 18, 2026:

In a significant step toward strengthening and modernising faith formation, the CCBI Commission for Faith Formation organised a regional training and orientation programme for catechists and youth leaders at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Chandigarh. The programme focused on YOUCAT and synodal approaches in catechesis, bringing together 15 key representatives from the dioceses of Simla-Chandigarh, Delhi, Jalandhar, and Jammu-Srinagar.

The training programme was conducted under the guidance of the Commission’s Chairman, Fr. Sahaya Thatheus Thomas, Bishop of Simla-Chandigarh Diocese, and coordinated under the leadership of Fr. John Vianey, Regional Secretary, ensuring that the sessions responded to the pastoral realities and needs of the North Region.

Fr. Vijay Machado, Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Faith Formation and Director of YOUCAT India, served as the resource person for the programme. In his sessions, he introduced participants to the dialogical methodology of YOUCAT, highlighting a shift from conventional classroom instruction to a participatory and journey-based approach. He emphasised that this method fosters meaningful conversation, accompaniment, and deeper engagement, especially among today’s youth.

Participants actively took part in interactive workshops that introduced synodal techniques in catechesis, encouraging catechists to “walk together” with learners and listen attentively to their experiences of faith. A major highlight of the programme was the official release of the Hindi edition of YOUCAT for the North Region, marking an important milestone in making faith resources more accessible and culturally relevant.

The programme concluded with the preparation of a regional action plan aimed at effectively implementing YOUCAT and synodal methodologies across northern dioceses. Participants expressed great joy and renewed enthusiasm, describing the training as “the need of the hour” and affirming that the interactive approach of YOUCAT is essential for engaging the younger generation. Many also voiced the need for longer and more frequent training programmes in the future.

The day culminated in a concelebrated Holy Eucharist, followed by a fellowship lunch, bringing the programme to a prayerful and joyful conclusion and marking a meaningful step forward in the mission of the CCBI Commission for Faith Formation in Northern India.

— By Catholic Connect News Reporter