Northern Catholic Council Calls for Church Renewal Inspired by St. Francis

Jammu, September 27, 2026: The Church in northern India has called for concrete action on peace, poverty, justice and care for creation as part of its effort to renew its mission in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi.

The call emerged from the 64th Regional Catholic Council of the North (RCCN), held at Maitri Bhavan Pastoral Centre, Smailpur, Bari Brahmana, Jammu, on September 26–27 under the theme “Go, Rebuild My Church.” The gathering marked the 800th anniversary of the Transitus of St. Francis.

The council brought together bishops, priests, religious and lay representatives from the four dioceses of the Northern Region to reflect on Franciscan spirituality and translate it into pastoral action.

Sr. Dr. Dhanya, FCC, opened the reflection with a session on “St. Francis of Assisi: A Gospel-Centred Vision for a Church in Renewal.” She highlighted the saint’s simplicity, solidarity with the poor, commitment to reconciliation and justice, and care for creation as enduring elements of Christian witness.

Fr Suresh Mathew OFM Cap., in a session on “Go and Rebuild My Church: Jubilee Year Message and Its Significance for the Church,” urged the participants to give concrete expression to the Franciscan values of peace, poverty, justice and care for creation. The discussions that followed produced proposals for action at the regional and diocesan levels.

On the second day, the council also reviewed the implementation of the CCBI Pastoral Plan and reports of the regional commissions. Bishop Ivan Pereira of Jammu-Srinagar commended the Regional Executive Secretaries for their work in implementing the pastoral plan.

A major outcome of the council was the preparation of six-month diocesan action plans centred on peace, poverty and justice. The four dioceses also proposed initiatives to strengthen synodality and encourage greater participation in the life and mission of the Church.

The council reviewed the implementation of earlier diocesan action plans, with the respective diocesan secretaries presenting progress reports. Most Rev. Jose Sebastian, who moderated the review, appreciated the dioceses for the prompt implementation of their plans.

The first day concluded with a Eucharistic celebration marking the 800th anniversary of St. Francis’ death, presided over by Bishop Pereira. In his homily, he emphasised that inner transformation must precede efforts to reform the Church. The Archdiocese of Delhi organised the liturgy.

The council concluded on September 27 with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Archbishop Anil J. T. Couto of Delhi to mark the World Day of Migrants and Refugees. The Diocese of Jammu-Srinagar organised the liturgy, followed by a cultural programme presented by its Migrant Commission.

The council was inaugurated by Bishop Pereira, while Fr. Antony Thuruthiyil, Regional Deputy Secretary, introduced the resource persons. Babu Joseph (Bunty), RCCN Secretary, presented the minutes of the previous council. Archbishop Couto also shared regional information and updates.

The next Regional Catholic Council of the North will be held in Jalandhar on March 6–7, 2027.

By Catholic Connect Reporter