Patna Missionary Meet Sets Renewed Priorities For Evangelisation

Patna, December 2, 2025 — Major superiors, community leaders and priests from across the Archdiocese of Patna gathered at Nav Jyoti Niketan for a two-day Patna Missionary Meet aimed at renewing missionary zeal, strengthening collaboration and setting pastoral priorities for evangelisation and service in the region. 

Archbishop Sebastian Kallupura welcomed participants and invited them to draw inspiration from the early missionaries whose dedication laid the foundations of the Church in Bihar. The programme included reflections from Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas of Daltonganj and Sr Inigo Joachim, along with inputs from Fr Maria Charles SDB, Fr Anto Joseph SJ and Fr Joseph Sebastian SJ, focusing on the missionary context of today and the call to respond with innovation and courage. 

Discussions emphasised three guiding commitments for mission: a credible and simple witness in close solidarity with the poor, fostering fraternity and shared discernment, and ensuring direct, compassionate presence among disadvantaged communities. 

Participants identified key areas requiring urgent attention in the archdiocese, including youth ministry rooted in justice and equality, parish renewal to form active disciples, and access to quality education for marginalised children. 

The meeting concluded with a call for leaders to adopt a hopeful and forward-looking approach, strengthening cooperation, empowering communities and embracing new opportunities for missionary outreach in Bihar.

By Fr. Sebastin A

Archdiocese of Patna