PWPN Holds First North India Seminar in Jhabua

Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh, October 31, 2026: The Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network (PWPN) held its first North India Seminar in Jhabua, bringing together diocesan coordinators, religious and priests from Gujarat, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh for three days of prayer, reflection and discussions on strengthening the network’s mission.

The seminar was attended by Fr. Cristóbal Fones, SJ, International Director of PWPN, who travelled from the Vatican, and Fr. Xavier Tharamel, SJ, National Director of PWPN, based in New Delhi. Bishop Peter Kharadi of Jhabua hosted the programme.

The first day was devoted to a meeting of diocesan coordinators, while the second day brought together members of the Conference of Religious India (CRI), diocesan priests and other participants. The guests were welcomed in keeping with the Bhili cultural traditions of the region.

A major highlight was the release of the national-level magazine Prayer Network and prayer cards featuring Pope Leo XIV’s prayer intentions for 2027.

Addressing the participants, Fr. Fones outlined three central pillars of PWPN: the Word of God, the Eucharist and mission. He stressed their importance in nurturing the spiritual lives of members and strengthening their commitment to the Church’s missionary mission.

The seminar concluded with the celebration of the Eucharist at Jhabua Cathedral on the final day. A concluding meeting was subsequently held at the conference hall of the diocesan Public Relations Office.

The gathering provided a platform for participants from the three states to share experiences, strengthen regional coordination and deepen their engagement with the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network.

By Fr. Rocky shah

Diocesan coordinator

Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network (PWPN)

Catholic diocese of Jhabua