Ranchi Seminary Holds National Seminar on Rebuilding the Church

Ranchi, November 14, 2026: The role of the Church in addressing contemporary social, cultural and ecological challenges came under focus at a national research seminar organised by St. Albert’s College, Ranchi, on November 14.

The Annual National Research Seminar 2026–27 brought together theologians, researchers and academicians to discuss the theme, “A Call to Rebuild the Church”, with particular attention to healing, interreligious dialogue, ecological responsibility and the Church’s engagement with indigenous communities.

The seminar was inaugurated by lighting a ceremonial lamp in the presence of dignitaries and paper presenters. The Seminary Choir led the opening prayer, while Rector Fr. Ajay Kumar Xalxo welcomed the participants.

The first academic session, moderated by Dr. Sushil Kumar Minj, featured three research papers exploring the Church’s response to contemporary challenges.

Fr. Valerian Lobo examined the Church’s role as a source of healing, compassion and hope in a divided world. Dr. John Barla OFM Cap presented the theological foundations of Franciscan interreligious dialogue, while Dr. Bhushan Bara explored common perspectives on fraternity, interconnectedness and respect for creation in the spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi and Adivasi traditions.

The second session focused on the Church’s mission among indigenous communities in Jharkhand. Prof. Dr. Suman Kumar Ekka highlighted the historical contribution of the Church and its continuing relevance to Adivasi communities.

Dr. Raju Felix Crasta, Director of the St. Albert Institute of Philosophy, presented a paper on missionary contributions to the formation of the indigenous Church, with particular reference to Chotanagpur. He stressed the importance of building a Church that respects indigenous culture and identity while encouraging greater participation of local communities.

Concluding the seminar, Prof. Dr. Selvaraj highlighted the relevance of the research presentations to the Church’s contemporary mission. Fr. Fabian Kullu, a research scholar, proposed the vote of thanks.

The discussions emphasised the need to understand the rebuilding of the Church beyond its institutional structures, focusing instead on a community shaped by healing, dialogue, fraternity and solidarity, and rooted in the cultural and social realities of the people it serves.

By Fr. Praful Bara