Secretaries to Bishops and Major Superiors Attend Formation Workshop in Goa

Benaulim, Goa, April 9, 2026: In a significant initiative aimed at strengthening ecclesial administration, the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India has convened a five-day workshop for Secretaries to Bishops and Major Superiors at Shanti Sadan, Benaulim, Goa. The programme, underway from April 8 to 13, has brought together 32 participants, including 10 diocesan and 22 religious secretaries.

The workshop seeks to enhance administrative efficiency, pastoral sensitivity, and communication skills among those serving in ecclesial leadership.

The programme commenced with the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa-Daman and President of both the CCBI and the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences. In his inaugural address, Cardinal Ferrão highlighted the importance of grounding administrative responsibilities in a deep spiritual life, noting that effective service flows from an inner commitment to faith.

Participants were welcomed by Fr. Duming Gonsalves, Administrator, while the sessions are being facilitated by Fr. Vijay Machado, Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Faith Formation.

The workshop includes a series of thematic sessions focusing on leadership identity, Church governance, office management, and pastoral responsibility. Practical components address confidentiality, time management, protocol and reception etiquette, documentation and archiving, and the planning of Church activities. The sessions also emphasise the importance of effective communication systems, both internal and external, and highlight the evolving role of technology in Church administration, including the integration of AI tools in ministry.

As part of the programme, participants are undertaking a pilgrimage to various significant locations, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Sé Cathedral, and the Church of the Cross of Miracles in Old Goa, along with the St. Joseph Vaz Centre in Old Goa, the Tomb of Agnel in Pilar, St. Joseph Vaz Church in Sancoale, and St. John Baptist Church in Benaulim.

The Holy Eucharist on the concluding day will be presided over by Fr. Stephen Alathara.

Beyond this, Shanti Sadan continues to offer specialised courses, including the Financial Management Course designed for financial administrators at the diocesan and provincial levels, and the Diocesan Administration Course tailored for Vicar Generals and Chancellors, catering to the specific needs of individuals involved in the administrative and financial aspects of the Church.

For inquiries, please contact shantisadangoa@gmail.com or office@shantisadan.in, or call 9309110391.

By Catholic Connect Reporter