Simla-Chandigarh Diocese Holds Five-Day Retreat for Catechists and Sisters

Kauli, October 10, 2026: Thirty catechists and Religious Sisters involved in catechetical ministry participated in a five-day retreat organised by the Commission for Evangelization and Proclamation of the Diocese of Simla-Chandigarh at Yusf Sadan, Kauli, from October 5 to 9.

Fr. Maria Silva Das, Vicar General of the Diocese, led the retreat, while Fr. Vilfred Masih, secretary of the commission, coordinated the programme and arrangements.

Through talks, interactive sessions and group discussions, Fr. Maria Silva Das encouraged catechists to become role models in their parishes through prayer, love, service and dedication. He emphasised that the Gospel should be proclaimed not only through words but also through personal example.

The programme incorporated Punjabi biblical boliyan and local cultural expressions into group activities, demonstrating how regional languages, traditions and customs could make catechetical ministry more engaging and relevant to local communities.

Evening Eucharistic adoration, healing prayers and other devotional activities formed part of the retreat. Drawing on his missionary experience, Fr. Maria Silva Das encouraged participants to serve their parishes with greater creativity and commitment.

Bishop Sahaya Thatheus Thomas of Simla-Chandigarh celebrated the concluding Thanksgiving Eucharist on October 9. Describing catechists as working on the four frontiers of evangelisation and as the right hand of the parish priest, he urged them to persevere in their mission. He also stressed that the Eucharist, the source and summit of Christian life, must remain central to their ministry.

Participants expressed gratitude to Fr. Maria Silva Das for his guidance, Fr. Vilfred Masih for organising the retreat, and the team for its hospitality and support.

The retreat concluded with participants returning to their respective parishes, equipped with fresh insights and renewed commitment to proclaiming the Gospel and serving their communities.

By Fr. Vilfred Masih,

Secretary,

Commission for Evangelization and Proclamation