Telugu Bishops’ Council Reviews Efforts to Promote Christian Unity and Interreligious Dialogue

VIJAYAWADA, November 5, 2026: The Telugu Catholic Bishops’ Council (TCBC) has called for stronger cooperation among Christian denominations and greater engagement with people of other religions during a two-day meeting of diocesan directors of its Commissions for Ecumenism and Dialogue.

Held on November 4–5 at the Bishop’s House in Vijayawada, the meeting was chaired by Bishop Anthony Das Pilli, Coadjutor Bishop of Nellore. Bishop T. Joseph Raja Rao of Vijayawada attended as the chief guest.

Fr Vincent Sekhar, the resource person, led two sessions on ecumenism and interreligious dialogue, stressing that building relationships with other Christian communities and people of different faiths is integral to the Church’s mission, particularly in the present social context.

In his keynote address, Bishop Das Pilli drew attention to the Vatican document *A Journey of Hope*, issued to mark the 60th anniversary of *Nostra Aetate*. He urged diocesan directors to promote dialogue and fraternity by building bridges across religious and social divides.

He said dialogue fosters mutual understanding, makes unity possible and encourages cooperation for the common good of humanity and creation. He called on participants to pursue this mission with courage and commitment.

An interactive session with representatives of various Churches and Christian denominations belonging to the Andhra Pradesh Federation of Churches (APFC) explored ways to strengthen Christian unity and address shared concerns. Participants discussed the need for a collective response to violence against Christians and efforts to safeguard their constitutional rights.

Diocesan and regional reports were presented, followed by a review of pastoral initiatives and challenges. Participants also developed an action plan to strengthen ecumenical cooperation and interreligious dialogue across the Telugu region, in line with the national pastoral plan of the Commission.

Bishop Raja Rao appreciated the national and regional pastoral plans and urged dioceses to take concrete steps to implement the proposed activities. He also highlighted the need to involve religious sisters in ecumenical and interreligious ministry and provide them with appropriate training.

Referring to challenges in engaging with independent Churches, he called for a change in attitude and greater mutual recognition among Christian communities to facilitate cooperation.

In his concluding remarks, Bishop Das Pilli urged participants to remain committed to Christian unity, saying that genuine communion requires people to move beyond personal interests and adopt a collective outlook. He recalled Christ’s desire that all may be one in the Spirit.

Fr. Anthaiah Kondaveeti, regional secretary, thanked the participants for their presence and active involvement. The meeting concluded with a prayer and benediction led by Bishop Das Pilli.

By Catholic Connect Reporter