Together Towards 2033: Simla-Chandigarh Diocese Charts Youth-Centred Pastoral Vision

Chandigarh, April 14, 2026: In a significant step towards shaping a future-oriented pastoral mission, the Simla-Chandigarh Diocese convened its Diocesan Pastoral Council (DPC) at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre in Sector 19-A, bringing together nearly 235 representatives from across the region for a day of prayerful reflection, dialogue, and strategic planning.

Rooted in the Gospel vision of John 3:13–17, the gathering set a deeply spiritual tone, framing the Church’s mission within the call to respond compassionately and responsibly to contemporary challenges. Central to the deliberations was a pressing concern: the growing crisis of youth unemployment and its far-reaching implications for families, communities, and the Church.

Held under the theme, “Understanding Our Youth: A Data-Driven Response to Unemployment Through Our Mission,” the meeting underscored the importance of informed pastoral engagement. Participants were invited to move beyond anecdotal understanding and engage with the lived realities of young people through data and analysis.

A key highlight was a resource session led by Jennifer Tigga S., Regional Secretary of the Laity Commission of the diocese. Offering a comprehensive overview of socio-economic conditions affecting youth, she presented critical insights that enabled participants to approach pastoral planning with greater clarity and responsiveness.

Addressing the assembly, Bishop Sahaya Thatheus Thomas called for a renewed ecclesial commitment to accompany young people navigating an increasingly complex world. Emphasising the urgency of addressing unemployment and limited opportunities, he urged the faithful to listen attentively to the aspirations and struggles of youth and to respond with meaningful, mission-oriented initiatives.

The Bishop also outlined the vision of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan 2026–2033, encouraging all sectors of the diocese to journey together in a spirit of synodality. He stressed the need for collaborative action, shared responsibility, and active participation at every level to effectively address emerging pastoral priorities.

The day’s deliberations continued in deanery-level group discussions, where participants examined grassroots realities and proposed context-specific action plans. These were later presented in a plenary session, reflecting a collective resolve to translate vision into concrete initiatives.

The council also marked a moment of transition with the election of new office bearers. Anna Minz was elected Secretary, with Josephin as Joint Secretary. The gathering expressed gratitude to the outgoing team, including Sameer Larka and Rosy, for their committed service to the diocesan mission.

As the Simla-Chandigarh Diocese looks ahead to 2033, the DPC meeting signalled a renewed pastoral urgency—one that places young people at the heart of its mission, guided by data, dialogue, and a shared commitment to building a more hopeful and inclusive future.

By Fr. Vianney

Coordinator of Commissions

Simla-Chandigarh Diocese