Workshop in Ranchi Equips Catechists with Fresh Approaches to Evangelising Children

Ranchi, April 24, 2026: A two-day workshop aimed at renewing the Church's mission among children concluded at the Social Development Centre in Ranchi, inspiring catechists, clergy, and religious to embrace innovative and faith-filled methods of evangelisation.

Organised by the Pontifical Mission Societies, the programme, titled "New Ways to Lead the Children to Jesus," was held on April 23 and 24 and brought together 108 participants from across Jharkhand. The gathering included 16 priests, more than 30 women religious, and 62 lay catechism teachers.

The workshop focused on revitalising catechetical ministry, with particular emphasis on the Holy Childhood Association, popularly known in India as Crus Veer, and on deepening the proclamation of the Gospel among children.

Inaugurating the event, Bishop Anand Jojo underscored the vital role of catechists as formators of faith. He encouraged participants to remain attentive to the unique socio-cultural realities of Jharkhand while accompanying children with creativity, compassion, and conviction.

The second day began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Archbishop Vincent Aind. In his homily, he called on catechists to combine a deep-rooted faith with innovative teaching methods that resonate with today's children, enabling them to encounter Christ in meaningful and transformative ways.

Among the key resource persons was Fr Raju Mathew, who highlighted the centrality of the Word of God, the Kerygma, and catechesis. He stressed that effective catechesis must move beyond instruction, helping children develop a personal and living relationship with Jesus.

Fr Paul D'Souza reflected on the missionary dimension of Baptism, reminding participants that every catechist is called to be a missionary disciple. Offering practical and engaging pedagogical tools, he encouraged catechists to foster active participation so that children may embrace the faith with joy. Drawing inspiration from Francis Xavier, he challenged teachers to form children who pray for the sick and become instruments of transformation in their homes and communities.

A special focus was given to the Holy Childhood movement and its enduring vision of "children helping children." Participants reflected on how the movement forms young people as missionaries through prayer, sacrifice, and sharing, continuing to shape millions of children worldwide.

The workshop, coordinated by Fr Valerian Lobo, proved to be a significant moment of spiritual renewal and pastoral formation. Participants returned to their parishes and institutions with renewed enthusiasm and a stronger commitment to the Church's mission among children.

The programme reaffirmed the importance of proclaiming the Gospel to the young, adopting creative catechetical methods, and nurturing Crus Veer members as missionary disciples. It concluded with a shared conviction that by forming children in faith today, the Church is laying the foundation for vibrant families, flourishing parishes, and a missionary future.

By Fr Paul Dsouza