CCBI Plenary Assembly to Embrace Participatory and Synodal Approach
Bangalore (CCBI): The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) is set to make its upcoming Plenary Assembly more participatory and synodal, reflecting the spirit of inclusiveness and shared mission. The assembly, scheduled from January 28 to February 4, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, will discuss the theme, “Discerning the Synodal Pathways for Mission.”
As part of its preparations, the CCBI General Secretariat has released a preparatory document and a questionnaire to dioceses and religious congregations across India. This initiative aims to gather widespread feedback, making the event a collective discernment process. Responses are expected by October 31, 2024, to help draft the working document for the assembly.
To further enhance participation, an online survey has been introduced, inviting the lay faithful to share their suggestions and recommendations. This is the first time such a wide-ranging consultation process has been initiated, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and shared responsibility in the Church’s mission.
A core team, led by Bishop Allwyn D’Silva, Emeritus Auxiliary Bishop of Bombay, has been formed to compile the feedback from various sources. The team will be instrumental in shaping the final working document that will guide discussions at the assembly.
Additionally, the assembly will see the introduction of the “spiritual conversation methodology,” a new approach aimed at fostering deeper engagement and dialogue among participants.
The CCBI, representing 132 dioceses and 208 bishops, is the largest episcopal conference in Asia and the fourth largest globally. Through this synodal initiative, it seeks to create a more inclusive and collaborative environment for the Church in India.
By Dr. Stephen Alathara