New Delhi, 23 December 2025, CBCI: The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) expresses deep anguish and unequivocally condemns
the alarming rise in attacks on Christians in various states of our country
during the Christmas season. These targeted incidents, especially against peaceful
carol singers and congregations gathered in churches to pray, gravely undermine
India’s constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and the right to live
and worship without fear.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

CBCI is particularly shocked by the viral video from
Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, where a visually challenged woman attending a
Christmas programme was publicly abused and physically harassed by BJP City
Vice President Anju Bhargava, and by reports of antinational groups disrupting
Christmas gatherings. In light of such egregious and dehumanizing conduct, the
CBCI demands the immediate dismissal of Anju Bhargava from the Bharatiya Janata
Party. Equally disturbing is the circulation of hate-filled digital posters in
Chhattisgarh, reportedly calling for a bandh on 24 December 2025 against
Christians, which can inflame tensions and incite further violence.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

CBCI condemns these hateful acts in the strongest possible
terms and urges both state governments and the Union Government to take urgent,
visible action against all individuals and organisations spreading hatred and
violence. CBCI earnestly requests the Hon’ble Union Home Minister, Shri Amit
Shah ji, to ensure strict enforcement of law and proactive protection for
Christian communities so that the joyful festival of Christmas may be
celebrated peacefully, in an atmosphere of security and harmony, across our
beloved nation.<o:p></o:p>

Christmas Under Threat: CBCI Condemns Hate, Demands Protection For Christians

New Delhi, 18 December 2025, CBCI: The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) celebrated Christmas 2025 on December 18 at 6:00 pm
at the CBCI Centre, New Delhi. The Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri C. P.
Radhakrishnan, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.<o:p></o:p>

Prior to the formal program, the Hon’ble Vice President,
along with other dignitaries, visited the Holy Crib and paid homage to Baby
Jesus. Addressing the gathering, Shri Radhakrishnan said that Christianity was
brought to India in 52 AD by St. Thomas the Apostle, and that at the heart of
the Christian message is the teaching of Lord Jesus Christ, who came into the
world to establish peace and harmony. He added that His message resonates
deeply with India’s spiritual traditions of compassion, co-existence, and
respect for human dignity.<o:p></o:p>

The Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal, Dr. C. V. Ananda Bose,
was the Guest of Honor. In his remarks, he noted, “Christmas brings us
together. Coming together is the beginning, keeping together is progress, and
working together is success.”<o:p></o:p>

The celebrations were also graced by the Apostolic Nuncio to
India and Nepal, Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli. <o:p></o:p>

The program was presided over by the President of the CBCI
and Archbishop of Thrissur, Most Rev. Dr. Andrews Thazhath. In his presidential
address, he remarked that Christians have served the nation without
discrimination of caste or creed and affirmed, “We are a people of hope and
communion. We believe in the Constitution of India and trust that it will
safeguard religious freedom, unity, and equality.” <o:p></o:p>

Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas, Second Vice President of the
CBCI and Bishop of Bathery, invoked God’s blessings with the opening prayer.
The Secretary General of the CBCI and Archbishop of Delhi, Most Rev. Dr. Anil
Couto, delivered the welcome address, while the Deputy Secretary General, Rev.
Dr. Mathew Koyickal, proposed the vote of thanks.<o:p></o:p>

The celebrations witnessed the presence of Cardinals Moran
Mor Baselios Cleemis, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara
Catholic Church; Cardinal Oswald Gracias; Cardinal Poola Anthony; His Beatitude
Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil; Archbishops, Bishops, Ambassadors,
religious leaders, Members of Parliament, and political and social leaders from
various walks of life.<o:p></o:p>

Christmas carols were rendered by the Christ University
Delhi NCR Choir, and performances by the Little Saints added a joyful and
festive spirit to the celebrations.<o:p></o:p>

Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan Calls Jesus’ Message a Beacon of Compassion and Co-existence

New Delhi, December 17, 2025: The Christmas celebrations of
the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) for the year 2025 will be held
on December 18 at 6:00 pm at the CBCI Centre, New Delhi. The Hon’ble Vice
President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, will grace the occasion as the
Chief Guest. In 2024, the CBCI Christmas celebrations were graced by the
Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, as the Chief Guest.<o:p></o:p>

The celebrations will also be attended by distinguished
guests, including the Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal, Dr. C. V. Ananda Bose,
and the Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli.<o:p></o:p>

The program will be presided over by the President of the
CBCI and Archbishop of Thrissur, Most Rev. Dr. Andrews Thazhath. The Secretary
General of the CBCI and Archbishop of Delhi, Most Rev. Dr. Anil Couto, will
deliver the welcome address, while the Deputy Secretary General of the CBCI,
Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, will propose the vote of thanks.<o:p></o:p>

Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishops, Ambassadors, religious
leaders, and other eminent personalities from various walks of life are also
expected to be present at the celebrations.<o:p></o:p>

Indian Vice President to Grace CBCI Christmas Celebrations 2025 as Chief Guest

New Delhi, 13 December 2025, CBCI: The Catholic Bishops'
Conference of India (CBCI) welcomes the recent Supreme Court judgment imposing
a cost of ₹1 lakh on an NGO for filing a writ petition challenging the 2014
Constitution Bench judgment that upheld the exemption of minority educational
institutions from the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act,
2009.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary, CBCI, and Sr.
Adv. Sayujya, National Secretary, CBCI legal cell, appreciate the spirit of the
bench, comprising Justice BV Nagarathna and Justice R Mahadevan, for dismissing
the plea and describing it as the "grossest abuse of process".<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

"This judgment reaffirms the Constitution's commitment
to protecting minority rights," said Dr. Koyickal. Adv. Sayujya added,
"We commend the Supreme Court for upholding the principles of justice and
promoting the values of our Constitution."<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Welcomes Supreme Court's Strong Stance Against Frivolous Petitions

New Delhi, 10 December 2025, CBCI: &nbsp;Challenging the Constitutional validity of the
Rajasthan Prohibition of Unlawful&nbsp;
Conversion Religion Act 2025, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India
filed a Writ Petition (C) No.1187/2025, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India v
the State of Rajasthan.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

The matter came up for hearing on 8th December 2025
before the Bench of Hon’ble Mr. Justice Dipankar Datta and Hon’ble Mr. Justice
George Augustine Masih. The Court has issued notice to the State of Rajasthan,
which was accepted by Ms. Nidhi Jaiswal marking an important procedural step in
the progression of the case.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of the CBCI
welcomes the move of the Hon’ble Supreme Court and remains hopeful that justice
will prevail in safeguarding the rights and freedoms guaranteed under the
Constitution of India<o:p></o:p>

Supreme Court Issues Notice in Writ Petition Filed by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India 

New Delhi, 5 December 2025, CBCI: The Hon’ble Governor of
West Bengal, Dr. C. V. Ananda Bose, IAS (Retd), paid a friendly visit to the
CBCI Centre, the headquarters of the Catholic Church in India, on the afternoon
of 5th December. This marks his first visit to the Centre since assuming office
as Governor.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of the
Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), warmly received the Governor upon
his arrival.<o:p></o:p>

During the interaction, the Hon’ble Governor inquired about
the Church in India. Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal briefed him on the current
scenario of the Catholic Church in the country and highlighted the various
activities and initiatives undertaken by the CBCI.<o:p></o:p>

Hon’ble West Bengal Governor Dr. C. V. Ananda Bose Visits CBCI Centre

New Delhi, December 5, 2025, CBCI: The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) Legal Cell and the CBCI Council for Women jointly
organized a two-day National Seminar on the theme “Uniting for Justice:
Safeguarding Our Religious Freedom and Constitutional Rights” from December 5
to 6 at the Navjivan Renewal Centre, Delhi. The seminar brought together around
75 delegates representing dioceses and religious congregations from across the
country.<o:p></o:p>

The program opened with an inaugural address by Archbishop
Anil J. T. Couto, Secretary General of the CBCI and Archbishop of Delhi, who
stressed the importance of citizens being fully aware of their rights and the
constitutional guarantees that protect them.<o:p></o:p>

In his welcome address, Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy
Secretary General of the CBCI, reaffirmed the CBCI’s commitment to standing
with the people to ensure the protection of constitutional rights for all. Sr.
Mary Scaria SCJM, Advocate at the Supreme Court, Setting the context, she
quoted Pastor Martin Niemöller: “First they came for the Communists, and I
did not speak up because I was not a Communist. Then they came for the
Socialists, and I did not speak out because I was not a Socialist. Then they
came for the Jews, and I did not speak out because I was not a Jew… Finally,
when they came for me, there was no one left to speak for me.” This
highlighted the urgency of uniting to safeguard our religious freedom and
constitutional rights. <o:p></o:p>

Delivering the keynote address, Hon’ble Mr. Sunil Ambuwani,
former Chief Justice of the Jodhpur High Court, spoke on “Upholding
Constitutional Values and Constitutional Morality,” emphasizing the need to
safeguard the foundational principles of the nation. Ms. Annie Raja, political
activist, addressed the gathering on “Communal Violence and Its Impact on Women
and Children: An Affront to Constitutional Ethos,” highlighting the acute
challenges faced by vulnerable communities.<o:p></o:p>

Mr. P. I. Jose, Supreme Court Advocate and member of the
CBCI Legal Cell, discussed “The Protection of Fundamental Rights as the Core of
Indian Democracy.” This was followed by an address by Dr. M. P. Raju, Supreme
Court Advocate, who spoke on “Constitutional Values and Constitutional
Morality: Remedies,” offering legal insights and remedial frameworks for
safeguarding democratic principles.<o:p></o:p>

A panel discussion moderated by Sr. Elsa Muttath, National
Secretary of CRI, featured contributions from experts including Mr. A. C.
Michael, President of the Catholic Association of the Archdiocese of Delhi, who
added practical perspectives to the conversation.<o:p></o:p>

Member of Parliament Mr. Richard Vanlalhmangaiha addressed
the theme “As People’s Representatives, How Effectively Can We Address the
Concerns of Minorities in India?” while Dr. John Britas, Member of Parliament,
spoke on “The Role of People’s Representatives in Safeguarding the Rights of
Minorities,” underlining the duty of elected leaders to uphold constitutional
values and protect minority rights.<o:p></o:p>

The seminar was meticulously coordinated by Sr. Adv. Sayujya
CMC, Secretary of the CBCI Legal Cell, and Sr. Adv. Asha Paul CHF, Secretary of
the CBCI Council for Women.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Legal Cell and Council for Women Hold National Seminar on Safeguarding Religious Freedom and Constitutional Rights

New Delhi, 29 November 2025, CBCI: His Holiness Pope Leo XIV
has appointed Rev. Edward Baretto, a priest of the Diocese of Darjeeling and
currently the Director of the Divya Vani Pastoral Centre, Darjeeling, as the
Coadjutor Bishop of Darjeeling.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Fr. Edward Baretto was born on 5 January 1965 and
ordained a priest on 25 March 1993 for the Diocese of Darjeeling. He completed
his Philosophy studies (1985–1988) and Theology studies (1989–1992) at Morning
Star College, Barrackpore. He later earned a Master’s degree in Philosophy from
Jnana Deepa, Pune (1996–1998), and a Licentiate in Canon Law from St. Peter’s
Pontifical Institute, Bangalore (2001–2003).<o:p></o:p>

Alongside his academic formation, Rev. Fr. Baretto served in
several pastoral and administrative roles, including Assistant Director of John
XXIII Institute Minor Seminary, Darjeeling (1993–1996; 2003–2004), and
Professor of Philosophy at Morning Star College, Barrackpore (1998–2001). He
was Quasi Parish Priest of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Liza Hill Tea Garden
(2004–2007), and Parish Priest at Mary Mother of God Church, Kalimpong
(2007–2016). He later served as Parish Priest of St. Paul’s Church, Tadong (2021–2022)
and as Director of the Gianora Home for Retired Priests (2017–2018).<o:p></o:p>

Since 2004, Rev. Fr. Baretto has been the Judicial Vicar of
the Diocese of Darjeeling, and from 2018, he has also served as Judicial Vicar
of Bagdogra. He worked as Judge at the Ecclesiastical Marriage Tribunal of
Kalimpong (2016–2018).<o:p></o:p>

He currently serves as Director of the Divya Vani Pastoral
Centre (since 2022), Secretary of the Diocesan Liturgy Commission (since 2023),
Secretary of the Bengal–Sikkim Regional Canon Law Commission (since 2024), and
Coordinator of the Diocesan Commissions (since 2025).<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Appoints Rev. Edward Baretto as Coadjutor Bishop of Darjeeling

New Delhi, 28 November 2025, CBCI: The Major Archbishop of
the Syro-Malabar Church, Mar Raphael Thattil, has called upon the Church in
Asia to adopt a new path of reconciliation. He was addressing delegates at the Great
Pilgrimage of Hope conference held in Penang, Malaysia, on 28 November
2025.<o:p></o:p>

Speaking on the region’s rich diversity, the Major
Archbishop urged the Church to bear witness to the faith amid Asia’s many
religions and cultures, doing so with a heart that is both reconciled and
capable of bringing reconciliation to others.<o:p></o:p>

Mar Raphael Thattil emphasized the Christian duty to see
Christ in every person, especially the poor and the vulnerable, describing this
as the core of the Church’s mission in Asia.<o:p></o:p>

He also highlighted the crucial role of the laity in
bringing the Gospel into workplaces, neighborhoods, and public life. Through
their daily witness and their identity rooted in Baptism, lay faithful become
missionaries in their own contexts, he noted.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil Urges Asian Church to Embrace the Path of Reconciliation

New Delhi, 28 November 2025, CBCI: As part of his Apostolic
Journey to Turkey and Lebanon (27 November – 2 December 2025), His Holiness
Pope Leo XIV led an Ecumenical Prayer Meeting near the archaeological site of
the ancient Basilica of Saint Neophytos in İznik, marking the 1700th
anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea. The gathering brought together the
Ecumenical Patriarch His Holiness Bartholomew, Heads of Churches, and
representatives of the World Christian Communions.<o:p></o:p>

Addressing the assembly, Pope Leo XIV described the
anniversary as a precious opportunity to reflect on the central question: “Who
is Jesus Christ for the women and men of today—and for each of us?” He
cautioned Christians against reducing Christ to merely a charismatic figure,
noting that such distortions lead to “sadness and confusion.” Citing the
Arian controversy, the Pope emphasized the enduring importance of affirming
Christ’s full divinity and humanity—truths at the heart of the Council of
Nicaea.<o:p></o:p>

The Pope highlighted that the shared confession of faith in
Jesus Christ, articulated in the Nicene Creed, remains a deep bond uniting all
Christian Churches and Communities, even those that do not use the Creed
liturgically. Quoting St. Augustine, he stated that, “although we Christians
are many, in the one Christ we are one.” This unity in Christ, he stressed,
calls all believers to overcome divisions and grow in mutual love, dialogue,
and fidelity to the Word of God.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV linked the call for Christian unity with the
broader yearning of humanity for peace, fraternity, and reconciliation,
particularly in a world torn by conflict and violence. He affirmed that
invoking God as Father requires recognizing every person as a brother or sister
created in God’s image. Religions, he said, must serve as custodians of
universal fraternity, firmly rejecting fundamentalism, extremism, and any
misuse of religion to justify violence.<o:p></o:p>

Expressing deep gratitude to Ecumenical Patriarch
Bartholomew for his leadership in organizing the commemoration at the historic
site, the Pope thanked all Church leaders and representatives present. He
concluded with a prayer that the anniversary of Nicaea would inspire renewed
reconciliation, unity, and peace among Christians and throughout the world.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Calls for Christian Unity and Global Fraternity at Ecumenical Prayer Meeting in İznik

New Delhi, 28 November 2025: The 7th Annual National
Conference of the Lawyers Forum of Priests and Religious is being held
from 28–30 November 2025, bringing together nearly 150 priests and religious
lawyers from across the country. The theme of this year’s gathering is “Living
our Christian Call: Upholding Constitutional Values and Moral Responsibility in
Today’s India.”<o:p></o:p>

The Conference was inaugurated by several distinguished
dignitaries including Rt. Rev. Raphy Manjaly, Archbishop of Agra; Hon’ble
Justice Sunil Ambwani, Retired Chief Justice of Jodhpur; Rt. Rev. Joseph
Kallarackal, Bishop of Jaipur; Rt. Rev. Dr. Oswald J. Lewis, Bishop of Jaipur
(Emeritus); and Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General, CBCI,
Delhi, among other notable personalities.<o:p></o:p>

In his presidential address, Fr. Santhanam S.J., Convenor of
the Forum, described the Lawyers Forum as a “fraternity of conscience”,
a spiritual–legal collective grounded in the sacredness of the Indian
Constitution.<o:p></o:p>

Delivering the keynote address, Rt. Rev. Raphy Manjaly
emphasized that India is a “union of diversities,” warning that any attempt to
impose uniformity violates the spirit of the Constitution. He urged
participants to become prophets of harmony and justice in the nation.<o:p></o:p>

Rt. Rev. Joseph Kallarackal, Bishop of Jaipur, expressed
deep appreciation for the Forum’s tireless commitment to promoting and
protecting human rights throughout the country.<o:p></o:p>

Rt. Rev. Dr. Oswald J. Lewis, Bishop of Jaipur (Emeritus),
spoke on the contemporary challenges facing Christian lawyers in upholding
constitutional values while fulfilling their moral and professional
responsibilities.<o:p></o:p>

Addressing the gathering, Rev, Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy
Secretary General, CBCI, stressed the need to build a society where no one
is discarded, invisible, or denied constitutional rights. He highlighted
the pivotal role of the Forum in the present socio-political climate.<o:p></o:p>

Guest of Honour Justice Sunil Ambwani, Retired Chief Justice
of Jodhpur, began his remarks by reciting the Preamble of the Constitution. He
called upon the participants to become agents of justice not merely in word
but in action.<o:p></o:p>

Participants expressed profound gratitude for the dynamic
leadership of the National Forum and extended special appreciation to the
organizing team led by Fr. Sebastian Kollithanam and Sr. Helen Teresa CHF,
whose dedicated efforts ensured the smooth and effective conduct of the
Conference.<o:p></o:p>

Lawyers Forum of Priests and Religious Focuses on Constitutional Ethics at 7th National Meet

New Delhi, 27 November 2025, CBCI: &nbsp;New Pope Leo XIV’s first engagement upon his
arrival in Türkiye on Thursday morning was a solemn visit to the Mausoleum of
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Türkiye.<o:p></o:p>

Following the official welcome ceremony at Ankara’s
International Airport, the Holy Father proceeded to Anıtkabir—meaning “memorial
tomb”—accompanied by an official delegation that included the Minister, the
Vice-Governor, and the Commander of the Mausoleum.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV signed the Mausoleum’s Book of Honour, writing:
“I give thanks to God for being able to visit Türkiye, and I invoke upon this
country and its people an abundance of peace and prosperity.”<o:p></o:p>

This marks the first stop on the Pope’s 6-day Apostolic
Visit to Türkiye and Lebanon—his first journey abroad since assuming the
papacy.<o:p></o:p>

Anıtkabir holds deep national significance for the Turkish
people, commemorating Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who led the Turkish National
Movement, founded the Republic of Türkiye in 1923, and served as its first
president. Revered as the “Father of the Turks,” Atatürk is celebrated for
shaping the nation’s identity, modernization, and secular framework.<o:p></o:p>

<span style="font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-theme-font:
minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:
EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">News Courtesy: Vatican News&nbsp;

Pope Leo XIV Pays Tribute at Atatürk Mausoleum in Ankara

New Delhi, 26 November 2025, CBCI: &nbsp;NISCORT (National Institute of Social
Communications, Research and Training) observed Constitution Day with a series
of respectful events emphasizing democratic values.<o:p></o:p>

The program began with an address by Director Rev. Fr.
Robinson Rodrigues, who highlighted the Constitution's role as a national
guide. This was immediately followed by a conviction-filled recitation of the
Preamble by all attending staff and students, led by Rev. Fr. Rodrigues.<o:p></o:p>

Student engagement was prominent through a special Inner
Voice Radio broadcast. The informative program featured discussions on
fundamental rights and the Constitution’s contemporary relevance.<o:p></o:p>

Principal Dr. Ritu Dubey Tiwari addressed the gathering,
urging the NISCORT community to uphold constitutional principles in their
lives. The commemoration concluded with a floral tribute offered by all
participants in honour of the Constitution’s architects.<o:p></o:p>

NISCORT Marks Constitution Day with Preamble Recitation and Civic Programming

New Delhi, 26 November 2025, CBCI: The Catholic Bishops'
Conference of India (CBCI) marked Constitution Day by extending greetings to
all citizens and urging the nation to reaffirm its commitment to the core
constitutional principles of Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. The
CBCI emphasized that these values are vital for the health of India’s
democratic Republic and must be conscientiously safeguarded.<o:p></o:p>

In its statement, the CBCI highlighted that the
Constitution, shaped by the vision of its framers, remains a guiding beacon for
a diverse and pluralistic India. It ensures dignity, rights, and equal
opportunities for every citizen, irrespective of religion, caste, or creed.<o:p></o:p>

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India underscored the
importance of fully implementing constitutional guarantees, especially those
protecting religious minorities and socially vulnerable communities. It called
upon the Government of India to uphold and defend these guarantees and ensure
the protection of human rights for all citizens.<o:p></o:p>

Pointing to key democratic institutions - such as the
National Human Rights Commission, the National Minorities’ Commission, and the
Election Commission of India - the CBCI stressed the need to preserve their
neutrality and functional effectiveness. These institutions, it noted, serve as
essential safeguards envisaged for democratic consolidation.<o:p></o:p>

Reiterating that a credible electoral process is central to
any democracy, the CBCI urged the government to address the concerns raised by
various sections of society regarding electoral procedures. It called for steps
to ensure independence, impartiality, and efficiency within all democratic
institutions.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI reaffirmed its commitment to uphold the spirit of
the Constitution by promoting social upliftment, fostering interfaith harmony,
and contributing to national development.<o:p></o:p>

Concluding its message, the CBCI encouraged citizens across
the country to renew their dedication to the ideals of justice, liberty,
equality, and fraternity, and to work together toward a more inclusive and
compassionate India guided by constitutional values.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

CBCI Celebrates Constitution Day: Calls for Upholding Constitutional Values and Safeguarding Democratic Institutions

New Delhi, 25 November 2025, CBCI:
The Workers India Federation (WIF), in alliance with the Confederation of
Unorganized Workers’ Forums, has strongly criticised the newly implemented
Labour Codes, warning that they erode fundamental workers’ rights and pave the
way for widespread exploitation in the name of reform. In a statement released
on Monday, Fr. George Thomas Nirappukalayil, Director of WIF, declared that the
Labour Codes are “products of a strengthening crony-capitalist climate in the
country, shifting the balance of power heavily in favour of employers.” He
emphasised that labour laws were historically enacted to protect workers from
exploitation and to ensure their dignity, security, and rights, but the new
Codes instead dilute these protections and weaken the collective voice of
workers.<o:p></o:p>

The Federation expressed grave
concern over the significant curtailment of workers’ right to organise and form
trade unions, noting that such restrictions will have far-reaching
consequences. Fr. George Thomas stated that any law preventing workers from organising
themselves is a direct attack on labour democracy, weakening collective
bargaining and exposing workers—particularly in smaller establishments—to
unchecked exploitation. WIF also highlighted the failure of the Codes to
address the most pressing challenge in India’s labour landscape: ensuring
meaningful social security for the 93 percent of the workforce employed in the
unorganised sector. The Federation pointed out that there is no clarity on how
social security funds will be mobilised or how coverage will be ensured for
crores of unorganised workers, and even the recently released draft National
Employment Policy has left major gaps in implementation mechanisms.<o:p></o:p>

Another serious concern raised by
WIF is the provision allowing establishments employing up to three hundred
workers to close down without government approval. The Federation described
this as a deeply anti-worker move that will destabilise employment, encourage
sudden closures, and leave workers with no recourse or protection. Fr. George
Thomas warned that such unrestricted powers open the door to arbitrary
decisions by employers, further worsening job insecurity.<o:p></o:p>

Reiterating its position, the
Federation stressed that any labour reform must be grounded in the
constitutional guarantees of dignity, equality, and social justice. WIF urged
the government to revisit the Labour Codes through meaningful consultation with
trade unions, labour experts, and civil society organisations, and to ensure
that India’s labour policies remain aligned with&nbsp; international labour standards and
constitutional values. “The future of India’s workforce cannot be compromised
for short-term economic gains. Labour reforms should strengthen protections,
not dismantle them. The voices of workers must be at the centre of
policymaking,” Fr. George Thomas emphasised.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

The Workers India Federation
therefore calls upon the Government of India to initiate an immediate review of
the Labour Codes and to safeguard the rights, dignity, and security of millions
of workers across the nation.<o:p></o:p>

Workers India Federation Warns: New Labour Codes Threaten Workers’ Rights, Fuel Exploitation 

New Delhi, 22 November 2025, CBCI: His Holiness Pope Leo XIV
has appointed Rev. Rabindra Kumar Ranasingh, a priest of the Archdiocese of
Cuttack–Bhubaneswar, as the Titular Bishop of Tuburbo Maggiore and Auxiliary
Bishop of Cuttack–Bhubaneswar.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Fr. Rabindra Kumar Ranasingh, born on 9 July 1972, was
ordained a priest on 18 April 2001 for the Archdiocese of Cuttack–Bhubaneswar.
He completed his Philosophy studies at the Papal Seminary, Pune (1992–1995),
and pursued Theology at Khristo Jyoti Mohavidyaloya (Regional Theological
Institute), Sason (1997–2000). He later earned a Master of Arts from Bhanja
Bihar University, Berhampur, a Licentiate in Canon Law from St. Peter’s
Pontifical Institute, Bangalore, and a Doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical
Urbaniana University, Rome.<o:p></o:p>

Alongside his academic formation, Fr. Ranasingh served in
various pastoral and administrative roles, including Assistant Parish Priest at
St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Balliguda (2001–2004); Bursar and Teacher at St.
Paul’s Regional Seminary, Padanpur (2004–2007); Diocesan Director for Youth,
Teacher at St. Paul’s Minor Seminary, Balliguda, and Judge in the Diocesan
Tribunal (2010–2012). He also served as Rector of St. Paul’s Minor Seminary,
Balliguda, and Vocation Promoter (2012–2013).<o:p></o:p>

From 2017 to 2018, he was the Spiritual Director and
Professor at Khristo Jyoti Mohavidyaloya (Interdiocesan Regional Theologate of
Odisha), Sason, and Judge in the diocesan marriage tribunal. From 2018 to 2025,
he served as Director of the Khristo Jyoti Institute of Theology, Sason.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Rabindra Kumar Ranasingh is currently the Parish Priest
of Sacred Heart Church, Khura Road, Jatni, and the Dean of Cuttack Deanery.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Appoints Rev. Fr. Rabindra Kumar Ranasingh as Auxiliary Bishop of Cuttack–Bhubaneswar

New Delhi, 21 November 2025, CBCI: Constant Lievens Hospital
&amp; Research Centre, Mandar, Ranchi, &nbsp;celebrated the 10th anniversary of its
establishment, marking a decade of dedicated healthcare service to the people
of Jharkhand and neighbouring regions.<o:p></o:p>

Established with a vision to provide compassionate,
affordable, and quality medical care, the hospital has grown into a trusted
healthcare institution renowned for its patient-centred approach and modern
facilities.<o:p></o:p>

The celebration began with words of welcome by Fr. P. George
Pekkadenkuzhy, MSFS, Director of the hospital. This was followed by the
inauguration and blessing of the newly built OPD block and dialysis unit,
jointly conferred by Mar Andrews Thazhath, Archbishop of Thrissur and President
of CBCI; Archbishop John Rodrigues, Archbishop of Mumbai; and Archbishop John
Moolachira, Archbishop of Guwahati.<o:p></o:p>

The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Archbishop Victor
Henry Thakur of the Archdiocese of Raipur, along with Archbishop Andrews
Thazhath, Archbishop John Moolachira, Archbishop Vincent Aind of Ranchi, Bishop
Anand Jojo of Hazaribag, Bishop Vincent Barwa of Simdega, Bishop Linus K. P of
Gumla, and Bishop Anthonys Bara of Ambikapur.<o:p></o:p>

The Mass was attended by Fr. Jesudas, Director of St. John’s
Medical College, Bengaluru; Fr. Shaji George, representing the MSFS
Congregation; Fr. Joseph Marianus Kujur, SJ, and several other priests.
Doctors, nurses, hospital staff, well-wishers, and community representatives
also joined the celebration.<o:p></o:p>

In his homily, Archbishop John Moolachira highlighted the
hospital’s remarkable journey—from humble beginnings to a modern healthcare and
research facility that has touched thousands of lives over the last decade.<o:p></o:p>

Throughout these years, Constant Lievens Hospital has
expanded its departments, introduced advanced diagnostic services, and
strengthened its outreach programmes, especially for the poor and marginalised.
The management expressed deep appreciation for the dedicated service of the
medical and support staff who continue to carry forward the hospital’s mission.
On this milestone occasion, the hospital reaffirmed its commitment to the
legacy of Fr. Constant Lievens—the “Apostle of Chotanagpur”—to offer healing with
dignity, compassion, and excellence.<o:p></o:p>

Mar Andrews Thazhath, the Chief Guest, described the
institution as a dream project of Late Cardinal Telesphore P. Toppo and a proud
initiative of the CBCI. He noted its tremendous growth within a short span and
expressed hope that the hospital will soon flourish into a full-fledged medical
college.<o:p></o:p>

He further emphasised that Christian values of service,
teaching, and uplifting the poor and sick continue to make a transformative
impact: “We do not look at colour, caste, or religion; we offer selfless
service in the spirit of nation-building.”<o:p></o:p>

Bishop Anand Jojo of Hazaribag, in his address, praised the
hospital’s rapid progress and the collaborative support from all stakeholders.
He acknowledged the committed services of the Medical Mission Sisters and MSFS
Congregation. Recalling the motto of Servant of God Constant Lievens—“Fire must
burn”—he encouraged everyone to remain dedicated with hard work, goodwill, and
positive energy.<o:p></o:p>

Government representative and Minister Shilpi Neha Tirkey
applauded the fulfilment of a great dream of Cardinal Telesphore Toppo and the
people of Chotanagpur. She expressed confidence that, like St. John’s Medical
College in Bengaluru—the first medical institution of CBCI—Constant Lievens
Hospital will soon become the second medical college under CBCI leadership.<o:p></o:p>

The programme concluded with cultural presentations, a
display on the hospital’s history, and a vote of thanks—celebrating not only
its achievements but also its strong bond with the community.<o:p></o:p>

Reported by: Fr. Praful Bara<o:p></o:p>

Constant Lievens Hospital & Research Centre Celebrates 10 Glorious Years of Service

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(33, 37, 41); font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, &quot;Noto Sans&quot;, &quot;Liberation Sans&quot;, Arial, sans-serif, &quot;Apple Color Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Symbol&quot;, &quot;Noto Color Emoji&quot;; letter-spacing: -0.6px; background-color: rgb(247, 247, 247);">New Delhi, 18 November 2025, CBCI: Pope Leo XIV has appointed Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakken, a priest of the Eparchy of Irinjalakuda, as the Apostolic Visitor for the Syro-Malabar faithful in the Gulf countries. His Beatitude Mar Raphael Thattil, Major Archbishop, received the official communication from the Apostolic Nuncio to India, Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli.<o:p></o:p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(33, 37, 41); font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, &quot;Noto Sans&quot;, &quot;Liberation Sans&quot;, Arial, sans-serif, &quot;Apple Color Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Symbol&quot;, &quot;Noto Color Emoji&quot;; letter-spacing: -0.6px; background-color: rgb(247, 247, 247);">The Apostolic Visitor has been tasked with studying matters related to establishing and developing pastoral care structures for the Syro-Malabar faithful in the Gulf and preparing a comprehensive action plan. He will work in close unity and collaboration with the Prelates of the two Apostolic Vicariates in the Arabian Peninsula, reporting regularly to the Apostolic See on the progress of his mission.<o:p></o:p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(33, 37, 41); font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, &quot;Noto Sans&quot;, &quot;Liberation Sans&quot;, Arial, sans-serif, &quot;Apple Color Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Symbol&quot;, &quot;Noto Color Emoji&quot;; letter-spacing: -0.6px; background-color: rgb(247, 247, 247);">This much-anticipated appointment marks a significant step for the Syro-Malabar Church, especially for its members residing in the Gulf. The Church was granted the right to pastoral care in the region following a declaration by His Holiness Pope Francis on 13 May 2024, based on a petition submitted during the Major Archbishop’s formal visit to Rome shortly after assuming office.<o:p></o:p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(33, 37, 41); font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, &quot;Noto Sans&quot;, &quot;Liberation Sans&quot;, Arial, sans-serif, &quot;Apple Color Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Symbol&quot;, &quot;Noto Color Emoji&quot;; letter-spacing: -0.6px; background-color: rgb(247, 247, 247);">A decision to appoint an Apostolic Visitor as the initial step toward establishing pastoral structures was taken during a high-level meeting at the Secretariat of State on 29 October 2024. The meeting was presided over by Cardinal Pietro Parolin and attended by Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil, Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, and Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany. Following Vatican directives, the First Session of the XXXIII Synod of Bishops in January 2025 proposed a shortlist of names for consideration, culminating in this appointment.<o:p></o:p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(33, 37, 41); font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, &quot;Noto Sans&quot;, &quot;Liberation Sans&quot;, Arial, sans-serif, &quot;Apple Color Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Symbol&quot;, &quot;Noto Color Emoji&quot;; letter-spacing: -0.6px; background-color: rgb(247, 247, 247);">Fr. Jolly Vadakken, born in Mala, Kerala, in 1965, entered the Minor Seminary in Trichur after his primary education. He completed his studies in Philosophy and Theology at St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary, Aluva, and was ordained in 1989 by Mar James Pazhayattil, then Bishop of Irinjalakuda.<o:p></o:p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(33, 37, 41); font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, &quot;Noto Sans&quot;, &quot;Liberation Sans&quot;, Arial, sans-serif, &quot;Apple Color Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Symbol&quot;, &quot;Noto Color Emoji&quot;; letter-spacing: -0.6px; background-color: rgb(247, 247, 247);">After serving in various parishes, he pursued higher studies in Media and Catechetics at the Salesian University, Rome. Over the years, he has held key roles including Eparchial Media Director, Director of Catechesis, Director of the Bible Apostolate, and Director of the Pastoral Centre. He also served as Secretary of the Media Commission of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) from 2013 to 2019.<o:p></o:p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5; color: rgb(33, 37, 41); font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, &quot;Noto Sans&quot;, &quot;Liberation Sans&quot;, Arial, sans-serif, &quot;Apple Color Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Symbol&quot;, &quot;Noto Color Emoji&quot;; letter-spacing: -0.6px; background-color: rgb(247, 247, 247);">He received this new appointment while serving as Syncellus (Vicar General) of the Eparchy of Irinjalakuda, a position he has held since July 2024.

Pope Leo XIV Appoints Fr. Jolly Vadakken as Apostolic Visitor for Syro-Malabar Faithful in the Gulf Countries

New Delhi, 13 November 2025, CBCI: His Holiness Pope Leo XIV
addressed the participants of the conference titled “The Dignity of Children
and Adolescents in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” held at the Clementine
Hall in the Vatican on Thursday.<o:p></o:p>

In his address, the Holy Father emphasized the urgent need
to safeguard the dignity and well-being of children and adolescents amid the
rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI). He noted that AI is transforming
key areas of daily life—including education, entertainment, and safety—and
raised concerns about its potential to manipulate young minds through
algorithms that influence their choices and preferences.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV underlined the vital role of parents and
educators in monitoring and guiding the interactions of young people with
technology. He called upon governments and international bodies to design and
enforce policies that uphold the dignity of minors, including updated data
protection laws and ethical standards for the development and use of AI.<o:p></o:p>

However, the Pope stressed that policies alone are
insufficient. “Safeguarding the dignity of minors cannot be reduced to policies
alone; it also requires a digital education,” he said, urging adults to
rediscover their vocation as “artisans of education” and to provide consistent,
value-based guidance.<o:p></o:p>

The Holy Father encouraged a collaborative and ongoing
educational effort to help young people recognize the risks of unregulated
digital access and to use technology responsibly. “Only by taking an
educational, ethical and responsible approach can we ensure that artificial
intelligence serves as an ally, and not a threat, in the growth and development
of children and adolescents,” he affirmed.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Calls for Ethical and Educational Approach to Protect Children in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

New Delhi, 11 November 2025, CBCI: The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) has expressed deep shock and profound sorrow over
the tragic car blast that occurred on the evening of November 10 near the Red
Fort in Delhi. The explosion claimed several innocent lives and left many others
injured, casting a shadow of grief across the nation.<o:p></o:p>

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the CBCI conveyed
heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of the Church’s
prayers and solidarity. “Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost
their loved ones in this unfortunate incident. We also pray for the speedy recovery
of all those who have been injured,” the statement read.<o:p></o:p>

Calling for heightened public awareness, the CBCI appealed
to citizens to remain vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious
activities or unattended objects to the police or local authorities. The
Conference also urged all Parish Priests across the country to exercise special
caution and to promptly inform the authorities about any suspicious activity or
unattended item in or around church premises.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI further called on people of goodwill to come
together in unity and prayer. “Let us uphold peace and cooperate to ensure the
safety and well-being of all citizens. Let us continue to pray for peace and
safety across our beloved nation,” the statement concluded.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Expresses Deep Grief Over Delhi Blast; Urges Vigilance and Prayer for Peace

New Delhi, 10 November , 2025,
CBCI: The CBCI takes note of the news reports dated 09-11-2025 bringing out the
statements of Mr. Mohan Bhagwat and is issuing this press release to caution all,
and in particular the Christians. The news reports had the following misleading
and deceptive statements:<o:p></o:p>

- ‘Knowingly or unknowingly, everyone follows ‘Bharateeya’(Indian)
culture- so nobody is ‘Ahindu’(non-Hindu).’ Times of India.<o:p></o:p>

-‘.. Bharat is a Hindu Rashtra. It doesn’t contradict the Constitution…’
Times of India.<o:p></o:p>

- ‘We have our views, and we want this country to go in a particular
direction.’ NDTV.<o:p></o:p>

-‘.. casteism no longer exists but caste confusion does, driven by
electoral politics and concessions. There is no need to eradicate caste; there is
need to forget caste.’ India Today.

At the outset, CBCI categorically denies
the devious suggestion that Indian Christians are also Hindu. Indian Christians
are proud Indians and proudly ‘Bharateeya’ but not Hindu. CBCI notes that even the
Supreme Court of India by a Judgment dated 11-03-2016 in Writ Petition (Civil) No.
203/2015 has rejected the plea for using the names / words like ‘Hindustan’, ‘Hind’
etc. for India.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI refutes the statement that India
is a ‘Hindu Rashtra’. We also deprecate all such nefarius attempts to convert India
into a ‘Hindu Rashtra.’ India is and will always remain a ‘SOVEREIGN SOCIALIST SECULAR&nbsp; DEMOCRATIC&nbsp;
REPUBLIC’. CBCI calls&nbsp; up&nbsp; on &nbsp;every&nbsp; Indian, and&nbsp;
in&nbsp; particular &nbsp;all Christians, to take all constitutional measures
to protect the present Constitutional character of India at any cost.<o:p></o:p>

In this context, it is important to
note the history of RSS as illustrated by the report of the Justice Venugopal Commission
constituted by the &nbsp;government to&nbsp; enquire into&nbsp;
the 1982&nbsp; Kanyakumari communal violence
against Christians. It reads as follows:<o:p></o:p>

‘The RSS (Rastriya Swayamsevak Sangh)
adopts a militant and aggressive attitude and sets itself up as the champion of
what it considers to be the rights of Hindus against minorities. It has taken upon
itself to teach the minorities their place and if they are not willing to learn
their place, to teach them a lesson. The RSS methodology for provoking communal
violence is: a) rousing communal feelings in the majority community by the propaganda
that Christians are not loyal citizens of this country; b) deepening the fear in
the majority community by a clever propaganda that the population of the minorities
is increasing and that of the Hindus is decreasing; c) infiltrating into the administration
and inducing the members of the civil and police services by adopting and developing
communal attitudes; d) training young people of the majority community in the use
of weapons like daggers, swords and spears; e) spreading rumours to widen the communal
cleavage and deepen communal feelings by giving a communal colour to any trivial
incident.’

CBCI also notices that August 2024
issue of RSS-affiliated ‘Panchjanya’ has written, ‘In the form of caste, the Indian
society understood one simple thing – betraying one’s caste was betrayal of the
nation’. &nbsp;Reading it with the rule in Manu
Smriti (1.91) that ‘only one work did the Lord ordain for Shudras, viz to ungrudgingly
serve the other three social orders’, and the above statement that ‘there is no
need to eradicate caste’, is a clear pointer of Mr. Bhagwat’s intentions. We leave
it for the people of India to have their own views on these matters. However, we
express our concern about the lowering of economic inequity in India to pre-independence
levels today because of the blatant misuse of contract labour system by government
and private sector; exploitative working hours; huge difference in calculation of
minimum wages etc. while Mr. Bhagwat who wanted to take the country to a direction
of his choice.

Christians in India have made significant contributions to our nation's
freedom struggle and to its ongoing nation-building and will continue to do so.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Refutes Mohan Bhagwat’s Claim That India Is a Hindu Rasthra

Rev. Dr. Michael Karimattam, a
distinguished Bible scholar who was honoured with the title Malpan in
recognition of his exceptional contributions to the Church in Kerala, passed
away on 6 November 2025. He had been undergoing treatment for the past few days
at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Karuvanchal. <o:p></o:p>

A priest of the Archdiocese of Thalassery
and an eminent Scripture scholar, Rev. Dr. Michael Karimattam was conferred the
Malpan title in 2022 by the decision of the Synod of Bishops of the
Syro-Malabar Church. The Synod bestows this honour upon priests who make
outstanding contributions in the fields of faith formation and faith defense
through their scholarship and preaching.<o:p></o:p>

Fr. Michael Karimattam was born on 11
August 1942. After completing his studies at Kulathuvayal High School in
Kozhikode district, he joined the Thalassery Seminary. He pursued priestly
formation in Aluva and Rome, and was ordained a priest on 29 June 1962. Later,
he earned a Doctorate in Sacred Scripture from Rome.<o:p></o:p>

He served in various key roles - as Editor
of the POC Malayalam Bible translation, Director of Sandesabhavan, Thalassery,
Principal of Divine Bible College, Chalakudy, and Professor at Mary Matha Major
Seminary, Thrissur.<o:p></o:p>

Fr. Karimattam authored more than forty
books in English and Malayalam and played a pivotal role in the preparation of
several Bible commentaries. He was honoured with special awards by St. Thomas
Pontifical Seminary, Aluva in 1999, and by Mari Vijayam magazine in
2009. In 2012, he received the KCBC Media Commission Award.<o:p></o:p>

Renowned Bible Scholar Rev. Dr. Michael Karimattam, Honoured with the Title “Malpan” for His Outstanding Contributions to the Kerala Church, Passes Away

New Delhi, 6 November 2025, CBCI: &nbsp;His Holiness Pope Leo XIV received in audience
His Excellency Mr. Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine, at the
Vatican Apostolic Palace this morning. The meeting marked the 10th anniversary
of the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement between the Holy See and the
State of Palestine, originally concluded on 26 June 2015.<o:p></o:p>

During the cordial discussions, both sides emphasized the
urgent need to provide humanitarian assistance to the civilian population in
Gaza and underscored the importance of ending the ongoing conflict through the
pursuit of a two-State solution.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Meets Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on 10th Anniversary of Holy See-Palestine Agreement

New Delhi, 6 November 2025, CBCI: His Holiness Pope Leo XIV
addressed members of the Joint Committee of the Council of European Bishops’
Conferences (CCEE), the Conference of European Churches (CEC), and
representatives of various Christian Churches of Europe in the Consistory Hall
at the Vatican.<o:p></o:p>

In his address, the Holy Father warmly welcomed the
participants who have gathered to sign the renewed Charta Oecumenica
near the site of St. Paul’s martyrdom. Reflecting on the document’s 25th
anniversary, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of revisiting its context
in light of evolving challenges faced by Christians in Europe.<o:p></o:p>

The Pope noted that while there are encouraging signs of
growth in some regions, many Christian communities now find themselves in the
minority amid increasing cultural diversity and conflict. He called for deeper
dialogue, unity, and fraternity, urging the faithful to rely on “the grace,
mercy, and peace of the Lord” to proclaim Christ effectively in today’s world.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV described the renewed Charta Oecumenica
as “a testimony to the willingness of the Churches in Europe to look at our
history through the eyes of Christ,” encouraging openness to the Holy Spirit in
discerning new paths of evangelization.<o:p></o:p>

Highlighting the link between synodality and ecumenism, he
stated, “In the Catholic Church, the synodal journey is ecumenical, just as the
ecumenical journey is synodal.”<o:p></o:p>

The Holy Father also announced his upcoming pilgrimage to
Nicaea, where he plans to meet and pray with leaders of Christian communities
to celebrate Jesus Christ as “our Lord and Saviour.” Concluding his address,
Pope Leo XIV expressed his hope that, in this Jubilee Year, Europe may once
again proclaim with conviction that “Jesus Christ is our Hope.”<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Addresses European Christian Leaders on Renewal of Charta Oecumenica

Doctrinal Note on Marian titles: Mother of the faithful, not Co-redemptrix

New Delhi, 5 November 2025, CBCI: The Episcopal Ordination
of Most Reverend James Patteril as the Second Bishop of the Eparchy of
Belthangady was solemnly held today on 5 November 2025 in the presence of
thousands of faithful, priests, and religious. The ceremony was led by Major
Archbishop Raphael Thattil, Head of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, who
served as the principal celebrant. He was joined by Archbishop Joseph Pamplany
of the Tellicherry Metropolitan Archdiocese, Most Reverend Lawrence Mukkuzhy
and forty-four Bishops from across India. More than four hundred priests,
numerous religious sisters, and thousands of faithful attended the sacred
event.<o:p></o:p>

Following the ordination, a public felicitation ceremony was
organized to congratulate the new Bishop and to express heartfelt gratitude to
the retiring Bishop, Most Reverend Lawrence Mukkuzhy, who led the Eparchy for
26 years.<o:p></o:p>

Speaking at the event, Archbishop Andrews Thazhath,
President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), praised the new
Bishop, saying, “It is certain that Most Reverend James is at the forefront
of providing services that benefit the people, and this will certainly be good
for the Eparchy of Belthangady and for the nation.”<o:p></o:p>

Extending his greetings, Msgr. Andrea Francia, Deputy of the
Apostolic Nuncio, congratulated the new Bishop and lauded the service of the
retiring Bishop, remarking that “the difficult sacrifices and dedicated
service rendered by Reverend Lawrence over the past 26 years, carried out with
love and loyalty, are impossible to describe.”<o:p></o:p>

Expressing his gratitude to God, Bishop James Patteril said
that “what God has given me is not authority, but the responsibility of
serving the people.” He thanked all the Bishops, priests, religious, and
faithful for their prayers and presence, seeking their continued blessings in
his new ministry.<o:p></o:p>

In his farewell address, Bishop Lawrence Mukkuzhy thanked
God for his years of ministry and expressed sincere gratitude to all who
supported him in his pastoral mission. He also extended his heartfelt wishes to
his successor.<o:p></o:p>

Most Rev. James Patteril Ordained as Second Bishop of Belthangady Eparchy

New Delhi, 2 November &nbsp;2025, CBCI: &nbsp;Archbishop Mar Kuriakose Bharanikulangara
officially assumed office as the first Metropolitan Archbishop of the newly
elevated Archdiocese of Faridabad of the Syro-Malabar Church. The solemn
installation ceremony was held on Sunday, 2 November at 2:30 p.m. at the Talkatora
Indoor Stadium, New Delhi, specially prepared for the occasion.<o:p></o:p>

The Archdiocese of Faridabad, originally erected as a
diocese on March 6, 2012, was formally elevated to an archdiocese during the
ceremony, which was witnessed by thousands of faithful, along with prominent religious,
cultural, and political leaders.<o:p></o:p>

Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil, head of the
Syro-Malabar Church, presided over the installation ceremony. Among the
co-celebrants were CBCI President Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, Delhi
Archdiocesan Archbishop and CBCI Secretary General Archbishop Anil Couto, Archbishop
Joseph Pamplany of Thalassery, and Archbishop Thomas Tharayil, Metropolitan of
Changanassery. Auxiliary Bishop Jose Puthenveettil welcomed the gathering.<o:p></o:p>

During the ceremony, the decree of elevation of the Diocese
of Faridabad to an Archdiocese issued by the Synod of Bishops of the
Syro-Malabar Church, and the Papal Bull appointing Mar Kuriakose
Bharanikulangara as the first Archbishop were read out. <o:p></o:p>

Following this, the solemn Holy Qurbana was celebrated,
presided over by Archbishop Bharanikulangara, with the participation of 27
bishops, over 100 priests, religious men and women, and more than 2,000
faithful from various parishes of the Archdiocese of Faridabad. Monsignor
Andrea Francis, representing the Apostolic Nuncio, was also present at the
ceremony.<o:p></o:p>

After the Eucharistic celebration and thanksgiving, a felicitation
meeting was held, attended by Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and George Kurian,
and K.V. Thomas, Kerala’s special representative in New Delhi. Union Minister
Hardeep Singh Puri conveyed his greetings through a video message.<o:p></o:p>

Official Proclamation of the Archdiocese of Faridabad and the Installation of its First Metropolitan Archbishop Mar Kuriakose Bharanikulangara

New Delhi, 1 November 2025, CBCI: As
part of the Prison Ministry India (PMI) Jubilee Convention, His Eminence
Cardinal Michael Czerny SJ visited the PMI Rehabilitation Centre at
Snehashramam, Vettukad, Thrissur, marking a deeply symbolic and grace-filled
moment in the ministry’s 40-year journey of compassion and rehabilitation.<o:p></o:p>

Upon arrival, Cardinal Czerny blessed the
newly erected St. Dismas Shrine, dedicated to the Good Thief who, as Scripture
recounts, received the first “stamped visa to heaven” from Jesus. The Public
Meeting that followed began with a heartfelt prayer led by the inmates, a
moving testimony to the power of faith and transformation.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Fr. Varghese Karippery, the first
Director of Snehashramam and one of PMI’s founders, offered the introduction,
recalling the ministry’s four decades of mercy and renewal. His Grace Most Rev.
Mar Andrews Thazhath, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India
(CBCI) and Archbishop of Thrissur, welcomed the gathering and reaffirmed the
Church’s unwavering support for PMI’s mission to bring hope and healing behind
prison walls.<o:p></o:p>

In his Presidential Address, Cardinal
Czerny commended India’s unique witness to the Gospel of mercy, saying, “Every
act of compassion opens a door—not only for the prisoner, but for the entire
society to be healed and renewed.”<o:p></o:p>

Most Rev. Fr. Siby Njavallikunnel CMF,
Provincial Superior of the St. Thomas Province, and Rev. Fr. George
Kannamthanam CMF delivered Benedictory Addresses, highlighting the fruitful
collaboration between religious congregations and PMI in advancing rehabilitation
and reintegration programmes across the country.<o:p></o:p>

A touching moment came when Cardinal Czerny
handed over the key to a newly built house to Mrs. Mary Louis, symbolizing
PMI’s tangible commitment to rebuilding lives and restoring dignity beyond
incarceration.<o:p></o:p>

The ceremony concluded with a Vote of
Thanks by Rev. Dr. Francis Kodiyan MCBS, CBCI Secretary to PMI, who expressed
gratitude to bishops, clergy, religious, volunteers, and benefactors supporting
the ministry’s mission. The final act—the planting of a tree, watered by
dignitaries during the inaugural day—stood as a living symbol of faith, hope,
and growth rooted in mercy.<o:p></o:p>

The PMI Jubilee Convention 2025 thus came
to a close in an atmosphere of thanksgiving and renewed dedication to the
mission of transforming lives through prayer, compassion, and justice, shining
forth its theme: “Fallen humans may rise again on wings of prayer.”<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

Cardinal Michael Czerny Blesses St. Dismas Shrine at PMI Rehabilitation Centre, Thrissur: A Celebration of Mercy, Renewal, and Hope

New Delhi, 31 October 2025: The Prison Ministry India (PMI) Jubilee Convention, marking a
milestone in the mission of faith, compassion, and rehabilitation, concluded
with the Valedictory Session on 30 October and the Closing Eucharistic
Celebration on 31 October 2025 at NESTT, Muvattupuzha.<o:p></o:p>

The Valedictory Session opened with a
prayer led by the PMI Ernakulam Zone, invoking divine grace on the mission and
its volunteers. Rev. Dr. Francis Kodiyan MCBS, CBCI Secretary to Prison
Ministry India and National Coordinator, welcomed the dignitaries and
participants, recognizing the unwavering service of volunteers who have carried
forward PMI’s transformative journey.<o:p></o:p>

His Beatitude Most Rev. Mar Raphael
Thattil, Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, delivered the Inaugural
Address, underscoring the spiritual core of restorative justice. “The Gospel
calls us not merely to reform systems but to restore persons—to see Christ in
every prisoner,” he said. He also released “The Beginning”, a book by
Rev. Fr. Varghese Karippery, one of PMI’s founders, documenting the ministry’s
early years of faith and compassion.<o:p></o:p>

In his Presidential Address, His Eminence
Cardinal Michael Czerny SJ, Prefect of the Dicastery for Integral Human
Development, Vatican City, praised PMI for embodying the Church’s social
mission. “When mercy touches broken humanity, both are transformed—the giver
and the receiver,” he said. He also released “PMI Rehabilitation Centers:
Theories and Praxes”, authored by Rev. Dr. Francis Kodiyan MCBS, a detailed
study on prison rehabilitation in India’s socio-spiritual context.<o:p></o:p>

Most Rev. Mar Jose Pulickal, CBCI
Chairperson for PMI, in his Benedictory Address, highlighted the ministry’s
prophetic role in restoring dignity to the marginalized. He released “Beyond
Bars – A New Dawn for Life after Incarceration” by Sr. Amala DC, featuring
stories of transformation. Successive addresses by Most Rev. Allwyn D’Silva,
former Chairperson of PMI, and Most Rev. Peter Remigius, the first Chairperson,
included the release of “Rehoboth – From Prison to Purpose” by Sr.
Santan Nago FS and the PMI Jubilee Souvenir compiled by Prof. Edmund Frank.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Fr. Varghese Karippery, Cofounder of
PMI, delivered a heartfelt reflection recalling divine guidance in the
ministry’s growth from humble beginnings to a global mission. Volunteers were
honoured by Cardinal Czerny for their committed service to prisoners.<o:p></o:p>

Sr. Amala DC, National Secretary of PMI,
proposed the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to bishops, clergy,
volunteers, and benefactors who contributed to the Jubilee’s success.<o:p></o:p>

The event concluded with the motto “Ad
Majorem Dei Gloriam – To the Greater Glory of God” and the enduring Gospel
call: “I was in prison, and you visited me” (Mt 25:36).<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

Prison Ministry India Jubilee Convention Concludes with a Call to Restore Dignity and Hope

New Delhi, 1 November 2025 CBCI: His Holiness Pope Leo XIV
has appointed Rev. Fr. Simon Almeida, of the clergy of the Diocese of Poona, as
the new Bishop of Poona. Until now, he has been serving as the Deputy Secretary
of the Western Region Bishops’ Council.<o:p></o:p>

Bishop-elect Simon Almeida was born on November 4, 1960, in
Ghas, now part of the Diocese of Vasai. He pursued Philosophy and Theology at
St. Pius X College, Mumbai, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in
Psychology and a Master of Arts in Sociology from the University of Bombay, as
well as a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies from Manila University, Quezon
City, Philippines.<o:p></o:p>

He was ordained a priest on April 1, 1990, for the Diocese
of Poona.<o:p></o:p>

Throughout his priestly ministry, he has held various
pastoral and administrative responsibilities: Assistant Parish Priest of St.
Patrick’s Cathedral, Poona (1990–1994); Assistant Parish Priest of St.
Ignatius, Kirkee (1994–1996); Diocesan Director for Youth (1996–2000); Rector
of the Minor Seminary (2002–2003); Parish Priest of St. Patrick’s Cathedral,
Poona (2003–2008); Member of the Presbyteral Council (since 2003); Parish
Priest of St. Francis Xavier’s, Chinchwad (2008–2013); Member of the College of
Consultors (since 2009); Treasurer of the Diocese of Poona (2010–2015); Parish
Priest of St. Anne’s, Solapur Bazaar (2013–2019); and Parish Priest of St. John
Paul II, Wakad (2019–2023).<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Appoints Rev. Fr. Simon Almeida as New Bishop of Poona

New Delhi, 30 October 2025, CBCI:&nbsp;Meeting with thousands of students gathered in the Audience Hall for the Jubilee of the World of Education, Pope Leo XIV delivered an inspiring address centered on faith, learning, and peace.<o:p></o:p>“What a joy it is to meet you!” the Holy Father began, recalling his own years as a teacher of mathematics and physics. He encouraged young people to live life fully, echoing the words of newly canonized Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati: “To live without faith is not living but simply getting along.”&nbsp;The Pope urged the youth to keep striving “toward the heights,” and to be remembered as the “generation plus” — one that brings an extra spark of hope and creativity to the Church and the world.<o:p></o:p>He emphasized that such transformation begins through education, describing it as “one of the most beautiful and powerful tools for changing the world.” Referring to the Global Compact on Education&nbsp;launched by Pope Francis, the Pontiff reminded students that they are not merely recipients but protagonists of education. He invited them to become truth-speakers and peace-makers, inspiring their peers through integrity, dialogue, and compassion.<o:p></o:p>Drawing on the examples of Saints Pier Giorgio Frassati and John Henry Newman, Pope Leo compared education to the stars that guide humanity. “Each of you is a star, and together you are called to guide the future… Those who lead many to righteousness shall shine like the stars forever (Dan 12:3),” he said.<o:p></o:p>The Pope also identified three major challenges for today’s youth. First, he called for the formation of the interior life, emphasizing the need for silence, prayer, and self-understanding amid the restlessness of modern life. Second, he spoke about digital education, urging young people to use technology wisely and not let “the algorithm write your story.” Third, he highlighted education for peace, calling on the young to foster reconciliation and fraternity by disarming hearts and rejecting violence and division.<o:p></o:p>Recalling the example of Saint Carlo Acutis, who used the internet as a tool for evangelization, Pope Leo encouraged students to “humanize the digital” and to be “prophets in the digital world,” not passive consumers.<o:p></o:p>Concluding his address, the Pope invited the young people to look beyond fleeting pleasures and temporary trends. “Do not look to shooting stars, on which fragile wishes are entrusted. Look higher still, toward Jesus Christ, the sun of righteousness, who will always guide you along the paths of life,” he said.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV to Students: “Be Truth-Speakers, Peace-Makers, and Prophets in the Digital World

New Delhi, 31 October 2025, CBCI, In a thrilling World Cup semi-final clash, India scripted a memorable victory over defending champions Australia, thanks to a sensational performance by Jemimah Rodrigues. The Indian batter smashed a blistering 127 runs, guiding her team to a successful chase of 339 and securing a spot in the final.<o:p></o:p>Speaking at the post-match presentation, Jemimah expressed deep gratitude for divine guidance throughout the game. “Firstly, I want to thank Jesus, because I couldn’t do this on my own,” she said, attributing her success to her faith.<o:p></o:p>Rodrigues also drew inspiration from Scripture, quoting Exodus 14:14: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”&nbsp;Her heartfelt testimony of faith added a powerful dimension to her record-breaking knock, making the victory even more inspiring for fans around the world.<o:p></o:p>

Jemimah Rodrigues Credits Faith in Christ After Match-Winning Century Against Australia

New Delhi, 30 October 2025, CBCI: Pope
Leo XIV held his weekly General Audience on Wednesday, 29 October, in St.
Peter’s Square, meeting pilgrims and faithful from Italy and around the world.
Welcoming them warmly, he greeted, “Dear brothers and sisters, pilgrims of
faith and representatives of different religious traditions! Good morning,
welcome!”<o:p></o:p>

In his catechesis, Pope Leo XIV dedicated
the audience to the theme of interreligious dialogue, drawing inspiration from
the Gospel encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman. Quoting the Lord’s
words—“God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and
truth” (Jn 4:24)—the Pope reflected on the profound meaning of dialogue
rooted in openness, sincerity, and mutual enrichment. He emphasized that this
exchange is born of a shared thirst: “God’s thirst for the human heart and the
human thirst for God.”<o:p></o:p>

At the well of Sychar, the Pope noted,
Jesus transcended barriers of culture, gender, and religion, inviting the
Samaritan woman to understand worship beyond physical places—“neither on this
mountain nor in Jerusalem”—but rather in Spirit and truth. This, the Holy
Father said, reveals the heart of authentic interreligious dialogue: the
discovery of God’s presence beyond every boundary and the invitation to seek
Him together in reverence and humility.<o:p></o:p>

Recalling the 60th anniversary of the
Second Vatican Council’s Declaration Nostra Aetate, promulgated on 28
October 1965, Pope Leo XIV highlighted its enduring legacy of encounter,
respect, and spiritual hospitality. He described the document as a “luminous
guide” that calls believers to view followers of other religions not as
strangers but as companions on the path of truth. The declaration, he said,
teaches the Church to honor differences while affirming the common humanity
that unites all peoples.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV also reflected on the special
relationship between the Church and the Jewish people, recalling that Nostra
Aetate first sought to renew this foundational bond. Citing the document,
he reaffirmed: “The people of the New Testament are spiritually linked with
the lineage of Abraham… The Church of Christ recognizes that the beginnings of
its faith and its election are already found in the patriarchs, in Moses, and
in the prophets.” The Pope strongly reiterated the Church’s consistent
rejection of anti-Semitism, declaring, “The Church does not tolerate
anti-Semitism and combats it, for the sake of the Gospel itself.”<o:p></o:p>

Expressing gratitude for six decades of
Jewish-Catholic dialogue, the Holy Father acknowledged that while
misunderstandings and difficulties have occurred, they have never halted the
journey of friendship and cooperation. “We must not allow political circumstances
or injustices to deter us from this friendship,” he said.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV emphasized that the spirit of Nostra
Aetate continues to illuminate the Church’s path, recognizing that all
religions can reflect “a ray of that truth which enlightens all men.” Dialogue,
he said, must be not only intellectual but deeply spiritual—rooted in love,
which is the true foundation of peace, justice, and reconciliation. He called
upon bishops, clergy, religious, and lay faithful to promote all that is good,
true, and holy in the traditions of other faiths.<o:p></o:p>

Addressing the challenges of the modern
world, the Holy Father urged all religions to work together for peace, justice,
and the protection of human dignity. “Let us act together,” he appealed. “Our
world needs unity, friendship, and collaboration. Each of our religions can
help alleviate suffering and care for our common home.” He also drew attention
to the ethical concerns surrounding artificial intelligence, warning that if it
becomes an alternative to humanity, it could “gravely violate human dignity and
neutralize fundamental responsibility.”<o:p></o:p>

Reaffirming the moral role of religion,
Pope Leo XIV said that peace begins in the human heart. “Religion can play a
fundamental role in restoring hope—to our personal lives, our families, our
schools, our nations, and our world,” he said. “This hope is grounded in our
faith and in the belief that a new world is possible.”<o:p></o:p>

Concluding his address, the Holy Father
invited all present to rekindle the hope that Nostra Aetate brought to a
post-war world sixty years ago. “Today we are called to reestablish that same
hope in our war-torn world and our wounded environment,” he said. “Let us work
together, because if we are united, everything is possible. Let nothing divide
us.”<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV concluded the audience with a
moment of silent prayer, reminding the faithful that prayer has the power “to
transform our attitudes, our thoughts, our words, and our actions.”<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

Pope Leo XIV at General Audience: “Let Us Act Together for Peace, Dialogue, and the Dignity of Every Human Being

New Delhi, 29 October 2025 (CBCI): The
first-ever International Convention of Prison Ministry India (PMI) opened with
solemnity and hope on 29 October 2025 at NESTT, Muvattupuzha, Kerala, under the
inspiring theme “Fallen Humans May Rise Again on Wings of Prayer.” The
inaugural ceremony marked a historic milestone in the mission of PMI,
reflecting its unwavering commitment to bring faith, rehabilitation, and
dignity to those behind bars.<o:p></o:p>

The ceremony began with a prayer song led
by Rev. Fr. Jins Pulickal and the Hail Mary Band (KLM), setting a deeply
spiritual tone for the gathering. The Bible reading was delivered by Very Rev.
Fr. Vincent Nedungatt, Vicar General and the first prayer group member of PMI,
followed by a moment of prayer led by Rev. Fr. Joseph Mackolli, KCBC’s first
Director for PMI.<o:p></o:p>

In his introductory talk, Rev. Dr. Francis
Kodiyan MCBS, Co-Founder of PMI and CBCI Secretary to PMI, traced the humble
beginnings of the movement and highlighted its transformative impact across
India’s prison systems. He recalled the countless volunteers who brought
Christ’s compassion to the most marginalized and reaffirmed PMI’s mission of
spiritual and social reintegration for prisoners.<o:p></o:p>

A warm welcome was extended by Most Rev.
Mar George Madathikandathil, Bishop of Kothamangalam, and Rev. Sr. Amala DC,
National Secretary of PMI. A symbolic act of watering the plant represented
growth, renewal, and the nurturing of hope through prayer and service.<o:p></o:p>

His Eminence Anthony Cardinal Poola,
Archbishop of Hyderabad, delivered the Inaugural Address, commending PMI for
embodying the Church’s call to mercy. “Every prisoner is a human being with a
divine spark,” he said. “Through faith and compassion, we help them rediscover
that light.” His Eminence captivated the gathering by singing a Telugu hymn in
his rich, melodious voice, filling the atmosphere with reverence and emotion.
He also lauded the exemplary work of Rev. Dr. Francis Kodiyan MCBS in the field
of prison rehabilitation, emphasizing the mission of Jesus’ mercy toward those
who seek forgiveness and renewal.<o:p></o:p>

On this occasion, Fr. Savio from Goa read
out a message from Cardinal Philip Neri, who conveyed his blessings and good
wishes to all participants, encouraging them to continue the mission of Prison
Ministry India with renewed zeal.<o:p></o:p>

In his Presidential Address, Most Rev. Mar
Jose Pulickal, CBCI Chairperson to PMI, emphasized that true freedom is found
in forgiveness and conversion. His Eminence Cardinal Poola and Bishop Pulickal
together released the book “From Captivity to Calling – The Legacy of Prison
Ministry India,” authored by Rev. Dr. Francis Kodiyan MCBS.<o:p></o:p>

The event also witnessed the release of
several other significant publications that enriched the intellectual and
spiritual dimensions of the convention. An Inner Spiritual Journey Through
Prison Walls by Sr. Marina Gulati CSJ was released by Most Rev. Peter
Remigius, former CBCI Chairperson to PMI. Chains to Wings – Stories of Grace
from Prison Ministry by Sr. Sherly Kidangan OSB was released by Most Rev.
Mar George Punnakkottill, Bishop Emeritus of Kothamangalam. Understanding
Crime, Prison and Forensics by Prof. Edmund Frank was released by Very Rev.
Fr. Mathew Koyickal, CBCI Deputy Secretary General, Delhi, and Fr. Varghese
Karippery. Each publication reflected a unique aspect of PMI’s holistic
mission—embracing spirituality, psychology, criminology, and pastoral care.<o:p></o:p>

The ceremony also included a special moment
to honour Mr. Mathew Albin for his distinguished service to prison ministry,
recognizing his years of dedication and compassion.<o:p></o:p>

The inaugural session concluded with a Vote
of Thanks delivered by Rev. Fr. Martin Thatil, PMI South Regional Coordinator,
followed by a group photograph of His Eminence the Cardinal, Bishops, Priests,
Religious, and lay delegates—symbolizing unity in service.<o:p></o:p>

The opening of PMI’s Jubilee Convention
stood as a powerful testimony to the Church’s mission of mercy, reaffirming
that no life is beyond redemption. Echoing multiple papal writings and
encyclicals, the message resounded: “There is no cell in the world that can
be isolated from God’s love and mercy.”<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

First International Convention of Prison Ministry India Opens with the Message: “Fallen Humans May Rise Again on Wings of Prayer

New Delhi, 28 October 2025, CBCI: His
Holiness Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful appeal for global peace and
reconciliation during the Meeting for Prayer for Peace held at the
Colosseum on Tuesday, in the presence of leaders from various Christian
Churches and world religions.<o:p></o:p>

“We have prayed for peace according to our
diverse religious traditions, and we are now gathered together to proclaim a
message of reconciliation,” the Pope said, emphasizing that “war is no help in
dealing with conflicts” and that “peace is a constant journey of
reconciliation.”<o:p></o:p>

Thanking the religious leaders for their
presence and prayers, the Holy Father underscored the transformative power of
prayer: “The human heart must be open to peace. It is through meditation that
we open our hearts, and in prayer that we go beyond ourselves. Prayer changes
the course of history.”<o:p></o:p>

Recalling the historic interfaith encounter
convened by Saint John Paul II in Assisi on 27 October 1986, Pope Leo XIV
highlighted the enduring “spirit of Assisi,” which continues to inspire
dialogue and friendship among religions. “Today, it seems that the world has
gone in the opposite direction,” he said, “but we embrace the challenge of
Assisi and the awareness of our shared task and responsibility for peace.”<o:p></o:p>

Marking the 60th anniversary of the Second
Vatican Council’s Declaration Nostra Aetate, the Pope reaffirmed the
Church’s commitment to dialogue and fraternity: “We cannot truly pray to God as
Father of all if we treat any people as other than sisters and brothers, for
all are created in God’s image.”<o:p></o:p>

Referring to the words of Pope Francis
addressed to last year’s interreligious meeting in Paris, Pope Leo XIV warned
against the misuse of religion for political ends: “War is never holy; only
peace is holy, because it is willed by God.”<o:p></o:p>

The Pope made a heartfelt plea to world
leaders, urging them to end the culture of conflict and embrace dialogue and
negotiation as the true paths to peace. “To put an end to war is a solemn duty
before God incumbent on all those holding political responsibilities,” he said.
“Peace is the priority of all politics. God will ask an accounting of those who
failed to seek peace.”<o:p></o:p>

Echoing the words of the Venerable Giorgio
La Pira, he called for “a new era of world history: the era of negotiation, the
era of a world without war.”<o:p></o:p>

Concluding his address, Pope Leo XIV voiced
a fervent prayer: “Enough of war! This is the cry of the poor and the cry of
the earth. Enough! Lord, hear our cry! Even if the world turns a deaf ear, God
will hear the cries of those who suffer. God wants a world without war. He will
free us from this evil.”<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

Pope Leo XIV Calls for End to War at Interfaith Prayer Meeting for Peace at the Colosseum

New
Delhi, 27 October 2025, CBCI: Following the official announcement of his
appointment as Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bombay, Rev. Dr. Stephen
Fernandes visited the CBCI Centre, New Delhi, on Monday, 27 October.<o:p></o:p>

Until
now, Bishop-elect Stephen Fernandes had been serving as a member of the staff
at the Apostolic Nunciature in New Delhi and residing at the CBCI Centre during
his tenure. His Holiness Pope Leo XIV appointed Rev. Fr. Stephen Fernandes of
the Archdiocese of Bombay as Auxiliary Bishop of the same Archdiocese on 25
October 2025.<o:p></o:p>

To
mark the occasion, Bishop-elect Stephen Fernandes presided over the Holy Mass
at the CBCI Centre Chapel, concelebrated with Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy
Secretary General of the CBCI, and other secretaries of various CBCI offices.
In his words of welcome, Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal extended warm greetings and
assured the prayers and support of the CBCI Centre family.<o:p></o:p>

After
the Eucharistic celebration, a short felicitation programme was held at the
CBCI refectory. Rev. Adv. Asha Paul, Secretary of the CBCI Office for Women,
felicitated the Bishop-elect with a garland, while Rev. Fr. Jesu Das, Director
of Caritas India, honoured him with a shawl. Rev. Adv. Nirdosh Ekka, Secretary
of the CBCI Office for Tribal Affairs, who is also celebrating his birthday
today, joined in felicitating the Bishop-elect. The CBCI Centre community,
along with the Rev. Sisters, shared in the joy of the newly appointed Auxiliary
Bishop.<o:p></o:p>

The
event was coordinated by Rev. Fr. B. Selvadhas, House Minister of the CBCI
Centre. Bishop-elect Stephen Fernandes expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all
gathered for their prayers, support, and affection.

Reception Held for Bishop-elect Stephen Fernandes at CBCI Centre, New Delhi

New Delhi, 25 October 2025, CBCI: Pope Leo
XIV has appointed Rev. Fr. Antony Kattiparambil, who has been serving as the
Judicial Vicar of the Diocese of Cochin, as the new Bishop of the same Diocese.<o:p></o:p>

Bishop-elect Antony Kattiparambil was born
on October 14, 1970, in the parish of Mundamvely in the Diocese of Cochin.
After completing his schooling, he joined Mount Carmel Petit Seminary, Fort
Cochin, in 1986 and completed his minor seminary formation in 1990. He then
pursued his philosophical studies at St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary, Alwaye.
Following his regency, he continued his theological studies at the Pontifical
Urban University (Università Urbaniana), Rome, where he also obtained a
Licentiate in Biblical Theology between 1996 and 1998.<o:p></o:p>

He was ordained a priest on August 15,
1998, for the Diocese of Cochin.<o:p></o:p>

From 1998 to 2002, he served as Assistant
Parish Priest at Santa Cruz Basilica, Fort Cochin, and at St. Sebastian’s
Church, Thoppumpady (2002–2003). In 2003, he was sent to the Diocese of Prato
in Italy for pastoral work, serving as Pastoral Assistant at the Church of St.
Francis (2003–2005). Upon his return, he was appointed Administrator of St.
Joseph’s Church, Kumbalanghi (2005–2010).<o:p></o:p>

He later returned to Italy, serving as
Pastoral Assistant at the Parish of Santi Sisinio, Martirio e Alessandro,
Brivio, Milan (2010–2013), and subsequently at San Pio V, Rome (2013–2016).
During this period, he earned a Licentiate in Canon Law from the Pontifical
Urban University, Rome.<o:p></o:p>

Upon his return to India, he was appointed
Parish Priest of St. Martin’s Church, Kallanchery (2016–2021). Since 2016, he
has served as Judicial Vicar of the Diocese of Cochin and, from 2023, as Parish
Priest of St. Joseph’s Church, Kumbalam. He also served as Episcopal Vicar for
Religious from 2023 to 2024.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Appoints Rev. Fr. Antony Kattiparambil as New Bishop of the Diocese of Cochin

New Delhi, 25 October 2025, CBCI: Pope
Leo XIV has appointed Rev. Fr. Stephen Fernandes of the Archdiocese of Bombay,
currently serving as a member of the staff at the Apostolic Nunciature in New
Delhi, as the Titular Bishop of Abbir Maius (Abbiritanus) and Auxiliary
Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bombay.<o:p></o:p>

Bishop-elect Stephen Fernandes was born on
September 20, 1961. He completed his early education at Our Lady of Salvation
High School, Dadar, and Don Bosco High School, Matunga. After his studies, he
taught at Our Lady of Salvation High School, Dadar, from 1981 to 1983.
Responding to his vocation, he joined the seminary in 1983 and pursued his
Philosophical and Theological studies at St. Pius X College, the Archdiocesan
Seminary of Bombay at Goregaon, from 1983 to 1990. He was ordained a priest on
March 31, 1990.<o:p></o:p>

Following his ordination, he served the
Archdiocese in various pastoral and academic capacities as Assistant Parish
Priest at St. John the Evangelist Church, Marol (1990–1992), Lecturer in Sacred
Scripture and Moral Theology at St. Pius X College (1992–1994), Secretary of
the Archdiocesan Priests Council (1991–1994; 2004–2007), and as a Member of the
Archdiocesan Pastoral Council and Deanery Catechetical and Youth Coordinator
(1990–1992).<o:p></o:p>

He later pursued higher studies in Rome
and obtained a Doctorate in Moral Theology from the Accademia Alfonsiana,
affiliated with the Pontifical Lateran University, in 2000. Upon returning to
India, he was appointed Professor of Ethics and Moral Theology, Church
Documents, and Patrology at St. Pius X College, Mumbai, where he served as
Resident Professor from 2000 to 2018 and as Visiting Professor from 2018
onwards. Over the years, he has held several significant responsibilities,
including Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Doctrine and Theology
(2010–2018), Ecclesiastical Advisor of the Catholic Medical Guild of St. Luke,
Mumbai (2001 onwards), Executive Director of the F.I.A.M.C. Bio-Medical Ethics
Centre (2008–2018) and its Principal Consultant from 2018, Secretary of the
Permanent Diaconate Programme of the Archdiocese of Bombay (2004–2018), and Executive
Committee Member of the Cardinal Paul Poupard Foundation Chair of
Inter-Cultural and Inter-Religious Dialogue at St. Andrew’s College, Mumbai
(2008–2018).<o:p></o:p>

He also served as National Ecclesiastical
Advisor to the Catholic Nurses Guild of India (2013 onwards), National
Secretary of the CBCI Office for Justice, Peace and Development (2015–2023),
and as Catholic Theologian on the Baptist–Catholic Dialogue of the Pontifical
Council for Promoting Christian Unity, Vatican City (2017–2023). Since
September 2018, Bishop-elect Fernandes has been serving as a member of the
staff at the Apostolic Nunciature to India and Nepal in New Delhi.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Appoints Rev. Dr. Stephen Fernandes as New Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bombay

New Delhi, 23 October 2025, CBCI: Archbishop Andrews
Thazhath, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), along
with Cardinal George Koovakad, met with His Eminence Pietro Cardinal Parolin,
Vatican Secretary of State, at the Vatican on 23 October 2025.<o:p></o:p>

During the meeting, which lasted for about one and a half
hours, they discussed in detail various aspects concerning the Indian Catholic
Church. Archbishop Thazhath extended an official invitation to Cardinal Parolin
to inaugurate the forthcoming CBCI General Assembly, scheduled to be held at
St. John’s Medical College, Bangalore, from 4 to 10 February 2026.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI President also presented Cardinal Parolin with
copies of the letter addressed to the Holy Father Pope Leo XIV, inviting him to
visit India, along with a comprehensive report on the Indian Catholic Church.<o:p></o:p>

The discussion also touched upon the possibilities of
meetings with Indian political and religious leaders. Cardinal Parolin assured
that the final decision would be conveyed soon.<o:p></o:p>

Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, CBCI President Meets Vatican Secretary of State; Invites Cardinal Parolin to Inaugurate CBCI General Assembly in India

New Delhi, 23 October 2025, CBCI: King Charles III and Queen
Camilla of the United Kingdom joined His Holiness Pope Leo XIV for an
ecumenical Midday Prayer service in the Sistine Chapel, marking a historic
moment in Anglican–Catholic relations during the royal couple’s official state
visit to the Vatican.<o:p></o:p>

Earlier in the morning, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace,
Pope Leo XIV received Their Majesties in audience. King Charles III also held a
meeting with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of His Holiness,
accompanied by Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with
States and International Organizations.<o:p></o:p>

During the cordial discussions at the Secretariat of State,
both parties expressed appreciation for the good bilateral relations between
the Holy See and the United Kingdom. They also addressed issues of mutual
concern, including environmental protection, the fight against poverty, and the
shared commitment to promoting peace and global security. Particular attention
was given to the ongoing efforts to strengthen ecumenical dialogue.<o:p></o:p>

Following the meetings, Pope Leo XIV, King Charles III, and
Queen Camilla gathered in the Sistine Chapel for a solemn prayer service led
jointly by the Holy Father and the Most Reverend Stephen Cottrell, the
Archbishop of York and Primate of England. The service included the chanting of
psalms and a Gospel reading beneath Michelangelo’s renowned frescoes.<o:p></o:p>

The ecumenical gathering was attended by several
distinguished church leaders, including Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of
Westminster and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and
Wales, and Archbishop Leo Cushley of St Andrews and Edinburgh, representing the
Scottish episcopate.<o:p></o:p>

The occasion was hailed as a significant gesture of unity
and shared faith between the Catholic Church and the Anglican Communion.<o:p></o:p>

King Charles and Queen Camilla Join Pope Leo XIV for Ecumenical Prayer in Sistine Chapel

New Delhi, 23 October 2025, CBCI: Pope Leo XIV has once
again reaffirmed his firm stance against all forms of abuse within the Church,
declaring that “there can be no tolerance for any form of abuse.” The Holy
Father made this appeal in a message addressed to the National Safeguarding
Conference, held in Clark-Angeles, Philippines, from 20–24 October 2025.
The message was conveyed on his behalf by Archbishop Charles J. Brown,
Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, to Archbishop Florentino G. Lavarias,
Chairman of the Office on the Protection of Minors of the Catholic Bishops’
Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).<o:p></o:p>

Expressing deep appreciation for the organizers and
participants of the conference, Pope Leo XIV urged the Church to ensure that
every parish and pastoral space remains a safe and nurturing environment for
all, especially children and the vulnerable. “The Church is our spiritual
home,” the Pope stated. “Every parish and pastoral activity is meant to be a
space in which we glorify God and care for others, especially children and the
vulnerable. I renew my appeal that there can be no tolerance for any form of
abuse in the Church.”<o:p></o:p>

The Pope also highlighted the need for “essential policies
and practices that ensure transparency in dealing with cases,” stressing that
these measures must foster “a culture of prevention” and safeguard “these
little ones of the Lord.” Encouraging the Church in the Philippines and beyond,
Pope Leo XIV said that through such commitment, “the Church will be a more
authentic witness of Christ, the Good Shepherd, who always loves and cares for
His flock.” Concluding his message, the Holy Father entrusted all those
participating in the conference to the maternal protection of the Blessed
Virgin Mary and imparted his Apostolic Blessing.<o:p></o:p>

News Courtesy: Vatican News&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Calls for ‘Zero Tolerance’ on Abuse in the Church

New Delhi, 22 October 2025, CBCI: During his Wednesday
General Audience on 22 October 2025 in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV offered
a profound reflection on the Resurrection of Christ as a divine response
to human sadness and despair.<o:p></o:p>

Addressing thousands of faithful gathered in the Square, the
Holy Father began warmly, “Dear brothers and sisters, good morning! And
welcome, everyone!” He described the Resurrection as “an explosion of life and
joy that changed the meaning of all reality,” not through dramatic or violent
means, but “in a gentle, hidden, almost humble way.”<o:p></o:p>

Focusing his catechesis on the theme of sadness,
which he called “one of the illnesses of our time,” Pope Leo noted that many
people live with uncertainty and despair that “invade the interior space and
seem to prevail over any surge of joy.”<o:p></o:p>

Drawing from the Gospel account of the disciples on the road
to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–35), the Pope reflected on how the Risen Christ
transforms human sorrow into hope. “Sadness clouds their gaze,” he said,
referring to the two disciples who failed to recognize Jesus. “But when he
breaks the bread, their eyes are opened, and joy is rekindled.”<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo explained that the Emmaus story is a “paradigm of
human sadness” transformed by the encounter with the Risen Lord. “The act of
breaking bread reopens the eyes of their hearts, illuminating once again their
vision clouded by despair,” he said, adding that their experience reveals how
Christ walks with us even when we fail to perceive Him.<o:p></o:p>

Quoting the disciples’ exclamation, “The Lord is truly
risen,” the Pope emphasized that the Resurrection is not merely symbolic but a real
and concrete event. “Jesus was not resurrected in words, but in deeds,” he
affirmed. “The victory of life is not an empty word, but a real, concrete
fact.”<o:p></o:p>

Concluding his reflection, Pope Leo XIV invited the faithful
to let the joy of the Resurrection heal the sadness of their hearts. “May the
unexpected joy of the disciples of Emmaus be a sweet warning to us when the
journey becomes difficult,” he said. “The Risen One walks with us and for us…
He alone makes the impossible possible.”<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV: The Resurrection of Christ - A Response to Human Sorrow

New Delhi, October 22, 2025 (CBCI): Archbishop Andrews
Thazhath, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) and
Archbishop of Trichur, met Holy Father Pope Leo XIV during the General Audience
at the Vatican on October 22, 2025.<o:p></o:p>

Speaking after the audience, Archbishop Thazhath expressed
his joy and gratitude for the opportunity to meet the Holy Father once again.
“I am very happy to inform you that today I had the great privilege and honor
of meeting Pope Leo XIV during the General Audience. I had earlier met him on
May 14, 2025, shortly after his election, when he granted an audience to the
Oriental Bishops and faithful,” he said.<o:p></o:p>

During the meeting, Archbishop Thazhath officially invited
Pope Leo XIV to visit India at the earliest opportunity and presented him with
a formal letter of invitation on behalf of the Church in India. He also handed
over a detailed report on the state of the Catholic Church in India — a SWOT
analysis highlighting its activities, challenges, and positive contributions.<o:p></o:p>

“I informed the Holy Father that I would also be discussing
this matter with the Government of India,” Archbishop Thazhath noted, adding
that a formal discussion regarding the papal visit will continue during his
scheduled meeting with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State,
on October 23.<o:p></o:p>

Archbishop Thazhath shared that the Pope warmly received the
invitation and imparted his apostolic blessings upon the Church and the people
of India. “Pope Leo XIV was very happy and conveyed his blessings for the
Catholic Church in India and for all the people of our nation,” he said.<o:p></o:p>

The Archbishop also mentioned that the next General Body
Meeting of the Catholic Bishops of India will be held in February 2026, for
which he sought the Pope’s message and special blessing.<o:p></o:p>

“The Holy Father loves the Church in India and continues to
bless us,” Archbishop Thazhath affirmed.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI President Archbishop Andrews Thazhath Officially Invites Pope Leo XIV to India

New Delhi, 22 October 2025, CBCI: Archbishop Andrews
Thazhath, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) and
Archbishop of Trichur, met Holy Father Pope Leo XIV during a Papal Audience at
the Vatican on 22 October 2025.<o:p></o:p>

During the audience, Archbishop Thazhath conveyed the
affectionate greetings and prayerful wishes of the bishops, clergy, religious,
and faithful of India to the Holy Father. The Pope expressed his paternal
closeness to the Church in India.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

CBCI President Archbishop Thazhath Meets Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on October 22, 2025

New Delhi, October 18, 2025, CBCI: His Holiness Pope Leo XIV
has accepted the resignation of Rt. Rev. Vincent Samuel from the pastoral
governance of the Diocese of Neyyattinkara.<o:p></o:p>

Bishop Vincent Samuel was born on 10 August 1950 in Arayoor,
Kerala. He was ordained a priest on 19 December 1975 and served in several
parishes of the then undivided Diocese of Trivandrum. Later, he pursued higher
studies at the Pontifical Urban University in Rome, where he obtained a
Doctorate in Systematic Theology in 1987.<o:p></o:p>

Upon returning to India, he was appointed Professor of
Systematic Theology at St. Joseph’s Pontifical Major Seminary, Alwaye, and
subsequently served as its Vice-Rector in 1994.<o:p></o:p>

On 14 June 1996, when Pope John Paul II established the
Diocese of Neyyattinkara by bifurcating the Diocese of Trivandrum, Bishop
Vincent Samuel was appointed as its first Bishop. Since then, he has shepherded
the diocese faithfully for nearly three decades, guided by his episcopal motto,
“To serve and save.”<o:p></o:p>

Bishop Vincent Samuel’s leadership has been marked by his
deep commitment to pastoral care, education, and the spiritual renewal of the
faithful in the Diocese of Neyyattinkara.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Accepts the Resignation of Bishop Vincent Samuel of Neyyattinkara

New Delhi, 18 October 2025, CBCI: The Holy Father Pope Leo
XIV has appointed Rt. Rev. Dr. D. Selvarajan, as the Bishop of the Diocese of
Neyyattinkara. Earlier, on 8 February 2025, Pope Francis had named him
Coadjutor Bishop of the same diocese.<o:p></o:p>

Bishop Selvarajan Dasan was born on 27 January 1962 in
Valiyavila, within the Diocese of Neyyattinkara. He pursued his philosophical
and theological studies at St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary, Alwaye, and later
obtained a licentiate and doctorate in Canon Law from the Université Catholique
de Louvain, Belgium.<o:p></o:p>

He was ordained a priest on 23 December 1987 for the
Metropolitan Archdiocese of Trivandrum of the Latins. Over the years, Bishop
Selvarajan has served the Church in multiple pastoral and administrative roles,
including Parish Priest of St. Albert’s Church, Muthiyavila (1988–1994);
Director of Catechesis in the Archdiocese of Trivandrum (1991–1995); Parish
Priest of St. Jude’s, Chinnathurai (1994–1995); and Parish Priest of St.
Theresa’s, Manikkapuram (1995).<o:p></o:p>

He has also rendered distinguished service as Defender of
the Bond at the Trivandrum Tribunal and Director of Pastoral Care (2001–2003);
Parish Priest of St. Paul’s, Maranelloor, and Director of Schools (2001–2008);
Defender of the Bond of the Tribunal of Neyyattinkara (2001–2011); and member
of both the College of Consultors and the Diocesan Council for Economic Affairs
(since 2007).<o:p></o:p>

From 2008 to 2014, he served as Chancellor and Pastor of the
Immaculate Conception Cathedral, followed by his tenure as Pastor of Sacred
Heart and Director of the Logos Pastoral Centre (2014–2019). Since 2011, Bishop
Selvarajan has been the Judicial Vicar of Neyyattinkara and, since 2019, the
Parish Priest of St. Francis Xavier Church, Thirupuram.<o:p></o:p>

He was ordained a Bishop on March 25,
2025. He succeeds Bishop Vincent Samuel who resigned from the pastoral
governance of the dioceses of Neyyattinkara today. &nbsp;His appointment as Bishop marks a continuation
of his long and dedicated service to the Church in Kerala, particularly within
the Diocese of Neyyattinkara.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Appoints Rt. Rev. Selvarajan Dasan as New Bishop of Neyyattinkara

New Delhi, October 10, 2025: The Catholic
Mental Health Ministry (CMHM), a network under the CBCI Office for Healthcare,
honored Sr. Rose Paite, MSMHC, with the National Award during the World Mental
Health Day Conference.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

The award was presented by Archbishop
Thomas Tharyil in the presence of Bishop Lumen Monteiro, Chairman of the CBCI
Office for Healthcare; Bishop Alex Vadakumthala, Secretary General of the
Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council; Fr. Mathew Koyickal, CBCI Deputy Secretary;
Fr. Santhosh Dias, National Secretary, CBCI Office for Healthcare; Fr. Shinto
Mathew, National President, CMHM; and several mental health professionals from
various dioceses across India.

The Mrs. Janamma Thomas Muthoot Award,
instituted in association with CMHM India, commemorates Mrs. Janamma Thomas
whose life of compassion and service to the poor and sick across Karnataka,
Kerala, and other parts of India exemplified Christian love and care.

Sr. Rose Paite, who hails from Singngat in
Manipur, is a member of the Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians
(MSMHC). A dedicated social worker with over 25 years of experience, she has
been actively involved in empowering women and children and supporting
marginalized communities. She is a pioneer in preventing human trafficking,
promoting safe migration, and advocating for the rights of domestic workers.

This award recognizes her outstanding
contribution to mental health advocacy and her unwavering commitment to
upholding human dignity and holistic well-being. Her recognition serves as an
inspiration for the people of North India - especially the North East - to
integrate mental health promotion and wellness initiatives
into&nbsp;everyday&nbsp;life.<o:p></o:p>

Sr. Rose Paite from Singngat in Manipur Wins Church Recognition for Promoting Wellness at the Grassroots 

New Delhi, October 10, 2025: The National Mental Health Conference organized by the Catholic
Mental Health Ministry (CMHM) under the CBCI Office for Healthcare marked World
Mental Health Day with a special celebration at St. Thomas Hospital,
Chethipuzha. The event was inaugurated by Archbishop Thomas Tharayil, Ecclesial
Advisor of CMHM India, in the presence of Bishop Lumen Monteiro, Chairman of
the CBCI Office for Healthcare; Bishop Alex Vadakumthala, Secretary General of
the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council; and other dignitaries.<o:p></o:p>

In his presidential address, Archbishop
Thomas Tharayil spoke about the many challenges faced by today’s youth and
assured them of the Church’s constant support in their struggles. He
underscored the vital role of the Catholic Mental Health Ministry (CMHM) in
fostering wellness and promoting a culture of mental health awareness within
the Catholic Church.<o:p></o:p>

Delivering the keynote address, Bishop
Vadakumthala emphasized the importance of a strong and nurturing family life as
the foundation for holistic mental health. Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy
Secretary of the CBCI, lauded CMHM’s tireless efforts in advancing the Church’s
mission to integrate mental health care into pastoral life across the country,
in the presence of Fr. Santhosh Dias, National Secretary of the CBCI Office for
Healthcare, and Fr. Shinto Mathew, National President of CMHM.<o:p></o:p>

As part of the celebration, the conference
also recognized individuals who have made outstanding contributions to mental
health within the Church. Sr. Rose Paite, MSMHC, received the Jenamma Thomas
Mental Health Award for her compassionate service in promoting mental
wellness and rehabilitation in Northeast India. Dr. George Padanilam was
honoured with the Late Rev. Dr. Antony Mannarkulam Award for his
pioneering work in the rehabilitation and empowerment of persons with
disabilities. Ms. Rita James, from the Archdiocese of Delhi, received the Chiara
Luce Badano Youth Award for her remarkable advocacy in raising mental
health awareness and fostering inclusion within her parish and educational
community.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

World Mental Health Day Celebration Highlights the Church’s Commitment to Mental Wellbeing

New Delhi, October 11, 2025: The Catholic Church in India reaffirmed its commitment to mental
health and pastoral care through the National Mental Health Conference
organized by the Catholic Mental Health Ministry (CMHM) under the CBCI Office
for Healthcare. The two-day conference, held from October 10–11 at
Changanacherry, Kerala, was centered on the theme “Raising Awareness and
Fostering Change.”<o:p></o:p>

The event was inaugurated by His Excellency
Bishop Lumen Monteiro, Chairman of the CBCI Office for Healthcare, in the
presence of Fr. Santhosh Dias, National Secretary of the CBCI Office for
Healthcare; Fr. Shinto Mathew, National President of CMHM; Sr. Dr. Joan
Chunkapura, MMS, National Secretary of CMHM; Fr. Subin, Associate Director of
CMHM Kerala Region; and Fr. Bijo, Convenor.<o:p></o:p>

In his inaugural address, Bishop Lumen
emphasized the importance of establishing a dedicated mental health ministry in
every parish community, stressing that mental wellness is an essential part of
living a healthy life of faith. The conference brought together priests,
religious, and lay participants from dioceses across India, creating a dynamic
forum for dialogue and collaboration within the Church.<o:p></o:p>

The two-day event featured a series of
expert talks and panel discussions addressing key mental health concerns faced
by individuals and faith communities. Dr. Sr. Joan Chunkapura, MMS, spoke on Midlife
Reappraisal and Its Management, while Dr. Chikku Mathew, a leading
psychiatrist, discussed Managing Depression Among Youth. Dr. Varghese
Punnoose, Principal of Kottayam Medical College, presented on Personality
Disorders and Their Impact on Life.<o:p></o:p>

Dr. Sr. Rani Augustine, MSA, National
Director of CMHM Outreach, shared insights on Implementing Mental Health
Promotion in Ministry Settings. Dr. Jonathan Lourdusamy focused on Challenges
in Adolescent Psychiatry, and Fr. Faustine Lobo, Director of Fr. Muller
Medical College, elaborated on Pioneering Mental Health Ministry in India.<o:p></o:p>

The discussions also featured Dr. Bobby
Thomas Kokkat, who spoke on Collaborative Care in Dementia, and Mr. Sigi
Antony, who addressed Addiction in Modern Life. Dr. Patricia Viego,
Director of CMHM Parish Ministry, explained Starting CMHM Ministry in
Parishes, while Mr. Edwin Waker emphasized Grassroots Involvement in
Mental Wellbeing.<o:p></o:p>

Fr. Santhosh Dias reflected on Leadership
and Strategic Planning for Mental Health in the Catholic Church, and Adv.
Febby Mathew examined The Impact of Disasters on Mental Health. The
conference concluded with a session by Dr. Sr. Sally John, who highlighted Mental
Healthcare among Religious Sisters.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

CBCI Office for Healthcare Holds National Mental Health Conference with its network CMHM

New Delhi, 10 October 2025, CBCI: The CBCI Office for
Education and Culture released four new books on education during the
concluding session of the 56th National Convention of the All India Association
of Catholic Schools (AINACS).<o:p></o:p>

The books were officially released by Most Rev. Elias
Gonsalves, Chairperson of the CBCI Office for Education and Culture and Archbishop
of Nagpur. The ceremony was marked by the presence of Fr. Shinoj Kizhakkemuryil
TOR, President of AINACS; Rev. Dr. Maria Charles, Executive Secretary of the
CBCI Office for Education and Culture; and several other dignitaries.<o:p></o:p>

The new publications include Catholic Educators – Heralds
of Transforming Education, the proceedings of the CBCI National Symposium
on National Education edited by Rev. Dr. Maria Charles; Saint Educators –
The Story of Holiness and Education in the Church, compiled by Rev. Dr.
Maria Charles and Brandon Arnold John; Education 5.0 – Nurturing Gen-Next
for Excellence and Service, proceedings from the CBCI National Consultation
on Education edited by Rev. Dr. Maria Charles; and The Teachings of the
Catholic Church on Education – Church’s Most Significant Magisterial Documents
on Education, compiled by Rev. Dr. Maria Charles and Brandon Arnold John.<o:p></o:p>

The books, printed and distributed by ATC Bangalore, reflect
the Church’s ongoing commitment to promoting excellence, service, and
value-based education across India.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Office for Education and Culture Launches Four New Books on Education 

New Delhi, September 10, 2025 (CBCI): Pope
Leo XIV, addressing participants of the 39th Conference of the MINDS
International Association at the Vatican Apostolic Palace on September 9,
underscored the vital responsibility of journalists in safeguarding truth and
promoting ethical communication in an era marked by misinformation and digital
transformation.<o:p></o:p>

Welcoming the participants, the Holy Father
acknowledged the paradox of modern communication, observing that while
information technology has advanced rapidly, both news agencies and consumers
are facing a crisis of authenticity. “We might call it a paradox that in the
age of communication, news and communications agencies are experiencing a
crisis,” he said. “And that information consumers are also experiencing a
crisis themselves, often mistaking the false for the true, the authentic for
the artificial.”<o:p></o:p>

The Pope described information as a public
good that demands protection and called for an alliance between citizens
and journalists, grounded in ethical and civic responsibility. “What is truly
constructive,” he noted, “is an alliance between citizens and journalists,
underpinned by a commitment to ethical and civic responsibility.” He praised
the courage of reporters who risk their lives to ensure the public’s right to
know, especially in war-torn regions such as Gaza and Ukraine, reminding the
audience that many journalists have become victims of violence and suppression.<o:p></o:p>

In a renewed appeal for press freedom, Pope
Leo XIV reiterated his earlier call for the release of journalists unjustly
imprisoned for their reporting. “Being a journalist can never be considered a
crime, but a right to be protected,” he stated firmly.<o:p></o:p>

Reflecting on the challenges posed by the
digital era and artificial intelligence, the Pope urged vigilance in ensuring
that technology serves humanity rather than controls it. “Algorithms generate
content and data at a scale and speed never seen before. But who governs them?”
he asked. “We must be vigilant to ensure that technology does not replace
humanity, and that information and the algorithms that govern it today are not
in the hands of a few.”<o:p></o:p>

Citing Pope Francis’ address during the
Jubilee of Communication earlier this year, he echoed the call for “courageous
entrepreneurs and computer engineers” to ensure that communication remains pure
and authentic, free from manipulation, cognitive pollution, and unfair
competition. He also warned against the degradation of media through clickbait
practices and profit-driven distortion of truth.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV praised the dedication of
press agency journalists who work tirelessly, often under immense pressure, to
deliver accurate and timely news. He described their work as an antidote to the
spread of “junk information,” emphasizing that it requires competence, courage,
and a strong sense of ethics.<o:p></o:p>

Quoting philosopher Hannah Arendt, the Pope
warned against the dangers of a society that loses its sense of truth. “The
ideal subject of a totalitarian regime,” he recalled, “is not the convinced
Nazi or the convinced Communist, but the person for whom there is no longer any
difference between reality and fiction, between true and false.”<o:p></o:p>

He urged journalists to act as guardians of
truth, defending civilization against the “shifting sands of approximation and
post-truth.” “The communications economy cannot and must not separate its
destiny from the sharing of truth,” he said, stressing that transparency,
accountability, and objectivity are essential to restoring citizens’ trust in
information.<o:p></o:p>

Concluding his address, Pope Leo XIV
encouraged media professionals to remain steadfast in their vocation and
integrity. “Remember: never sell out your authority!” he exhorted. “May the
Spirit of God, who is truth and strength, and instills meekness and courage,
sustain you. And may my blessing accompany you.”<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

Pope Leo XIV Urges Journalists to Defend Truth and Uphold Free Information

New Delhi, 9 October 2025, CBCI: In his first Apostolic
Exhortation, In his first Apostolic Exhortation, “Dilexi te” Pope Leo XIV sets
out the foundations of Christian Revelation and of the tradition of the Church<o:p></o:p>

1.<span style="font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
The face of the poor as an epiphany of the
Kingdom of God (8-12)<o:p></o:p>

In the healing of wounds, whether physical, social or
spiritual, the Church proclaims that the Kingdom of God embraces the
vulnerable. In every act of care such as visiting the sick (Mt 25:36), the
Christian community experiences salvation as a concrete relationship with those
who bear the marks of the Cross in their flesh.<o:p></o:p>

Poverty, a huge social problem, is also a theological theme:
through the poor, God speaks to the Church (“Dilexi te,I have loved you”
[1]), faith becomes real in mercy and service that break down barriers, and
God’s people experience the beatitude of “the poor in spirit.”[2]<o:p></o:p>

2.<span style="font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
From structures of sin to the conversion of
social structures (90-98)<o:p></o:p>

Recent Church teaching understands that poverty results from
structures of sin. Selfishness and indifference solidify in economic and
cultural systems. The “economy that kills”[3]measures human value in terms of
productivity, consumption and profit. This “dominant mentality” makes it
acceptable to discard the weak and unproductive, and thus deserves the label
“social sin”.<o:p></o:p>

Beyond donations and other assistance, the Church's response
denounces the false impartiality of the market, proposes models of development,
promotes justice, aims for the conversion of structures. This fosters a form of
communal or social repentance that restores dignity to the invisible and helps
them to develop more fully.<o:p></o:p>

3.<span style="font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Poverty as active subjectivity and principle of evangelization
(99-102)<o:p></o:p>

St John Paul II urged the poor to become protagonists of
ecclesial and social transformation. Popular movements (80-81) with their
“moral energy,”[4] demonstrate that justice arises from including the excluded.
Besides suffering privation, the poor can be “bearers of hope” and “builders of
a common destiny.”[5]Let the Church assist them, be evangelized by them,
recognise the Spirit at work in them, and together proclaim the Gospel.<o:p></o:p>

4.<span style="font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Education, Eucharist and Service: promoting
integral development (68-72, 108-114)<o:p></o:p>

Promoting integral human development, according to the
Social Teaching of the Church, intertwines education, Eucharist and service.<o:p></o:p>

•Education is the first act of justice, because it frees
people from spiritual poverty and prepares them for social responsibility.<o:p></o:p>

•The Eucharist brings diverse people together, nourishes the
community and missions ittocharity and solidarity.<o:p></o:p>

•Service is social love in concrete form: care for the poor
and for our common home.<o:p></o:p>

Thus, the Church offers mercy to the world, promoting a civilization
in which every person is recognised as the image of God.<o:p></o:p>

5.<span style="font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Charity generates peace and universal fraternity
(108-114)<o:p></o:p>

InDilexi te, Pope Leo joins Pope Francis in
declaring: there will beno peace as long as the poor and the planet are
neglected and abused.<o:p></o:p>

Christian peace is reconciling and reconciled justice. The
poor, Mother Teresa said, “do not need our pity but our respectful
love.”[6]Treating them with dignity is the first act of peace. Only a society
with the discarded at its centre can be truly peaceful, and only a world of
such societies can be at peace.<o:p></o:p>

“Dilexi te”: Pope Leo XIV Outlines the Foundations of Christian Revelation and Church Tradition

New Delhi, 9 October 2025, CBCI: &nbsp;Pope Leo XIV has released his first Apostolic
Exhortation titled “Dilexi te” (“I have loved you,” from Rev 3:9),
inviting all Christians to recognize and love Christ in the poor and the
suffering.<o:p></o:p>

Signed on the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the document
takes forward Pope Francis’ desire “that all Christians come to appreciate the
close connection between Christ’s love and his summons to care for the poor.”<o:p></o:p>

In Dilexi te, Pope Leo XIV reflects on the love of
Christ incarnated in acts of compassion - caring for the sick, opposing
slavery, defending women facing exclusion and violence, promoting education for
all, accompanying migrants, encouraging charitable giving, and striving for
equality.<o:p></o:p>

The Apostolic Exhortation, spread over five chapters and 121
numbered paragraphs, draws deeply from the Gospel of the Incarnate Son of God,
“Who became poor for our sake.” It also reaffirms the Church’s social teaching
of the past 150 years as “a veritable treasury of significant teachings” on the
dignity of the poor and the call to love in action.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Releases First Apostolic Exhortation “Dilexi te” – A Call to Recognize Christ in the Poor

New Delhi, October 4, 2025, CBCI: The two-day seminar of
Major Superiors, organized by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI),
commenced this morning at the National Biblical, Catechetical and Liturgical
Centre (NBCLC), Bengaluru, with a solemn Eucharistic Celebration.<o:p></o:p>

The Holy Mass was presided over by His Grace Archbishop Anil
Couto, Secretary General of the CBCI, and concelebrated by Bishop Devaprasad
Ganava and Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of the CBCI,
along with several priests.<o:p></o:p>

In his homily, Archbishop Couto invited the participants to
engage in sincere self-reflection and to make necessary transformations in
personal and community life, especially in the context of today’s challenging
socio-political environment.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Seminar for Major Superiors Begins at NBCLC, Bengaluru

New Delhi, September 26, 2025, CBCI: The Telugu Catholic
Bishops' Council (TCBC) held its extraordinary meeting from September 23 to 25,
2025. The final day, September 25, was dedicated to the Telugu Catholic Council
(TCC).<o:p></o:p>Fr. Raju Alex welcomed the assembly, and Most Rev. T. Joseph
Raja Rao offered the introductory remarks, highlighting the importance of the
TCC and its activities. Members introduced themselves, the minutes of the
previous meeting were reviewed, and matters arising were addressed, with
requests that the TCBC consider the recommendations made in 2024.<o:p></o:p>Fr. Joji Babu, Professor at St. John’s Regional Seminary,
delivered an insightful session on Lay Leadership, accompanied by a
PowerPoint presentation. He initiated group discussions by dividing members
into six groups, each tasked with responding to three key questions. Their
reports will serve as recommendations for the TCBC.<o:p></o:p>His Eminence Cardinal Poola Anthony, President of the TCBC,
expressed gratitude to Bishop T. Joseph Raja Rao, Chairman of the TCC, for his
valuable observations, and encouraged TCC members to take active roles in their
dioceses and to support the upcoming Jubilee Mini-Conventions in both
ecclesiastical provinces of the Telugu region.<o:p></o:p>The meeting concluded with the recitation of the Angelus,
followed by the final prayer and blessing. Cardinal Poola Anthony thanked the
bishops, TCC members, and especially Fr. Lourdu Marreddy, Rector of St. John’s
Seminary, for his support in ensuring the success of this three-day
extraordinary meeting.<o:p></o:p>









By Fr. Raju Alex, Deputy Secretary, TCBC<o:p></o:p>

Telugu Catholic Bishops’ Council Holds Extraordinary Meeting Alongside Telugu Catholic Council Gathering

New Delhi, 22 September 2025, CBCI: Bishop Edwin Colaço,
Bishop Emeritus of Aurangabad, passed away on 22 September 2025 at the age of
87.<o:p></o:p>

Born on 2 October 1937 in Uttan, in the Archdiocese of
Bombay, Bishop Colaço was ordained a priest on 2 December 1964. He was
appointed Bishop of Amravati on 1 April 1995 and ordained bishop on 30 July the
same year. On 20 October 2006, he was transferred to the Diocese of Aurangabad
as its fourth bishop, where he faithfully shepherded the diocese until his
retirement in 2015.<o:p></o:p>

Bishop Emeritus Edwin Colaço of Aurangabad Called to Eternal Rest

New Delhi, 20 September 2025 (CBCI): The Holy Father, Pope
Leo XIV, through the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the
Sacraments, has graciously confirmed Saint Lazarus Devasahayam as the Patron of
the Laity in India. This joyful news will be solemnly proclaimed on 15 October
2025 during a Eucharistic Celebration at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Varanasi.<o:p></o:p>

Saint Devasahayam, the first canonized lay Catholic from
India, lived between 1712 and 1752. Having embraced the Christian faith, he
endured severe persecution and ultimately gave his life as a martyr. His
witness to faith remains a shining model for the faithful in our times.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Declares Saint Lazarus Devasahayam Patron of the Laity in India

New Delhi, September 20, 2025, CBCI: Pope Leo XIV has
accepted the resignation of Most Rev. Thomas D’Souza, Archbishop of Calcutta.<o:p></o:p>

Archbishop D’Souza was born on August 26, 1950. He was
appointed Bishop of Bagdogra, West Bengal, on June 14, 1997, and consecrated on
January 25, 1998. On March 12, 2011, he was nominated Coadjutor of the
Archdiocese of Calcutta, and subsequently appointed Archbishop on February 23,
2012.<o:p></o:p>

For over 13 years, he shepherded the Archdiocese of
Calcutta, during which the local Church flourished under his pastoral guidance
and leadership.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Accepts Resignation of Archbishop Thomas D’Souza of Calcutta

New Delhi, September
20, 2025, CBCI: Pope Leo XIV has appointed Most. Rev. Elias Frank as the new
Archbishop of Calcutta. The announcement was made today in Vatican.<o:p></o:p>

Rt. Rev. Elias
Frank was born on 15 August 1962 in Bantwal, Karnataka, and belongs to the
Diocese of Mangalore. He completed his early education in Modankap and Shillong
before entering priestly formation at St. John Mary Vianney Minor Seminary in
Barasat and later studied philosophy at Morning Star Regional Seminary,
Barrackpore. He pursued his theological studies at the Pontifical Urbaniana
University in Rome, where he also earned a licentiate and later a doctorate in
Canon Law. <o:p></o:p>

Ordained as a
priest on 23 April 1993 for the Archdiocese of Calcutta, he served in several
parishes including Sacred Heart Church in Burdwan and St. Therese of Lisieux in
Durgapur. He also contributed as a judge at the Inter-Diocesan Tribunal in
Kolkata. Academically accomplished, Bishop Elias Frank has served as a
professor of Canon Law in Rome since 2007 and is a visiting professor at the
Alfonsian Academy. He has published books and scholarly articles, and held
roles as an external judge and consultor for Vatican dicasteries. <o:p></o:p>

<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-theme-font:
minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;mso-font-kerning:0pt;mso-ligatures:none;
mso-ansi-language:EN-IN;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">Appointed
Bishop of Asansol by Pope Francis on 3 July 2023, he was consecrated on 24
August 2023. Pope Leo XIV has appointed Rt. Rev. Elias Frank, Bishop of Asansol
as the Coadjutor Bishop of the Archdiocese of Calcutta on June 28, 2025.&nbsp;

Pope Leo XIV has appointed Most. Rev. Elias Frank, as the Archbishop of Calcutta

New Delhi, September 20, 2025 CBCI: The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) held a solemn Memorial Mass on Saturday morning at
the Chapel of the CBCI Headquarters, New Delhi, for the repose of the late
Archbishop Jacob Thoomkuzhy, Archbishop Emeritus of Trichur and former Vice President
of the CBCI.<o:p></o:p>

The Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by His Grace
Archbishop Anil Couto, Secretary General of the CBCI. In his homily, Archbishop
Anil highlighted Archbishop Thoomkuzhy’s outstanding leadership, recalling in
particular the CBCI General Body Meeting held in 2004 at Mary Matha Major
Seminary, Trichur, which was marked by his vision and guidance.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of the
CBCI, in his introductory address, reflected on Archbishop Thoomkuzhy’s life
and his remarkable contributions to the CBCI during his six-year tenure as Vice
President.<o:p></o:p>

Secretaries of various CBCI offices concelebrated the Mass,
joining in prayer and thanksgiving for the life and ministry of Archbishop
Thoomkuzhy.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Holds Memorial Mass for Archbishop Jacob Thoomkuzhy at Headquarters Chapel

New Delhi, September 19, 2025, CBCI: The Holy Father Pope Leo XIV
has appointed Rev. John Kuttiyil, of the clergy of the Major Archeparchy of
Trivandrum of the Syro-Malankara Church, as Auxiliary Bishop of the
same&nbsp;Archeparchy.<o:p></o:p>

Holy Father Pope Leo XIV Appoints Rev. John Kuttiyil as Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archeparchy of Trivandrum

New Delhi, September 19, 2025, CBCI: The Holy Father Pope
Leo XIV has appointed Rev. Kuriakose Thomas Thadathil of the clergy of the
Archeparchy of Thiruvalla as Apstolic Visitator for Europe for the Syro-Malanka
faithful residing in Europe, elevating him to&nbsp;the&nbsp;episcopate<o:p></o:p>

Holy Father Pope Leo XIV Appoints Rev. Kuriakose Thomas Thadathil as Apostolic Visitator for Europe

New Delhi, September 18, 2025: Archbishop Anil Couto,
Archbishop of Delhi and Secretary General of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference
of India (CBCI), has expressed deep sorrow at the passing away of His Grace Mar
Jacob Thoomkuzhy, Archbishop Emeritus of the Archeparchy of Trichur.<o:p></o:p>

In a condolence message addressed to Mar Andrews Thazhath,
Archbishop of Trichur and President of the CBCI, Archbishop Couto paid tribute
to Archbishop Thoomkuzhy as “a true shepherd who dedicated 52 years of his
episcopal ministry to the Church, guiding the faithful with wisdom, humility,
and vision.”<o:p></o:p>

He recalled the late Archbishop’s outstanding contribution
as Vice President of the CBCI for six years, especially highlighting the
historic General Body Meeting of the Conference held at Mary Matha Major
Seminary, Trichur - a seminary founded by Archbishop Thoomkuzhy himself.<o:p></o:p>

Remembering him as “a visionary leader,” Archbishop Couto
noted that Archbishop Thoomkuzhy guided three dioceses with exemplary
dedication - as the first Bishop of the Eparchy of Mananthavady, the second
Bishop of the Eparchy of Thamarassery, and later as the second Archbishop of
the Archeparchy of Trichur. “With openness of heart and mind, he welcomed
reforms in the Church and embraced the challenges of the modern world, helping
the Church transition with grace from the last century into the present one,”
he said.<o:p></o:p>

Archbishop Couto further emphasized that Archbishop
Thoomkuzhy will be remembered “with profound gratitude as a pastor who united
deep faith with forward-looking leadership.” He prayed for the repose of the
late Archbishop’s soul and offered condolences on behalf of the CBCI and all
the bishops of India to Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, the clergy, religious, and
faithful of the Archdiocese of Trichur.<o:p></o:p>

“May the Lord grant him eternal rest, and may his life
continue to inspire all of us in our mission of service,” Archbishop Couto
concluded.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Secretary General Archbishop Anil Couto Offers Condolences on the Passing of Archbishop Jacob Thoomkuzhy

New Delhi, September 11, 2025: The
Third<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-theme-font:
minor-latin;mso-ansi-language:EN-IN;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"> National
Ecumenical Bishops’ Fellowship Meeting was
held on Sept.
11, 2025, from 02.00 to 03.30 p.m. at the CBCI Centre, New Delhi. About 25
participants took part in it including the Archbishops / Bishops, Church Heads,
and the delegates of various Christian Denominations.<span style="font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-ansi-language:
EN-IN;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"> The CBCI Office for
Dialogue and the Desk for Ecumenism of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of
India (CBCI) facilitated the Meeting. Its main
purpose was to foster the fellowship among the Church leaders and strengthen
the ecumenical movement in India. It also included an ecumenical dialogue <span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-ansi-language:
EN-IN;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">on the
Draft Guidelines of the National Federation of Churches in India (NFCI).<o:p></o:p>

<span style="font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-theme-font:
minor-latin;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style:
italic">&nbsp;

The Meeting began with the Ecumenical
Prayer Service for Christian Unity adapted from the Resources for the Prayer for Christian Unity for the year 2025, which was jointly
prepared and published by the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity of Roman Catholic Church
(RCC) and the Commission on Faith and Order of the World Council of Churches
(WCC). T<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-theme-font:
minor-latin;color:windowtext;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">o mark
the 1,700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council held at Nicaea in 325
AD, the theme: “Do you
believe this?” (John 11:26) was
chosen for the year 2025. The Prayer Service was led by Bishop
Gerald Mathias of Lucknow, a member of CBCI Office for Dialogue and the Desk for Ecumenism.<o:p></o:p>

The self-introduction of the participants was followed by the presentation
of the Minutes of the Second National Ecumenical Bishops’ Fellowship and
Consultation Meeting held on September 13,
2024 by Fr Dr Anthoniraj Thumma, the Coordinator of the National Ecumenical
Bishops’ Fellowship and Secretary, CBCI Office for Dialogue and the Desk for Ecumenism.
Then, Key-Note Address was delivered by Bishop Joshua Mar Ignathios, Chairman
of CBCI Office for Dialogue and Desk for Ecumenism. He presented the background
and Draft Guidelines of the National Federation of Churches in India (NFCI). After
that, it was taken up for deliberation by the delegates during the open house ecumenical
dialogue. Many of them appreciated the Draft Guidelines as being comprehensive
and appropriate. Some suggestions were offered to fine tune the Guidelines and
for its refinement.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

In
his concluding remarks, CBCI President Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, while appreciating
the preparation of Draft Guidelines, emphasised the urgency of uniting and
working together. At the wake of increasing attacks on the Christians by the
communal forces, he pointed out that it is the need of the hour to project a
united Christian face and have single voice. The Fellowship Meeting came to a
close with the prayer and benediction offered by Rev. Fr Daniel Thomas, Vicar
General of Delhi Diocese of the Mar Thomas Syrian Church. After the Meeting,
the delegates took part in the spectacular programme of Prabhu Jesu Mahotsav, the National Ecumenical Jubilee 2025 Celebrations,
and the commemoration of the 1700th Anniversary of the First
Ecumenical Council of Nicaea and Nicaean Creed. These ecumenical events highlighted
the common faith that unites the Churches as expressed by the Nicene Creed.
They also presented a witness to the Christian unity and growing communion
among the Churches in the spirit of joy and hope of the Jubilee 2025.<o:p></o:p>

By Rev.Dr
Anthoniraj Thumma<o:p></o:p>

Ecumenical Dialogue Held on Draft Guidelines of National Federation of Churches in India (NFCI)

New Delhi, September 11, 2025: The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) solemnly celebrated the National Ecumenical Jubilee
2025 and the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea and the
proclamation of the Nicene Creed with a grand Eucharistic Celebration at the
Sacred Heart Cathedral, New Delhi on September 11th.<o:p></o:p>

The solemn Eucharist was presided over by Most Rev. Leopoldo
Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, and concelebrated by Cardinals,
Major Archbishops, Archbishops, Bishops, and numerous priests from across the
country. In his homily, Archbishop Girelli emphasized the significance of the
Jubilee and the enduring importance of the Nicene Creed for Christian unity and
witness.<o:p></o:p>

Most Rev. Anil Couto, Secretary General of CBCI and
Archbishop of Delhi, welcomed the congregation, while Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal,
Deputy Secretary General of CBCI, expressed gratitude through the vote of
thanks.<o:p></o:p>

The Eucharistic Celebration was a profound expression of
thanksgiving, faith, and communion, drawing thousands of faithful from across
India, including members of the Archdiocese of Delhi, the Archdiocese of
Faridabad, and the Diocese of Gurgaon.<o:p></o:p>

Solemn Eucharistic Celebration Marks CBCI’s National Ecumenical Jubilee 2025 and 1700th Anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and the proclamation of the Nicene Creed

New Delhi, September 11, 2025: <a name="_Hlk209094182">The
Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) solemnly celebrated the National Ecumenical
Jubilee 2025 and the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea and the
proclamation of the Nicene Creed, marking a historic moment of faith and unity
for the Church in India and across the world.<o:p></o:p></a>



The commemoration began with an ecumenical gathering at St.
Columba’s School, New Delhi, at 4:30 p.m., bringing together Church leaders,
representatives of various Christian traditions, ambassadors of various
countries, religious men and women, lay leaders, and faithful from across the
country. The event highlighted the enduring significance of the Nicene Creed in
strengthening Christian unity and bearing common witness in today’s world.<o:p></o:p>

Most Rev. Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and
Nepal, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour, while Hon. R. Venkataramani,
Attorney General of India, was the Chief Guest. Most Rev. Andrews Thazhath,
President of CBCI and Archbishop of Thrissur, delivered the Presidential
Address, and Most Rev. Anil Couto, Secretary General of CBCI and Archbishop of
Delhi, welcomed the gathering.<o:p></o:p>

Most Rev. George Antony Samy, First Vice President of CBCI and
Metropolitan Archbishop of Madras–Mylapore, along with Rt. Rev. Joseph Mar
Thomas, Second Vice President of CBCI and Bishop of Bathery, felicitated the
distinguished guests.<o:p></o:p>

The academic session featured Rev. Dr. Stanley Jayakumar
SDB, Professor of Systematic Theology at Don Bosco Theological Centre, Chennai,
who offered profound reflections on “1700 Years of the Nicene Creed.” Following
his address, the Nicene Creed was chanted in Latin. Rev. Dr. Pius
Melakandathil, former professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University and Vicar
General of Kothamangalam Diocese, Kerala, spoke on “The Christian Contribution
to Nation Building in India.”<o:p></o:p>

The cultural program included a fusion performance by
students of Vidyajyoti College of Theology, New Delhi, highlighting the
Christian role in nation building. A prayer dance and the Latin classical
acapella De Profundis were presented by the students of Jesus and Mary
College, New Delhi.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of CBCI,
proposed the vote of thanks. The event concluded with the singing of the
National Anthem.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Celebrates National Ecumenical Jubilee 2025 and 1700th Anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and the proclamation of the Nicene Creed

New Delhi, September 17, 2025, CBCI: Archbishop Mar Jacob
Thoomkuzhy, Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Thrissur, was called to
eternal life at 2:50 p.m. on Wednesday, September 17, 2025. He was 94. A former
Vice President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), he is remembered
as a shepherd of faith, wisdom, and humility who dedicated his life to the
service of the Church and the people of God.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI deeply mourns his passing and prays for the repose
of his soul.<o:p></o:p>

Born on 13 December 1930 at Vilakumadam in the Eparchy of
Palai, Archbishop Thoomkuzhy’s family now belongs to Sacred Heart Parish,
Thiruvambady, in the Eparchy of Thamarassery. He pursued his priestly studies
at St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary, Aluva, and at Urban College, Rome, where
he was ordained a priest on 22 December 1956. He later earned a Doctorate in
Canon and Civil Law from the Lateran University, Rome.<o:p></o:p>

Returning to India, he served as secretary to Mar Sebastian
Vallopilly, Bishop of Thalassery, and as chancellor of the eparchy. He was
later appointed Rector of the Eparchial Minor Seminary in Thalassery. After
further studies at Fordham University, New York, where he obtained a Master’s
degree in English Literature, he returned to India and resumed his role as
Rector of the Minor Seminary until his episcopal appointment.<o:p></o:p>

On 1 May 1973, he was consecrated as the first Bishop of the
newly erected Eparchy of Manathavady, serving there for 22 years. On 7 June
1995, he was transferred as Bishop of Thamarassery, where he took charge on 28
July 1995. The following year, on 18 December 1996, he was appointed Archbishop
of Thrissur and was installed on 15 February 1997.<o:p></o:p>

Archbishop Thoomkuzhy’s resignation upon reaching the
canonical age of retirement became effective on 18 March 2007, when Mar Andrews
Thazhath was enthroned as Metropolitan Archbishop of Thrissur.<o:p></o:p>

May his soul rest in eternal peace.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Archbishop Mar Jacob Thoomkuzhy Called to Eternal Rest

New Delhi, 10 September 2025, CBCI: &nbsp;The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India
(CBCI) will tomorrow, 11 September, solemnly celebrate the Ecumenical Jubilee
2025 and the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea and the
proclamation of the Nicene Creed, marking a historic moment of faith and unity
for the Church in India and across the world.<o:p></o:p>

The commemoration will open with an ecumenical gathering at St.
Columba’s School, New Delhi, at 4:00 p.m., bringing together Church leaders,
representatives of various Christian traditions, religious men and women, lay
leaders, and faithful from across the country. The event will highlight the
enduring significance of the Nicene Creed in strengthening Christian unity and
bearing common witness in today’s world.<o:p></o:p>

In connection with the Jubilee, the CBCI Standing Committee
will meet in New Delhi on September 11–12, 2025, under the leadership of Archbishop
Andrews Thazhath, President of the CBCI. Around 50 participants, including
Cardinals, Archbishops, and Bishops, are expected to take part in the sessions,
reflecting on the life and mission of the Church in India and addressing
contemporary challenges facing the Christian community and society at large.<o:p></o:p>

Later in the evening of September 11, a solemn Eucharistic
Celebration will be held at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, New Delhi, at 6:30 p.m.,
presided over by Most Rev. Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and
Nepal, and concelebrated by Cardinals, Major Archbishops, Archbishops, Bishops,
and numerous priests. The Mass will be a profound expression of thanksgiving,
faith, and communion, with the participation of thousands of faithful from
across India, including members of the Archdiocese of Delhi, the Archdiocese of
Faridabad, and the Diocese of Gurgaon.<o:p></o:p>

These twin events will stand as a visible witness to the
unity of the Catholic Church in its rich diversity of rites, while reaffirming
the Christian community’s mission to be instruments of peace, reconciliation,
and nation-building.<o:p></o:p>

Church leaders will underscore the continuing relevance of
the Nicene Creed, which unites Christians across centuries and cultures in the
one faith of the Church.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI has expressed deep gratitude to all those
contributing to the success of these historic celebrations, especially clergy,
religious, lay leaders, benefactors, and volunteers whose dedicated service
will make the events memorable.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI to Celebrate National Ecumenical Jubilee 2025 and the 1700th Anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and the Nicene Creed

New Delhi, September 5, 2025, CBCI: The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) has expressed deep sorrow and grave concern over the
recent cloudbursts and landslides in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh during
the 2025 monsoon season. The disasters have claimed several lives, left many
missing, and caused extensive damage to homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods.<o:p></o:p>

Highlighting the increasing frequency and intensity of such
calamities, the CBCI noted that climate change and unsustainable development in
the fragile Himalayan region remain urgent challenges.<o:p></o:p>

Offering condolences, the CBCI conveyed solidarity with
bereaved families and those who lost homes and livelihoods, praying for the
recovery of the injured and strength for survivors.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI has called upon all Christians in India to unite in
prayer and extend compassionate support to the victims. Caritas India, the
humanitarian arm of the Catholic Church, has already launched relief and
rehabilitation efforts in the affected areas. The CBCI urged dioceses,
institutions, and individuals to channel their contributions through Caritas
India.<o:p></o:p>

Reaffirming its commitment, the CBCI pledged continued aid
and advocacy for sustainable measures to reduce the impact of such disasters in
the future.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Mourns Victims of Cloudbursts and Landslides in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh; Urges Prayer and Support

New Delhi, 4 September 2025, CBCI, The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) has expressed deep anguish and solidarity with the
people of Punjab and Haryana who are reeling under the worst floods in decades.
Extending prayers and support, CBCI urged the faithful and people of goodwill
to respond with compassion and concrete assistance.<o:p></o:p>

According to reports, the relentless rains and overflowing
rivers have devastated all 23 districts of Punjab, affecting more than 3.5 lakh
people. The agricultural sector, the backbone of the region, has suffered
immense damage with over 3.7 lakh acres of crops submerged. Thousands have been
rendered homeless, facing a long road to recovery.<o:p></o:p>

In a message of empathy and hope, CBCI called upon Catholics
across India to join in fervent prayer for the victims and their families.
Special prayers were also offered for the safety and dedication of rescue
workers engaged in relief operations.<o:p></o:p>

Appealing for urgent action, the CBCI encouraged Christians
and people of goodwill to extend help through food, clean water, medicines, and
shelter. It further requested that contributions be routed through Caritas
India, the humanitarian arm of the Catholic Church, which has already mobilized
its network for relief and rehabilitation.<o:p></o:p>

“The Catholic Church stands ready to accompany the people of
Punjab in this difficult hour and through the long journey of recovery and
rebuilding,” the statement affirmed.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI concluded its appeal by urging all to keep Punjab and
Haryana in their prayers.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Expresses Solidarity with Flood-Hit Punjab and Haryana; Appeals for Prayer and Aid

New Delhi, 28 August 2025, CBCI: The Dicastery for
the Eastern Churches, through a communiqué from the Apostolic Nunciature, has
confirmed the erection of four new ecclesiastical provinces in the Syro-Malabar
Church. <o:p></o:p>

The Province of Faridabad will have Bijnor and Gorakhpur as
its suffragan eparchies. The Province of Kalyan will include Chanda and Rajkot
as suffragan eparchies. The Province of Shamshabad will have Adilabad as its
suffragan eparchy, while the Province of Ujjain will comprise Jagdalpur, Sagar,
and Satna as suffragan eparchies.<o:p></o:p>

This development marks a significant milestone in the growth
of the Syro-Malabar Church, enabling more effective pastoral care and ecclesial
coordination across India.<o:p></o:p>

Syro-Malabar Church Erects Four New Provinces: Faridabad, Ujjain, Shamshabad, Kalyan  in India

New Delhi, 28 August 2025, CBCI: His Beatitude Mar Raphael
Thattil, Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, with the assent of His
Holiness Pope Leo XIV, has appointed Rev. Fr. Joseph Thachaparambath CMI as the
new Bishop of the Eparchy of Adilabad. He has been serving as the Provincial
Superior of the CMI Mar Thoma Province, Chanda.<o:p></o:p>

Born on 24 February 1969 at Nalumukku, Nazareth Valley in
Idukki district, Fr. Thachaparambath joined the minor seminary of the
then-undivided Mar Thoma Province of Chanda in 1985 and made his first
profession in 1989. He completed his philosophical and theological studies at
Darsana Institute of Philosophy and Dharmaram College, Bangalore, and was
ordained a priest on 4 January 1997 by Bishop Mar Vijay Anand Nedumpuram CMI.<o:p></o:p>

Over the years, he has served in multiple roles: parish
priest in Chanda (1998–2002), Finance Officer of the CMI Mar Thoma Province
(2008–2011), and Finance Officer of the Eparchy of Adilabad (2005–2008 and
2017–2023). He has also contributed significantly to the educational apostolate
of the Province.<o:p></o:p>

Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Sunrise University, Rajasthan,
Fr. Thachaparambath holds B.Ed. and M.Ed. degrees. He is proficient in
Malayalam, Telugu, and English.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Fr. Joseph Thachaparambath CMI Appointed New Bishop of Adilabad

New Delhi, 28 August 2025, CBCI: His Beatitude Mar
Raphael Thattil, Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, with the assent
of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, has appointed Rev. Fr. James Patteril CMF as the
new Bishop of the Eparchy of Belthangady. He has been serving as the Provincial
Procurator of the Würzburg CMF Province in Germany.<o:p></o:p>

Born on 27 July 1962 in Mangalore to Mr. Abraham and Mrs.
Rosamma Patteril, Fr. Patteril hails from St. Mary’s Church, Battiyal, in the
Eparchy of Belthangady. He has four brothers and two sisters. After completing
his schooling, he joined Claret Bhavan, Kuravilangad, for priestly formation.
He pursued philosophy and theology at St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute,
Bangalore, making his First Profession on 12 June 1982 and Final Profession on
12 June 1988. He was ordained a priest on 26 April 1990.<o:p></o:p>

Fr. Patteril holds a Bachelor’s degree from Christ
University, Bangalore, and has undertaken research studies in Pastoral Theology
at the Pastoral Theological Institute, Freiburg, Germany. He has served as
assistant parish priest in Udane and Shirady parishes in Belthangady and later
ministered to the Syro-Malabar community in Würzburg, Germany.<o:p></o:p>

Fluent in Malayalam, Kannada, Tulu, English, and German, Fr.
Patteril brings with him rich pastoral, academic, and administrative experience
to his new mission as shepherd of the Belthangady Eparchy.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Fr. James Patteril CMF Appointed New Bishop of Belthangady

New Delhi, 28 August 2025, CBCI: His Beatitude Mar
Raphael Thattil, Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, with the assent
of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, has appointed Mar Sebastian Vaniyapurackal as the
new Metropolitan Archbishop of the Eparchy of Kalyan. He has been serving as the
Curia Bishop of the Syro-Malabar Church.<o:p></o:p>

Born on 29 March 1967 at Nirmalagiri in the Eparchy of
Kanjirapally, Archbishop-designate Vaniyapurackal joined the minor seminary of
Kanjirapally in 1982. He completed his philosophical and theological studies at
St. Thomas Apostolic Seminary, Vadavathoor, and was ordained a priest on 30
December 1992. His early pastoral ministry included service as Assistant Parish
Priest at St. George’s Forane Church, Kattappana, and later as Director of
Yuvadeepti, Kanjirapally, in 1995.<o:p></o:p>

In 2000, he pursued higher studies in Rome, earning a
Doctorate in Canon Law from the Holy Cross University. On his return, he served
as Judicial Vicar of the Eparchy of Kanjirapally, Parish Priest in various
parishes, and Defender of the Bond at the Syro-Malabar Major Archiepiscopal
Tribunal. He also taught at several seminaries and theological institutes.<o:p></o:p>

In 2014, he was appointed Vice Chancellor of the Major
Archiepiscopal Curia of the Syro-Malabar Church. In 2017, he was elected the
second Curia Bishop of the Church and consecrated on 12 November the same year
with the titular See of Troina. Presently, he is a judge of the Synodal
Tribunal, Chairman of the Search Committee for the selection of teaching staff
at Synodal Major Seminaries, President of the Syro-Malabar Dalit Vikas Society,
and Vice Chairman of the KCBC SC/ST/BC Commission.<o:p></o:p>

Archbishop-designate Vaniyapurackal is fluent in Malayalam,
English, Italian, and German, and brings with him a rich background in pastoral
ministry, canon law, and Church governance.<o:p></o:p>

Mar Sebastian Vaniyapurackal Appointed New Metropolitan Archbishop of Kalyan

New Delhi, August 25, 2025, CBCI: &nbsp;The Workers India Federation (WIF), the
National Workers’ Organisation of the Catholic Church in India, has strongly
urged the Central Government to introduce a special Labour Code – a fifth code
– exclusively for India’s unorganised workers, that represents nearly 94% of
the country’s workforce. This demand was the central highlight of the WIF
National Assembly, held at the Pastoral Centre, Bhopal, from August 22–24, 2025.
It is seen that while subsuming 29 labour acts into four labour codes, the
rights for legal protection and social security of the informal workers was
almost ignored. In order to distribute the fruits of development in the nation
equitably to all sections of the people in the Nation, enactment of a special
labour code for the unorganised workers is unavoidable. The Annual General Body
Meeting of WIF petitioned the Union Government to enact fifth labour code for
unorganised workers as early as possible, before notifying the existing four
labour codes. <o:p></o:p>

The assembly was inaugurated by Most
Rev. Dr. Alex Vadakumthala, Chairman of the CBCI Office for Labour, the Bishop
of Kannur who underlined that only a distinct law can guarantee social security
and welfare for the unorganised workers. The keynote address was delivered by
Most Rev. A.A.S. Durairaj, Archbishop of Bhopal and Regional Chairman of the MP
Bishops’ Council.<o:p></o:p>

The sessions emphasized that job
security, stable employment and strong social and economic safeguards should be
assured for unorganised workers, who are regularly excluded from mainstream
legal and welfare protections. As a major outcome, WIF announced the immediate
launch of a dedicated forum – “WIF forum for Women Unorganised Workers”, to
empower women labourers by providing them with a platform to voice concerns,
access support, and drive positive change.<o:p></o:p>

More than 100 delegates from across
the fourteen regions all over India participated in the Assembly. The
deliberations were presided over by WIF National President Antony Selvanathan,
while Rev. Fr. George Nirappukalayil, WIF Director and National Secretary, CBCI
Office for Labour, presented the annual activity report.<o:p></o:p>

Thematic sessions on workers’ rights,
social protection, and organisational strategies were addressed by Mr. Joy
Gothuruth, Mr. Joseph Jude, and Mr. Sebastian Palamparambil. Other speakers
included Fr. Shinto Abraham (Director, MP Region), Sameer Lakra (National General
Secretary), Dr. Hemant Kumar (National Treasurer), Sr. Adv. &nbsp;Jasmine Jose (National Coordinator), Priti
Rose Kullu (National Secretary), Feliza Goes (National EXCO Member), Sr. Christy
(National Domestic Workers Movement), Paschal Raphael (President, MP) Joseph Varghese
(Secretary MP), and Ajit Digal.<o:p></o:p>

The programmes and logistics were
successfully coordinated by the regional leadership of WIF–Madhya Pradesh,
ensuring wide participation and fruitful discussions.<o:p></o:p>

<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-theme-font:
minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;;
mso-font-kerning:0pt;mso-ligatures:none;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:
EN-US;mso-bidi-language:ML">By Fr. George Thomas&nbsp;

Enactment of Fifth Labour code, exclusively for unorganised workers, is the need of time- Workers India Federation 

New Delhi, August 21, 2025, CBCI: Archbishop Andrews
Thazhath, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), has
issued a heartfelt appeal to all members of the Church in India - bishops,
clergy, religious, laity - and to all people of goodwill, to dedicate Friday,
August 22, 2025, the Feast of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, to
prayer and fasting for world peace.<o:p></o:p>

Responding to the solemn invitation of His Holiness Pope Leo
XIV, who has called upon the Universal Church to observe this feast day with
prayer, fasting, and penance, Archbishop Thazhath urged the Church in India to
join wholeheartedly in this worldwide spiritual effort. “Our world is currently
grappling with the devastating effects of war, violence, and hatred. The cries
of the poor and the innocent rise unceasingly,” he said, appealing to the
faithful to implore God for peace and for the enlightenment of world leaders.<o:p></o:p>

He requested that every parish and religious community
arrange at least one hour of Eucharistic Adoration with the specific intention
of praying for reconciliation among nations. He further encouraged families to
come together in prayer, especially by reciting the Holy Rosary, placing their
hope in the powerful intercession of Mary, Queen of Peace.<o:p></o:p>

Archbishop Thazhath stressed that this day should be
observed as a solemn occasion of prayer and fasting throughout India. “Let us
unite our prayers and sacrifices, making our collective plea for peace a
powerful testament of our faith,” he said. “Confident in the maternal
intercession of Mary, our Queen of Peace, let us trust that God will bring an
end to conflict and lead humanity to justice and harmony.”<o:p></o:p>

The appeal concluded with a fervent invocation: “Queen of
Peace, intercede for us and for the world!”<o:p></o:p>

CBCI President Calls for Prayer and Fasting for Peace on the Feast of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary

New Delhi, 20 August 2025, CBCI: Pope Leo XIV invites the
faithful to unite in prayer and fasting on 22 August for peace, and calls for a
"disarmed and disarming peace" in all places torn by armed conflict.<o:p></o:p>

Addressing the faithful gathered in the Paul VI Hall for his
weekly General Audience, Pope Leo XIV turned his thoughts once more to the
world’s many conflict zones.<o:p></o:p>

In recalling the upcoming liturgical commemoration of the
Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is celebrated on Friday, 22 August,
the Pope invited the faithful to celebrate that day by praying and fasting for
peace.<o:p></o:p>

“Mary is the Mother of the faithful here on earth and is
remembered as the Queen of Peace,” the Pope said.<o:p></o:p>

As our world continues to be wounded by wars - in the Holy
Land, in Ukraine, and in other parts of the world -&nbsp; the Pope invited all
the faithful to take part in "a day of prayer and fasting" for all
those who suffer because of war, "imploring the Lord to grant us peace and
justice, and to wipe away the tears of those who suffer because of ongoing
armed conflicts."<o:p></o:p>

"May Mary, Queen of Peace, intercede so that peoples
may find the path of peace," he added.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo also greeted Polish-speaking faithful making a
pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Częstochowa at Jasna Góra, who were
attending the audience.<o:p></o:p>

“I ask you", he said, "to include in your
intentions the supplication for the gift of peace – a peace that is disarmed
and disarming – for the whole world, especially for Ukraine and the Middle
East."<o:p></o:p>

News Courtesy: Vatican News&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo Calls for a Day of Prayer and Fasting for Peace on 22 August

New Delhi, 19 August 2025, CBCI: Pope Leo made a private
pilgrimage on Tuesday to the historic Shrine of Our Lady of Grace, located in
the village of Guadagnolo, Capranica Prenestina, within the Diocese of
Palestrina.<o:p></o:p>

The Holy Father spent time in prayer at the Marian sanctuary
before spending time in conversation with the Polish Resurrectionist religious,
who are entrusted with the care of the shrine.<o:p></o:p>

Following his visit, Pope Leo returned to the papal summer
residence at Castel Gandolfo.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Visits Shrine of Our Lady of Grace at Mentorella

New Delhi, 19 August 2025, CBCI: NISCORT Media College
inaugurated its academic session 2025-2026 with an Orientation Day that blended
tradition, academic purpose, and sense of togetherness, formally welcoming the
new batch of students while celebrating the achievements of the previous year.<o:p></o:p>

Established and managed by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference
of India (CBCI), NISCORT Media College functions under the chairmanship of Most
Rev. Henry D’Souza, Bishop of Bellary.<o:p></o:p>

The event began with a prayer song by students, followed by
the lighting of the lamp. The Chief Guest, Most Rev. Bhaskar Jesuraj, Bishop of
Meerut and Governing Body Member of NISCORT, addressed the students with an
inspiring message. He urged them to strive for academic and professional
excellence in media and communication while upholding ethical and moral values.
Stressing the role of media in promoting peace, he highlighted that technology,
especially artificial intelligence, should enhance humanism and foster healthy
human relationships. He reminded the students that credibility, compassion, and
integrity remain the cornerstones of meaningful storytelling and responsible
journalism.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Fr. Robinson Rodrigues, Director of NISCORT and PRO,
CBCI, emphasized the institution’s mission to produce media professionals
committed to nation-building. He cautioned against sensationalism in
journalism, noting that media should not create “conflicts” merely to boost
TRPs.<o:p></o:p>

Principal Dr. Ritu Dubey Tiwari encouraged students to take
full advantage of NISCORT’s academic environment for their future careers,
while Assistant Professor Dr. Sr. Michelle Mathias led the Certificate
Distribution Ceremony recognizing outstanding student achievements in academics
and co-curricular activities for 2024-2025.<o:p></o:p>

The ceremony also featured a welcome address by Ms. Amala
Chacko, Assistant Professor, and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by
Ms. Kamakshi Thakur, Assistant Professor.<o:p></o:p>

The day ended on an upbeat note, with new students urged to
actively engage in NISCORT’s platforms for learning, collaboration, and
community engagement in the year ahead.<o:p></o:p>

Academic Session 2025-26 Inaugurated at NISCORT: Bishop Bhaskar Jesuraj Urges Students to Harness Media for Peace and Humanism 

New Delhi, 18 August 2025, CBCI: The second session of the
33rd Synod of Bishops of the Syro-Malabar Major Archiepiscopal Church commenced
on Monday at Mount St. Thomas, the Church’s headquarters. The session opened
with meditations led by Mar Alex Tharamangalam, Auxiliary Bishop of
Mananthavady, followed by the concelebration of the Holy Qurbana, presided over
by the Major Archbishop. At 2:30 p.m., Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil,
Father and Head of the Syro-Malabar Church, officially inaugurated the
gathering by lighting the ceremonial lamp. A total of 52 Bishops, including
those serving in India and abroad as well as retired prelates, are taking part
in the session.<o:p></o:p>

Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil began his inaugural
address by welcoming the Synod Fathers to a genuine experience of episcopal
communion in the unity of the Holy Spirit. In the context of India’s 79th
Independence Day celebrations, the Major Archbishop recalled the nation’s
progress in modern times, the persecution faced by religious minorities
especially Christians in independent India, and the injustices endured by nuns
in the Chhattisgarh. He strongly condemned the growing attacks by communal forces
against Christians across the country. The Major Archbishop assured persecuted
church communities and individuals in different parts of India that they are
not alone and that the Church will always stand with them. He reminded the
Bishops that we should never retreat from the evangelizing mission in the face
of crises. Instead, he called on the Synod Fathers to overcome all shortcomings
in the Church’s mission of evangelization and move forward, praying that we may
experience true and complete freedom by surrendering ourselves fully to the
will of God, like the Blessed Virgin Mary, who was assumed into heaven.<o:p></o:p>

The Major Archbishop also reminded the Bishops that these
are days calling for deep reflection on the changes and reforms needed in the
pastoral style and arrangements of the Church. Expressing hope that this Synod
session will serve as an opportunity to reflect on the urgent steps required to
embody the ecumenical spirit of the Church in all its dimensions, within its
life and activities. He also urged the Synod Fathers to ensure an open and
generous approach in all areas of Pastoral ministry conducive to this vision.
Recalling the exemplary ministry of the Bishops who are celebrating the
jubilees of their Priesthood and Episcopacy, the Major Archbishop congratulated
them and expressed the Church’s deep gratitude for their dedicated service. The
Synod will conclude on Friday, August 29.<o:p></o:p>

Do Not Be Discouraged in the Face of Crises: Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil at Syro-Malabar Synod

New Delhi, 18 August 2025, CBCI: The
National Conference of Catholic Enquiry Centres India (ACECI) was held at
Paalana Bhavana, Bangalore, on 16–17 August, bringing together around 70
participants, including clergy, religious, and laity, for reflection, learning,
and collaboration.<o:p></o:p>

The conference opened with the Holy Mass
and featured thought-provoking sessions led by Rev. Fr. Cyril Victor Joseph,
Rev. Fr. Norbert Herman SVD, ACECI President Delhi, Rev. Fr. Paul D’Souza, Mr.
Sumit Dhanraj, Rev. Fr. Maxim Dias, and Mr. Antony Joseph. Key themes included
digital evangelization, overcoming fear in proclaiming the Gospel, and
strategies for reaching the unreached.<o:p></o:p>

On the second day, His Grace Most Rev.
Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore, celebrated the Holy Mass and, in his
homily, emphasized the enduring importance of keeping alive the “fire of love”
in today’s times.<o:p></o:p>

The conference concluded with a panel
discussion that explored new pathways for the growth and development of the
Catholic Enquiry Centre Ministry. Participants reaffirmed the urgency of
embracing innovative tools, fostering youth involvement, and strengthening
collaboration to build a vibrant, inclusive, and mission-driven CEC Ministry
for the future.<o:p></o:p>

By Dr Norbert Herman SVD<o:p></o:p>

National Conference of Catholic Enquiry Centres India Emphasizes Digital Evangelization and Missionary Outreach

New Delhi, 18 August 2025, CBCI: At 12 noon
today, on the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Pope Leo XIV recited the Angelus
with the faithful and pilgrims gathered at Piazza della Libertà, in front of
the Apostolic Palace of the Pontifical Villas.<o:p></o:p>

Addressing the crowd, the Holy Father
expressed his closeness to the people of Pakistan, India, and Nepal, who have
been severely affected by violent floods. “I pray for the victims and their
families and for all who are suffering because of this disaster,” he said.<o:p></o:p>

The Pope also urged prayers for peace,
stressing the importance of prioritizing the common good in negotiations: “Let
us pray that efforts to end wars and promote peace will be successful; that, in
negotiations, the common good of peoples will always come first.”<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Prays for Flood Victims in India, Pakistan, and Nepal During Angelus

New Delhi, 17 August 2025, CBCI: The Agra
Regional Catholic Council (ARCC) held its General Body Meeting at Navintha
Pastoral Centre, Lucknow, on August 16–17, 2025.<o:p></o:p>

ARCC, the regional unit of the Catholic
Council of India (CCI), represents laity, clergy, and bishops across India,
working for the renewal and updating of the Church in the light of the current
socio-political and religious scenario. A total of 61 delegates participated in
the Study Day and General Body Meeting, including two bishops, 14 priests,
seven sisters, and 38 lay faithful.<o:p></o:p>

The two-day meeting was chaired by Most
Rev. Dr. Raphy Manjaly, President of ARCC, with Most Rev. Dr. Gerald John
Mathias, Bishop of Lucknow, gracing the gathering.<o:p></o:p>

On the first day, resource person Mr. Ajin
Joseph led a session on the theme “Identity &amp; Mission of Christian
Families in These Challenging Times.” He emphasized that Scripture,
Tradition, and the Magisterium are the three sources of Divine Revelation.
Quoting Sr. Lucia of Fatima, he warned: “The last battle will be fought
against marriages and families.”<o:p></o:p>

Mr. Ajin highlighted the dangers posed by
practices such as abortion, contraception, IVF, premarital sex, and
pornography, urging Catholics to become ambassadors in defending the Church’s
teaching on family and marriage. He cautioned that if these sinful perversions
continue to soar, families and marriages risk collapsing in society.<o:p></o:p>

Following group discussions, ARCC members
pledged to take effective steps to spread awareness about the immorality of
such practices. The day concluded with the Drafting Committee presenting a
Final Statement of Action.<o:p></o:p>

The second day began with Archbishop Raphy
Manjaly recapping the previous day’s sessions and introducing the agenda for
the day. Mr. Simon Peter presented the minutes and report of the previous ARCC
meeting held in Agra on September 2–3, 2023, which were approved without major
amendments. Diocesan ARCC secretaries also presented their respective reports.<o:p></o:p>

After a short break, elections for the new
office bearers of ARCC were conducted under the guidance of the Chairman.<o:p></o:p>

By Rev. Fr. Saji Palamattom <o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Agra Regional Catholic Council Holds General Body Meeting in Lucknow

New Delhi, 16 August 2025, CBCI: Kolbe Home, Bengaluru – a sanctuary of hope for children of prisoners and those in distress – celebrated its 10th anniversary with thanksgiving, cultural events, and renewed commitment to its mission. The celebrations were presided over by His Excellency Most Rev. Joseph Susainathan, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bangalore, who led the solemn Thanksgiving Holy Mass and the public gathering that followed.<o:p></o:p>In his homily, Bishop Susainathan described Kolbe Home’s mission as a “living witness to God’s healing love,” praising the selfless dedication of caregivers and Prison Ministry India (PMI) volunteers as “true instruments of Christ’s compassion to the little ones who suffer in silence.”<o:p></o:p>The programme included a Eucharistic celebration, a cultural performance by children of Kolbe Home, Premodaya, and Jeevodaya, followed by a fellowship meal. Rev. Dr. Francis Kodiyan MCBS, CBCI Secretary to Prison Ministry India, welcomed the gathering and honoured the founders, benefactors, and volunteers who laid the foundation of Kolbe Home.<o:p></o:p>During the event, Bishop Susainathan released two books – My Journey with Brethren Behind Bars&nbsp;by Sr Adele Korah and Van Thuan Home&nbsp;by Sr Santan Nago FS. Fr Cyril O de M, in his vote of thanks, recalled the pioneering vision of Fr Sebastian Vadakumpadan, along with the blessings and support of late Archbishops Bernard Moras and Peter Remigius. Named after St. Maximilian Kolbe, the home began with six children and has since sheltered more than 100, currently housing 18 residents with holistic care in education, formation, healing, and life skills.<o:p></o:p>In the afternoon, Bishop Susainathan inaugurated the PMI Studio at the Prison Ministry India National Office, Carmelaram. The modern media hub is envisioned as a platform for digital evangelisation, offering awareness, advocacy, formation programmes, and prayer initiatives to strengthen the mission of prison ministry across India.<o:p></o:p>The anniversary coincided with Prison Ministry Sunday (August 10), observed across the Catholic Church in India with the theme “Fallen Humans May Rise Again on Wings of Prayer.”&nbsp;In his pastoral message, Mar Jose Pulickal, Chairman of the CBCI Office for Prison Ministry, urged the faithful to intensify prayers and acts of mercy for prisoners, echoing Jesus’ words: “I was in prison and you visited me” (Matthew 25:36).<o:p></o:p>As PMI celebrates this milestone, it recommits to bringing Christ’s light into prisons, restoring dignity to the forgotten, and walking alongside prisoners and their families on the path of healing and hope.<o:p></o:p>

Kolbe Home Marks 10 Years of Service to Prisoners’ Children; PMI Studio Inaugurated for Digital Evangelization

New Delhi, 15 August 2025, CBCI: His Holiness Pope Leo XIV
has appointed Rt. Rev. Francis Serrao SJ, presently Bishop of Shimoga, as the
new Bishop of the Diocese of Mysore.<o:p></o:p>

Bishop Francis Serrao was born on August 15, 1959, in
Moodbidri, Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka. The youngest of 11 children,
his family is deeply rooted in religious life, with six siblings serving as
priests - two diocesan, two SVDs, and two Jesuits - and one sister a religious
nun.<o:p></o:p>

He joined the Society of Jesus on January 3, 1979, at Mount
St. Joseph, Bangalore, and was ordained a priest on April 30, 1992. He made his
perpetual profession for the Jesuit Province in Karnataka on May 1, 1999.<o:p></o:p>

Bishop Serrao earned his Master’s in Theology from
Vidyajyothi College of Theology, New Delhi. His pastoral ministry includes
extensive service among Dalits and tribals in Anekal (Bangalore Archdiocese)
and Mundgod (Karwar Diocese) mission stations. He has also taught theology to
Jesuit seminarians and served as Rector of the 136-year-old St. Aloysius
College in Mangalore.<o:p></o:p>

From 2009 to 2014, he served as Superior of the Karnataka
Jesuit Province. <o:p></o:p>

On March 19, 2014, Pope Francis appointed him Bishop of the
Diocese of Shimoga, where he was ordained on May 7, 2014, by Archbishop Most
Rev. Salvatore Pennacchio, the Apostolic Nuncio to India, at Sacred Heart
Cathedral, Shimoga. Bishop Serrao’s pastoral motto is “Service of Faith,
Fullness of Life.”<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Appoints Shimoga Bishop Francis Serrao SJ as New Bishop of Mysore

New Delhi, 8 August 2025, CBCI: The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) has strongly condemned the mob attack on two
Catholic priests and a catechist in Jaleswar, Odisha, on 6 August, describing
it as part of a disturbing pattern of violence against Christian minorities in
the country.<o:p></o:p>

According to reports, the incident occurred when Fr. Lijo,
Parish Priest of St. Thomas’ Church, Jaleswar, accompanied by another priest,
two nuns, and a catechist, was returning to the parish after celebrating a
requiem Mass in a nearby village. While the nuns were rescued by local women,
the priests and catechist were stopped, abused, manhandled, and accused of
religious conversion.<o:p></o:p>

Fr. Lijo’s mobile phone was allegedly seized and not
returned, while the catechist, identified as Mr. Durjyodhan, was brutally
beaten and had his motorcycle damaged. The mob, estimated at around 70 people,
reportedly included many outsiders.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI termed the attack a blatant violation of
constitutional rights and human dignity, warning that the rising trend of mob
violence poses a serious threat to peaceful coexistence. The conference urged
the Odisha government to take swift action to identify and prosecute the
perpetrators and to ensure the safety of minority communities.<o:p></o:p>

Reaffirming its commitment to defend the rights and safety
of all citizens, especially the Christian community, the CBCI stated that it
will continue to monitor the situation closely.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Strongly Condemns Mob Attack on Catholic Priests and Catechist in Odisha

New Delhi, August 7, 2025, CBCI: Thousands of people from
across the country are expected to gather in Bangalore on Saturday, August 9,
for the 4th National March for Life, a peaceful demonstration calling for an
end to abortion and the repeal of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP)
Act.<o:p></o:p>

Organized by CHARIS India in association with the Catholic
Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) and hosted by the Archdiocese of Bangalore,
the event will begin with a Holy Eucharist at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. It
will be followed by a public gathering, a life-themed exhibition, and a march
through the city.<o:p></o:p>

This year’s march marks 54 years since the MTP Act was
passed in 1971. Since then, the law has resulted in millions of abortions
across India. In 2015 alone, more than 15.6 million abortions were recorded - an
average of over 42,000 every day. Amendments made in 2021 now permit abortions
up to 24 weeks and beyond in certain cases, raising concerns over sex-selective
and disability-based abortions, as well as the growth of an underground
abortion industry.<o:p></o:p>

The March will include the participation of families,
doctors, clergy, youth, and women who have experienced the trauma of abortion.
The event aims to raise awareness about the impact of abortion in India and to
promote a society that supports and protects both mother and child.<o:p></o:p>

In a message that continues to inspire the movement, Saint
Mother Teresa of Kolkata once said that the greatest destroyer of peace today
is abortion, because it is a war against the child, and if a mother can kill
her own child, then what is left for you and me to kill each other. She also
said that any country that accepts abortion is not teaching its people to love,
but to use any violence to get what they want.<o:p></o:p>

Now in its fourth year, the March for Life has grown
steadily, drawing increasing numbers of participants each year. Organizers hope
that this year’s event will send a clear and powerful message to both lawmakers
and society: India must protect every human life, from conception to natural
death.<o:p></o:p>

India’s 4th National March for Life to Take Place in Bangalore on August 9

New Delhi, 2 August 2025, CBCI: The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) has welcomed with relief the grant of bail to Sr.
Preethi and Sr. Vandana by the NIA Court in Bilaspur. The two Catholic nuns,
who had been in custody, were released on Saturday - a development that has
brought a sense of hope to the Christian community across the country.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI expressed gratitude to both the Government of India
and the Government of Chhattisgarh for their timely intervention and
cooperation in securing the bail. “We are grateful to the Government for the
support shown in this case. We hope this marks the beginning of renewed efforts
to protect the rights and dignity of all religious minorities in our secular
democracy,” stated Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, President of the CBCI.<o:p></o:p>

While appreciating the government's responsiveness, the CBCI
also called for a stronger commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of
all minorities, especially the right to freedom of religion as enshrined in the
Indian Constitution.<o:p></o:p>

The Bishops’ Conference extended heartfelt thanks to the
Church in India - across all denominations - as well as political leaders,
civil society members, and citizens who stood in solidarity with the two nuns
during this challenging time.<o:p></o:p>

Referring to the specifics of the case, the CBCI noted that
the girls involved are already Christians and legally adults, and therefore,
demanded the immediate quashing of the case. The statement emphasized that such
proceedings are baseless and represent a growing trend of harassment targeting
religious sisters, clergy, and the laity.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI further urged the government to take concrete
measures to curb the increasing incidents of intimidation and false accusations
against members of religious communities, especially those who have committed
themselves to selfless service across the nation.<o:p></o:p>

Reaffirming its commitment to peace, justice, and the rule
of law, the CBCI called upon all citizens of goodwill to continue standing
together in defense of constitutional values and in support of those who serve
society with dedication and love.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Welcomes Bail Grant to Nuns, Urges Protection of Minority Rights

New Delhi, 30 July 2025, CBCI: The Conference of Religious
India (CRI) has strongly condemned the unlawful arrest of two Catholic nuns and
a young man in Chhattisgarh, describing it as a blatant violation of
constitutional rights and an alarming reflection of growing hostility against
minorities in India. In a press statement issued on Wednesday, the CRI
expressed deep pain and anguish over the increasing denial and violation of the
rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution, particularly those of the
poor, the marginalized, the Adivasis, and the Dalits.<o:p></o:p>

The CRI noted that the latest incident involves the arrest
of Sr. Preeti Mary and Sr. Vandana Francis of the Assisi Sisters of Mary
Immaculate (ASMI), along with Mr. Sukhman Mandavi, a resident of Narayanpur.
They were detained at Durg railway station on 26 July 2025 while accompanying
three young women to Agra for employment at a convent. The nuns and the young
man have been charged under Section 143 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
2023 for alleged human trafficking, and under Section 4 of the Chhattisgarh
Religious Freedom Act 1968 for alleged unlawful religious conversion. The CRI
has categorically rejected these charges as completely false and fabricated.<o:p></o:p>

Describing the arrests as unwarranted and illegal, the CRI
condemned the continued targeting of minorities - especially Christians,
Muslims, and Sikhs - amidst a surge in hate speeches and systematic attempts to
undermine freedoms of speech and religion. The organization voiced particular
concern about the disenfranchisement of vulnerable groups, especially in the
state of Bihar, and criticized the apathy of those entrusted with upholding the
law.<o:p></o:p>

The CRI has demanded the immediate and unconditional release
of the two nuns and Mr. Mandavi, and called for all charges against them to be
dropped. It further demanded that those responsible for this incident,
including the Bajrang Dal activists and the police personnel involved, be held
accountable and charge-sheeted. The CRI also urged the Central and State
Governments to ensure the protection of the fundamental rights and freedoms of
all citizens, especially minorities, as enshrined in the Constitution of India.<o:p></o:p>

The CRI concluded its statement by appealing to all people
of goodwill to stand in solidarity and raise their voices against the misuse of
power and the growing culture of religious intolerance across the nation.<o:p></o:p>

CRI Condemns Unlawful Arrest of Catholic Nuns in Chhattisgarh; Demands Immediate Release and Accountability

New Delhi, 28 July 2025, CBCI: The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) has expressed deep anguish and alarm over what it
describes as a growing climate of hostility and violence against minority
communities across the country. In a statement issued on Monday, the CBCI said
that minorities, gripped by fear and pain, are increasingly vulnerable amid
rising attacks by communal elements and the disturbing apathy of authorities
tasked with upholding the law and constitutional values.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI’s concerns come in the wake of a series of
incidents that it believes reflect the deteriorating state of institutional
impartiality. One such incident occurred on 17 June 2025, when BJP MLA Shri
Gopichand Padalkar allegedly made inflammatory remarks during a public speech
in Kupwad, Sangli, Maharashtra. According to reports, the MLA provoked members
of the public against Christians by announcing cash rewards for attacking
Christian priests. “Whoever beats the first priest will get a price of rupees
five lakhs, whoever beats the second will get four lakhs and the third will get
three lakhs. Increased price of eleven lakhs was also offered,” he allegedly
stated.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI emphasized that such incitement warrants immediate
legal action. The statement noted that the speech, widely circulated through
video footage and media, was explicit, direct, and posed a real threat to
public order. It further pointed out that such acts constitute a grave offence
under Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, which penalizes
the promotion of enmity between different groups and threatens national unity.
Despite the seriousness of the statement and peaceful protests by concerned
citizens, law enforcement authorities have reportedly failed to register even a
First Information Report (FIR) against the MLA. The CBCI strongly criticized
this inaction, contrasting it with the swift legal responses often taken
against students, activists, and opposition leaders for minor or peaceful
expressions, including social media posts.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI also highlighted another incident that occurred on
25 July 2025, involving the arrest of two Catholic religious women at Durg
Railway Station in Chhattisgarh. The sisters were detained while accompanying
three girls who were travelling with them. Despite the girls being over 18
years of age and having provided written consent from their parents, the
sisters were reportedly arrested following pressure from communal elements. It
is alleged that they were subjected to physical assault. When the girls’
parents arrived at the police station, they were allegedly prevented by the
police from meeting their daughters. Furthermore, the CBCI noted that a
provision under Section 4 of the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 1968 - absent
in the original FIR - was later added in the Section 173 BNSS report at 5.30 PM
the same day.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI reiterated that the Indian Constitution and its
morality were accepted by the people of India as the guiding dharma of the
nation. It stated that freedom of conscience is not merely a fundamental right
but also part of the basic structure of the Constitution, deeply rooted in
India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Quoting Loknath Misra from the
Constituent Assembly debates, the CBCI reminded the public that “Vedic culture
excludes nothing. Every philosophy and culture has its place.” It also referred
to Rigveda 5:85, which highlights the duty towards one’s neighbour and the
importance of non-interference in others’ freedom of conscience.<o:p></o:p>

Justice Rohinton Nariman was also cited in the CBCI’s
statement, which referred to his book An Ode to Fraternity, where he
underscores the importance of understanding all religions and practising what
is good in each as the only way to live peacefully in a pluralistic society.
The CBCI warned that humanity has progressed toward freedom, liberty, and
equality, and that India should not be reversing this trend. Instead, it called
upon the nation to resist the communalization of democratic institutions and
the erosion of constitutional values.<o:p></o:p>

According to the CBCI, recent developments point to the
deconstruction of the constitutional state and the growing communalization of
independent institutions. It warned that the end of rule of law leads to
anarchy, which no nation can afford. It also expressed concern about the
judiciary, stating that abdication of judicial duty is a dangerous trend. It
referenced recent instances where judges, including a former Chief Justice of
India, were seen either deciding on allegations against themselves or seeking
divine intervention in serious matters instead of relying on the Constitution
and the law.<o:p></o:p>

In view of the gravity of the situation, the CBCI issued a
fervent appeal to the nation and its people of goodwill. It urged the
Government of India and all political parties to rise above partisanship and
take appropriate constitutional steps to safeguard the country and its
citizens. The statement concluded with a call for immediate action to protect
the principles enshrined in the Constitution and to uphold the dignity and
rights of all citizens, regardless of religion.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Raises Alarm Over Attacks on Minorities, Demands Protection of Constitutional Rights

New Delhi, July 27, 2025, CBCI: The Catholic Bishops'
Conference of India (CBCI) has strongly condemned the recent arrest and alleged
physical assault of two Catholic Religious Women at Durg Railway Station.
Expressing deep concern and outrage, the CBCI highlighted that this incident is
part of a disturbing pattern of harassment, false accusations, and fabricated
cases targeting Religious Women in recent months.<o:p></o:p>

In the case at Durg, the Religious Women were reportedly
arrested despite written consent letters from the parents of the accompanying
girls, all of whom are over 18 years of age. Reports also suggest that the
women were physically assaulted following the arrest.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI pointed to a growing trend where anti-social
elements appear to be tracking the movements of Christian Religious Women,
confronting them at public places like railway stations, provoking crowds, and
using abusive and threatening language. “Such incidents not only threaten the
modesty of women but also put their lives in grave danger. These repeated,
unwarranted actions are a serious violation of the Constitution and cannot be
tolerated,” the statement read.<o:p></o:p>

Calling for immediate and decisive measures, the CBCI urged
state governments to ensure the safety and protection of all women, especially
those belonging to religious communities. The Conference also appealed to the
Union Government for urgent intervention to prevent further such incidents.<o:p></o:p>

“The Catholic Church will raise this issue on all
appropriate platforms and will strongly oppose any attempt to malign the
dignity of Religious Nuns and Priests, or to curtail religious freedom,” the
CBCI affirmed.<o:p></o:p>

Reiterating its commitment to justice and constitutional
rights, the CBCI demanded concrete steps to uphold the dignity, safety, and
rights of Religious Women. The Conference assured that it would continue to
monitor the situation and take necessary action to safeguard the rights of all
minorities.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

CBCI Condemns Harassment of Catholic Religious Women, Demands Swift Action for Safety and Justice

New Delhi, July 26, 2025, CBCI: As preparations intensify
for the Jubilee Year 2025, the Vatican’s communications network has inaugurated
a new media space in St Peter’s Square, dedicated to encounter, dialogue, and
hope.<o:p></o:p>

Located beneath the Braccio di Carlo Magno, this newly
established hub was launched live on air on Friday, 25 July, during a special
broadcast of Radio Vaticana con voi. The space will serve as an
operational base for key Vatican media outlets, including Vatican Radio,
Vatican News, L’Osservatore Romano, and Vatican Media.<o:p></o:p>

The initiative, supported by the Vatican Governorate and the
Friends of the Holy Father donor network, aims to accompany pilgrims and
journalists during the Jubilee and other significant Church events, such as the
upcoming canonizations of Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis.<o:p></o:p>

“This small station shows that even the tiniest sparks can
ignite great flames of hope,” said Paolo Ruffini, Prefect of the Dicastery for
Communication. Other Vatican officials highlighted the Church’s responsibility
to be present in digital spaces and to offer a message of hope in a world often
burdened by fear and negativity.<o:p></o:p>

The new media hub reflects a legacy of service to the Popes
and a renewed commitment to sharing stories that inspire faith, hope, and unity
- especially among the younger generations.<o:p></o:p>

News Courtesy: Vatican News&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Vatican Media Expands Its Presence with New Hub for Jubilee Year in St. Peter’s Square

New Delhi, 23 July 2025, CBCI: The CBCI Office for Education and Culture convened its National Council Meeting on 22 July 2025 at the CBCI Centre, New Delhi, under the theme “Catholic Education Today: Challenges, Collaboration, and Commitment to Excellence.” The meeting was presided over by Most Rev. Elias Gonsalves, Chairperson of the CBCI Office for Education and Culture. <o:p></o:p>In his welcoming address, Archbishop Elias Gonsalves emphasized the importance of collective reflection and a renewed commitment to the mission of Catholic education in India. Participants then introduced themselves and shared their respective roles and designations.<o:p></o:p>Fr. Maria Charles, National Secretary of the CBCI Office for Education and Culture presented the official agenda and gave an overview of the key activities of the CBCI Office for Education and Culture. His presentation highlighted the Office’s objectives, achievements, and focus areas.<o:p></o:p>The first major agenda item, “Issues of Concern for the Education Ministry,” facilitated a meaningful exchange among participants. They discussed challenges faced in their respective educational ministries, allowing for shared insights and mutual learning across Catholic institutions.<o:p></o:p>A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the proposal of forming a National-Level Core Team under the CBCI Office for Education and Culture. Attendees offered their suggestions on the composition, structure, and function of the proposed team.<o:p></o:p>This was followed by a session on “Suggestions for AINACS, Xavier Board, AICUF.” Participants were encouraged to provide feedback and propose initiatives that these organizations could undertake in collaboration with the CBCI Office to enhance the impact of Catholic education across the country.<o:p></o:p>In a continued spirit of partnership, the next agenda item focused on “Collaboration with Other National-Level Organizations.” Fr. Maria Charles shared details of existing partnerships and sought recommendations for additional organizations with which CBCI could forge productive alliances.<o:p></o:p>The Council next focused on the introduction of “Guidelines and a Checklist for Catholic Educational Institutions.” The session stressed the need for standardized protocols and accountability frameworks to ensure academic excellence and uphold Catholic values.<o:p></o:p>Planning also began for the upcoming National Consultation on Education, scheduled for 18–20 November 2025. Participants reviewed previous editions of the event and suggested innovative strategies to enhance its structure, content, and outreach.<o:p></o:p>One of the highlights of the meeting was the presentation of the “Planet Fraternity Project,” a global initiative supported by His Holiness Pope Francis. Fr. Maria Charles encouraged all members to promote student participation, noting the project’s alignment with Catholic teachings on fraternity and ecological responsibility.<o:p></o:p>The meeting concluded with a feedback session on the functioning of the National Office for Education and Culture, where participants offered valuable suggestions to improve service delivery and responsiveness.<o:p></o:p>Most Rev. Elias Gonsalves led the closing prayer, marking the end of a productive gathering committed to strengthening Catholic education in India.<o:p></o:p>&nbsp;

CBCI Office for Education and Culture Holds National Council Meeting to Address Key Challenges and Initiatives in Catholic Education

New Delhi, July 22, 2025, CBCI: On Monday morning, His
Holiness Pope Leo XIV received a telephone call from His Excellency Mahmoud
Abbas, President of the State of Palestine, to discuss the latest developments
in the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip and the recent surge of violence in
the West Bank.<o:p></o:p>

During the conversation, the Holy Father reiterated his
urgent appeal for the full respect of international humanitarian law. He
strongly emphasized the obligation to protect civilians and sacred places,
condemned the indiscriminate use of force, and opposed any forced displacement
of the population.<o:p></o:p>

Amid the worsening humanitarian situation, Pope Leo XIV
underlined the pressing need to provide aid to the most vulnerable and to
ensure unhindered access for humanitarian assistance.<o:p></o:p>

The Holy Father also took the opportunity to recall the
tenth anniversary of the Comprehensive Agreement between the Holy See and the
State of Palestine, signed on 26 June 2015 and entered into force on 2 January
2016, highlighting it as a milestone in bilateral relations and a sign of
continued dialogue and cooperation.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Speaks with Palestinian President Abbas Amid Ongoing Gaza Conflict

New Delhi, July 21, 2025, CBCI: Fifty-six years after Apollo
11's historic moon landing on July 20–21, 1969, Pope Leo XIV spoke with
astronaut Dr. Buzz Aldrin on Sunday evening, July 20, 2025. The news of this
special conversation was shared by Vatican News through its official X
(formerly Twitter) handle, highlighting the Pope’s personal outreach on this
milestone anniversary.<o:p></o:p>

Dr. Aldrin, who followed Neil Armstrong onto the lunar
surface while Michael Collins orbited the Moon, also posted on his X account:&nbsp;“Anca
and I were grateful and touched to receive the highest blessing today, from His
Holiness, Pope Leo XIV, on the 56th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing.
What an honor! We prayed for good health, long life, and prosperity for all
humankind.”<o:p></o:p>

Earlier that day, following the Sunday Angelus, Pope Leo XIV
paid a significant visit to the Specola Vaticana - the Vatican
Observatory - located at Castel Gandolfo. The visit coincided intentionally
with the moon landing anniversary. The observatory staff welcomed the Holy
Father with a full tour of the facilities, celebrating the Vatican’s ongoing
commitment to the relationship between faith and science.<o:p></o:p>

The observatory has deep historical roots. In 1891, Pope Leo
XIII, seeking to counter long-standing accusations of the Church's hostility
toward science, formally re-founded the Specola Vaticana and located it
on a hillside behind the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. Pope Leo XIV’s visit on
this commemorative day continues that vision - affirming the Church’s role in
promoting scientific exploration alongside spiritual truth.<o:p></o:p>

By blessing one of the first men on the Moon and visiting
one of the world’s oldest astronomical institutions, Pope Leo XIV once again
demonstrated the Catholic Church’s enduring affirmation that faith and reason
walk hand in hand in humanity’s pursuit of knowledge and wonder.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Blesses Apollo 11 Astronaut Buzz Aldrin on Moon Landing Anniversary, Visits Historic Vatican Observatory

New Delhi, July 21, 2025, CBCI:&nbsp;&nbsp;The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) has appointed Rev. Dr. A. Sebastian as the Secretary of the CBCI Office for Doctrine. The official announcement was made during the 149th Standing Committee meeting of the CBCI.<o:p></o:p>Dr. A. Sebastian, a distinguished theologian and educationist, has made significant contributions to priestly formation and theological scholarship within the Indian Church. Ordained on 25th March 1990, he began his ministry as an Assistant Priest at Birabhanti Parish and soon transitioned into seminary formation. With over two decades of dedicated service in this field, he has held several prominent positions, including Vice-Rector and Resident Professor at St. Joseph’s Regional Seminary, Allahabad, where he currently serves as Rector. He also served two terms (eleven years) as Rector of St. Francis Xavier’s Regional Seminary (Philosophate), Agra-Rajasthan, and spent two years as Rector of the Diocesan Minor Seminary in Varanasi.<o:p></o:p>His academic credentials include a Doctorate in Systematic Theology (Christology) from the Pontificia Università Urbaniana, Rome; an M.Th. from Vidya Jyoti, Delhi; and master’s degrees in both Hindi Literature and Indian Classical Music. Fr. Sebastian has taught theology in numerous seminaries and theological institutes across India, including CMI Theologate, Rishikesh; Premalaya (SVD), Bhopal; Christnagar (IMS), Varanasi; Khristo Jyoti Institute, Sambalpur; and Nav Sadhana, Varanasi.<o:p></o:p>Beyond academics, he has also served in various leadership and pastoral capacities, including as Director of Maitri Bhavan (an interreligious dialogue centre), Secretary for the Regional Yesu Milan Satsang, and Bishop’s Secretary in the Diocese of Jaipur.<o:p></o:p>Fr. Sebastian is also a prolific retreat preacher and a composer of devotional hymns. He has authored two theological books and numerous scholarly articles. His ministry is marked by deep intellectual engagement, spiritual leadership, and cultural sensitivity.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Dr. A. Sebastian Appointed as Secretary of the CBCI Office for Doctrine

New Delhi, July 21, 2025, CBCI: On the 16th Sunday of Ordinary Time, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV presided over the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at 9:30 a.m. in the Cathedral of Albano. The occasion marked a significant moment for the Diocese, as the Holy Father, originally scheduled to visit on May 12, expressed his joy in finally being present among the faithful.<o:p></o:p>In his homily, Pope Leo XIV reflected on the themes of hospitality, service, and listening, drawing from the day’s liturgical readings. He spoke of Abraham’s generous welcome of three mysterious visitors under the harsh sun of the desert and emphasized how this act of hospitality led to the divine promise of new life. Similarly, he highlighted the Gospel scene of Martha and Mary, pointing out that both service and attentive listening are essential, complementary dimensions of Christian hospitality.<o:p></o:p>"These are days when we have more free time... let us use this as an opportunity to care for one another, to exchange experiences and advice," the Pope said, encouraging the faithful to use moments of rest to deepen their relationship with God and others.<o:p></o:p>Citing Pope Francis' Angelus message from July 21, 2019, Pope Leo reminded the congregation of the importance of welcoming Christ not only in prayer and silence but also through action and service, especially toward those in need. He also reflected on the enduring relevance of this teaching in light of the recent global pandemic.<o:p></o:p>The Holy Father acknowledged that both listening and serving require effort and sacrifice but are essential to building authentic relationships and fostering the Kingdom of God in everyday life. He concluded with a reflection on Saint Augustine’s teaching that the toil of this life leads to the rest of the life to come, urging believers to embrace both contemplation and action.<o:p></o:p>Before the final blessing, Pope Leo XIV presented a chasuble to His Excellency Monsignor Vincenzo Viva, Bishop of Albano, as a gesture of fraternal closeness. “We present this gift to His Excellency, an expression of our closeness to his Diocesan Church, with the hope that the Lord’s blessing will always accompany you,” the Pope said.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Celebrates Holy Mass in Albano Cathedral, Emphasizes Hospitality and Listening in Christian Life

New Delhi, July 21, 2025, CBCI: CBCI has appointed Sr. Asha Paul, CHF as the Secretary, CBCI Council for Women. Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) officially confirmed the appointment during its 149th Standing Committee meeting.<o:p></o:p>&nbsp;Sr. Asha Paul CHF is an accomplished advocate practicing in all courts of Delhi, registered with the Bar Council of Delhi (D/1179/2013). With a career rooted in legal empowerment and social justice, she has dedicated herself to representing marginalized and underrepresented communities. Her practice spans civil, criminal, and service matters, with a special emphasis on pro bono litigation and legal aid for those who cannot afford legal representation. Sr. Asha also lends her expertise to Internal Complaints Committees (ICC) across various religious congregations, helping institutions implement gender-sensitive policies and mechanisms for redressal in accordance with the law.<o:p></o:p>&nbsp;In addition to litigation, she is actively involved in prison ministry, where she works to protect the legal rights and dignity of incarcerated individuals. Her professional commitment extends to advocacy and awareness-building, contributing to legal education and policy discussions within faith-based and social institutions. Sr. Asha combines her legal practice with her role in pastoral ministry, serving in the Diocesan Family Apostolate Department and Youth Ministry, where she provides guidance on legal issues affecting families and youth.<o:p></o:p>&nbsp;Adv. Asha holds an LL.M. from Maharaja Agrasen Himalayan Garhwal University (2018–2020), an LL.B. (First Class) from CCS University, Meerut (2010–2013), and a B.A. in Economics (First Class) from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi (2002–2005). With a strong academic foundation and a distinguished legal career, she is widely recognized for her legal acumen and ethical commitment. Her contributions have earned her respect across both legal and pastoral communities, where she continues to be a guiding voice on matters of justice and moral responsibility.<o:p></o:p>&nbsp;

Sr. Adv. Asha Paul, CHF Appointed as the Secretary, CBCI Council for Women

New Delhi, July 19, 2025, CBCI: Rev. Dr. Thomas Vadakkel,
Secretary of the CBCI Office for Doctrine, has been appointed as a member of
the International Committee established by the Vatican's Joseph
Ratzinger–Benedict XVI Foundation (Fondazione Vaticana Joseph
Ratzinger–Benedetto XVI) for the celebrations marking the centenary of the
birth of Pope Benedict XVI.<o:p></o:p>

The Foundation, which was created to promote and preserve
the theological legacy of Joseph Ratzinger–Benedict XVI, has formed this
international committee to oversee and coordinate a range of initiatives ahead
of the centenary on 16 April 2027. These include academic conferences,
publications, research projects, and other commemorative activities that
highlight the thought and theological contribution of the late pope. The aim is
to foster a theology inspired by his work that addresses contemporary
challenges and anticipates future developments in the Church and society.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Dr. Thomas Vadakkel also serves as the Secretary of the
Doctrinal Commission of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) and is a
Professor at the Pontifical Oriental Institute of Religious Studies (POIRS) in
Vadavathoor, Kottayam.<o:p></o:p>

His inclusion in this prestigious committee is a recognition
of his theological expertise and contribution to doctrinal formation in India.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Dr. Thomas Vadakkel Appointed to Vatican Committee for Centenary Celebrations of Pope Benedict XVI

New Delhi, July 18, 2025, CBCI: On Friday morning, from his
residence in Castel Gandolfo, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV held a telephone
conversation with the Prime Minister of Israel, His Excellency Benjamin
Netanyahu, following the Israeli military attack on the Church of the Holy
Family in Gaza on 17 July. The strike claimed the lives of three individuals
and left several others injured, including some in critical condition.<o:p></o:p>

During the call, the Holy Father renewed his strong appeal
for an immediate ceasefire, a return to negotiations, and a definitive end to
the war. He voiced his deep concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in
Gaza, especially the suffering of children, the elderly, and the sick.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV also underlined the urgent need to protect
places of worship and to ensure the safety of all people in Palestine and
Israel, particularly the faithful impacted by the violence.<o:p></o:p>

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