45th KRLCC General Assembly to Convene in Kochi; Union Minister George Kurian to Inaugurate

Kochi, July 9, 2025: The Kerala Region Latin Catholic Council (KRLCC), the apex policy-making and coordinating body for Latin Catholics in Kerala, will hold its 45th General Assembly at the Alpha Pastoral Centre in Edakochi from July 11 to 13. The gathering will be inaugurated by Union Minister for Fisheries and Minority Welfare, George Kurian.

Archbishop Dr. Varghese Chakkalakal, President of KRLCC, will preside over the inaugural session. The event will also feature a blessing address by Bishop Dr. James Raphael Anaparambil, Apostolic Administrator of the Archdiocese of Cochin. Bishop Selvaraj D. of Neyyattinkara Diocese will be honoured during the ceremony. Among the other key speakers are MP Hibi Eden, MLA K. J. Maxi, KRLCC Vice President Joseph Jude, and Secretary Patrick Michael.

The Assembly will include multiple study sessions on key issues affecting the Church and society. Topics include the role of laity in ecclesial and social life, education and social development, migration and diaspora communities, and the Church’s vision for children. Dedicated sessions will also focus on women’s participation and the Church's commitment to justice, peace, and development.

Moderators and presenters include priests, educators, social thinkers, and religious sisters, such as Fr. Benny Poothara, Thomas K. Stephen, Fr. Noel Kurishingal, Fr. Arun Thaiparambil, Sr. Niranjana C.S.S.T., and Dr. Biju Vincent. The discussions aim to foster deeper engagement of the faithful in the Church’s mission and address contemporary challenges.

The Assembly will also deliberate on preparations for the upcoming local body elections, organisational concerns, and public issues through open forums and committee meetings. Reports on previous sessions, KRLCC’s activities, financial matters, and political affairs will be presented by designated representatives.

The closing ceremony will feature the distribution of scholarships and a press briefing. Bishops from across the Latin dioceses in Kerala, along with lay representatives and members of religious congregations, are expected to participate in this significant Church event.

By Catholic Connect Reporter