BCRI Gathering Focuses on Mental Health and Spiritual Maturity of Young Religious

BENGALURU, September 13, 2026: Nearly 450 junior religious from different zones gathered at Sophia School, Bengaluru, for the Bangalore Conference of Religious India (BCRI) Juniors’ Gathering, focusing on mental health and spiritual maturity in religious life.

Held under the theme “Mental Health and Spiritual Maturity,” the one-day gathering offered the participants opportunities for prayer, formation, reflection, fellowship and shared learning, with particular attention to emotional well-being and holistic growth in vocation.

The programme opened with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr. Benni Koottanal MSFS. The participants took part through hymns, Scripture readings and the Prayer of the Faithful. A ceremonial lighting of the lamp followed the Eucharist, symbolising hope, wisdom and divine guidance.

BCRI President Fr. Anthony Swamy welcomed the participants, while Fr Anto CMI introduced the guests. Saplings were presented to Fr. Benni Koottanal, Sr. Mary Chetana, Provincial Superior of the Notre Dame of Visitation Province, and Sr Alpana, Principal of Sophia School, as a gesture of appreciation.

Addressing the gathering, Sr Mary Chetana encouraged the young religious to remain rooted in Christ, value their vocation and approach formation with openness, responsibility and a spirit of service. She also stressed the importance of nurturing their inner life and remaining attentive to God’s guidance.

Fr. Benni Koottanal led the first two sessions, focusing on mental well-being, spiritual growth and holistic maturity. He encouraged participants to understand themselves better, recognise the importance of emotional and spiritual health, and face challenges in religious life with faith, wisdom and discernment.

He reminded them that a life dedicated to God is never wasted and that difficulties can become opportunities for personal, spiritual and vocational growth.

An interactive question-and-answer session enabled the participants to connect the reflections with their own experiences and raise questions related to their journey in religious life.

The afternoon programme, led by Fr. Arogya Raj SDB, Executive Member of BCRI, included warm-up activities, group discussions, sharing and reflection. Ten groups presented their reflections and learning, fostering an atmosphere of openness and fellowship.

The gathering concluded with a vote of thanks by Sr Jain Mary, Executive Member of BCRI. She acknowledged the contribution of the organisers, resource persons, zonal leaders and participants.

The programme was coordinated by the BCRI team, particularly Sr. Rani Thumma, Secretary of BCRI, in collaboration with the Richmond Town Zone and other zonal leaders. The organisers also expressed gratitude to the Sisters of Notre Dame for providing the venue and hospitality.

The gathering concluded with a renewed emphasis on mental well-being, spiritual maturity, resilience and compassionate relationships as essential dimensions of religious formation.

By Catholic Connect Reporter