Bengal-Sikkim Church Leaders Strengthen Missionary Vision at Regional Seminar in Siliguri

SILIGURI, June 10, 2026: Church leaders from across the Bengal-Sikkim Region gathered in Siliguri from June 8 to 10 for a three-day orientation seminar focused on renewing the Church’s missionary commitment and strengthening Christian witness in today’s world.

The seminar, held at Dishaangan, Milan More, Siliguri, Bagdogra, was jointly organised by the Regional Proclamation Commission and the Pontifical Mission Organisation of the Bengal-Sikkim Region. It brought together diocesan directors, secretaries and members of both bodies from the region’s dioceses to reflect on the Church’s evangelising mission and explore ways of responding to contemporary pastoral challenges.

The programme was animated by Fr. Paul D’Souza, Executive Secretary of the Proclamation Commission and Secretary General of the Pontifical Mission Organisation of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CCBI). Through a series of presentations, discussions and reflections, he guided participants in deepening their understanding of evangelisation and missionary discipleship.

The seminar centred on four key themes: “What is Evangelisation?”, “The New Evangelisation: Meaning, Theology and Historical Development”, “Challenges to Evangelisation in Contemporary India”, and “Practising the New Evangelisation: Kerygma, Methods and Pastoral Conversion.” The sessions encouraged participants to examine the Church’s mission in the context of rapid social, cultural and religious changes and to discern effective ways of proclaiming the Gospel today.

A recurring emphasis throughout the programme was the understanding that evangelisation is not limited to clergy and religious but is a fundamental vocation of every baptised Christian. Drawing from Sacred Scripture, Church teaching and the insights of recent Popes, Fr. D’Souza highlighted the importance of personal conversion, missionary zeal and authentic Christian witness in daily life.

Participants also received an overview of the history, vision and worldwide activities of the Pontifical Mission Organisation. The presentations highlighted its role in supporting missionary initiatives, fostering missionary awareness and strengthening the Church’s universal mission across nations and cultures.

The seminar was attended by Bishop Stephen Lepcha of Darjeeling-Sikkim, Regional Chairman; Bishop Paul Simick of Bagdogra; Bishop Fabian Toppo of Jalpaiguri; and Fr. Peter Lingdamoo, Regional Secretary. Their presence underscored the regional Church’s commitment to missionary renewal and collaborative pastoral action.

A total of 29 delegates participated in the programme, including 15 priests, three religious sisters, seven laymen and four lay women. Group discussions and the sharing of pastoral experiences enriched the learning process and fostered a spirit of communion among participants.

At the conclusion of the seminar, delegates described the experience as both inspiring and transformative. Many noted that the programme provided a deeper appreciation of the Church’s missionary mandate and renewed their commitment to becoming joyful witnesses of the Gospel in their dioceses, parishes and communities.

By Catholic Connect Reporter