Bengal-Sikkim Region Reviews Implementation of CCBI Pastoral Plan

Kolkata, September 30, 2026: The Bengal-Sikkim Region has committed to strengthening the implementation of the CCBI Pastoral Plan through focused action, regular evaluation and greater coordination among its commissions.

Nine regional secretaries and six diocesan commission heads participated in a day-long session with Bishop Gerald Issac Lobo, Chairman of the Committee for the Implementation of the CCBI Pastoral Plan, at Archbishop’s House, Kolkata, on September 28.

Archbishop Elias Frank welcomed Bishop Lobo and the participants. Reflecting on the purpose of pastoral planning, Bishop Lobo said the plans must remain rooted in the Gospel and seek to improve the lives of people in the spirit of Christ’s ministry.

During the session, commission secretaries presented their achievements, experiences and challenges in implementing their respective action plans. Participants also discussed the possibility of combining activities of some commissions to prevent duplication and promote greater collaboration.

The meeting stressed the need for each commission to have a secretary responsible for preparing concrete plans based on pastoral needs. It was also proposed that regional pastoral plans be printed and circulated among commission secretaries to facilitate coordinated implementation.

Bishop Lobo urged the participants to keep pastoral planning realistic and focused on achievable goals. “Just picking up two activities and executing it well is better than having many plans and not able to complete anything well,” he said.

He also encouraged the team to meet every six months to review progress, share successful initiatives and identify areas requiring improvement. The session concluded with an emphasis on using pastoral planning as a means of bringing about meaningful and qualitative changes in the lives of people.

By Catholic Connect Reporter