Bihar Bishops’ Council Strengthens Collaboration on CCBI Pastoral Plan

PATNA, September 25, 2026: The Bihar Regional Bishops’ Council (BRBC) has called for stronger collaboration and shared responsibility in implementing the CCBI Pastoral Plan across the region.

The call came during a workshop at Nav Jyoti Niketan, Patna, attended by 28 participants, including Archbishop Sebastian Kallupura, Bishops Cajetan Osta and James Shekhar, regional commission secretaries, diocesan representatives and lay leaders.

The workshop was animated by Bishop Gerald Lobo, Chairman of the CCBI Pastoral Plan Facilitation Committee, who emphasised the need to move from a mandate-driven approach to one centred on mission, participation and co-responsibility.

Drawing on Pope Leo’s emphasis on the “synergy of communion and co-responsibility”, the gathering explored ways to deepen collaboration at the regional, diocesan and parish levels.

The workshop opened with a synodal prayer comprising a hymn to the Holy Spirit, Scripture reading, silence and shared prayer. Fr Peter Charles, Fr Anil Benet Cruz and Fr Vijay Bhaskar led the prayer in a participatory format.

Archbishop Sebastian highlighted the recent flood-relief efforts in Bihar as an example of “synodality in action”, pointing to the coordination and mutual support demonstrated during the response.

Bishop Gerald reflected on the Pastoral Plan as a transition “from mandate to mission” and presented Jesus’ mission in the Gospels as a model for putting faith into action. He examined its spiritual, social, moral, missionary and Kingdom dimensions.

Regional commission secretaries subsequently presented their Perspective Plans, outlining progress and approaches to implementation. Bishop Gerald appreciated their efforts and offered suggestions for strengthening implementation through a synodal and collaborative approach.

A key focus of the workshop was developing practical strategies for implementing the Perspective Plans at regional, diocesan and parish levels. The discussions also considered the specific pastoral realities of Bihar and the need for approaches that are contextual, participatory and responsive to local needs.

The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment among participants to work together in advancing the CCBI Pastoral Plan and strengthening communion and co-responsibility in the Church’s mission.

By Fr. Peter Charles,

Regional Deputy Secretary, Bihar Region