Bishop Simião Fernandes Encourages Communio Directors to Build Bridges of Mission and Solidarity

Old Goa, October 25, 2025 – During the First National Communio Directors Joint Reflection Programme at the Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre, Old Goa, Auxiliary Bishop Simião Purificação Fernandes of Goa and Daman shared his valuable experiences and best practices from his tenure as a former Communio Director.

Bishop Simião addressed the gathering of Communio Directors from dioceses across India, reflecting on practical ways to strengthen communion, encourage lay missionary participation, and support diocesan mission initiatives. He emphasised the importance of promoting prayer for mission, inspiring generosity among the faithful, and creating networks to support young missionaries.

He highlighted several initiatives he successfully implemented during his tenure, including:

Organising mission awareness programmes in parishes and schools.

Promoting Communio Sunday celebrations to encourage active participation.

Establishing mission resource-sharing platforms among dioceses.

Encouraging collaboration between diocesan teams and local communities to strengthen outreach programmes.

Bishop Simião said, “Communio is not just a programme; it is a living witness of the Church’s mission. By fostering collaboration, prayer, and missionary engagement at the diocesan level, we can empower our faithful to serve with love and dedication.”

His session provided directors with practical insights into enhancing the visibility of Communio, promoting collaboration across dioceses, and strengthening support for young missionaries.

The bishop also celebrated the Holy Eucharist, during which he broke the Word on the theme of light, beautifully linking it to the mission of Communio Directors. He invited all present to be “bearers of light” in their dioceses — shining with faith, compassion, and unity in service to the Church’s mission.

The session concluded with Bishop Simião encouraging all Communio Directors to continue implementing these best practices in their dioceses. He reminded them that their leadership and commitment are vital for fostering communion, supporting young missionaries, and ensuring that the mission of the Church reaches every part of India.

By Sr. Margarita Dias SCB