Catechists of Hazaribagh Gather for Lenten Retreat in Jharkhand

Hazaribagh, February 25, 2025: On the threshold of Lent, hundreds of catechists from across the diocese of Hazaribagh assembled at the Bishop’s House from February 20 to 23 for their annual retreat, entering a period of prayer, reflection, and communal renewal.

Framed by the spiritual discipline of the Lenten season, the gathering offered catechists an opportunity to step away from pastoral routines and renew their vocation in faith. Through guided reflections and moments of silence, participants deepened their interior life while reaffirming their mission to proclaim the Gospel within parish communities.

The retreat emphasised the apostolic identity of catechists as animators of faith, inviting them to draw inspiration from the witness of Christ’s first disciples. Sessions highlighted the call to bear credible Christian witness through both word and life, particularly amid contemporary pastoral challenges.

Spiritual direction for the retreat was provided by Anand Jojo, whose reflections helped shape the theological and pastoral focus of the programme. Resource persons further enriched the formation sessions, strengthening participants’ grounding in catechetical ministry.

The retreat was organised under the leadership of Sr. Neelam Xess HC, Directress of the Catechetical Centre, whose coordination ensured a prayerful and structured environment conducive to reflection and sharing.

As the days progressed, communal prayer and personal discernment gave way to testimonies of renewed spiritual strength and clarity of purpose. Catechists expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with their calling and to foster deeper communion with fellow ministers serving in diverse pastoral contexts.

Returning to their respective parishes, participants carried with them a renewed sense of mission and unity, marking the retreat as a meaningful beginning to their Lenten journey and a source of enduring pastoral inspiration.

By Fr. Anup Lakra

Hazaribagh Diocese