CCBI and Scalabrinians Strengthen Collaboration for Migrant Ministry

Kathmandu, Nepal 16 June 2026: The CCBI Commission for Migrants, in collaboration with the Scalabrinian Congregation, has taken new steps to enhance the pastoral care and accompaniment of migrants through expanded cooperation and joint planning initiatives.

A two-day review and planning meeting was held from 16–17 June 2026 at the Don Bosco Institute, Thecho, Godawari, Lalitpur, Kathmandu, Nepal. The gathering brought together Church leaders and migration ministry experts to assess ongoing programmes and chart future directions for migrant pastoral care in India and beyond.

The meeting reviewed the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Scalabrinians and the CCBI Commission for Migrants. Participants assessed progress made so far and discussed practical ways to deepen cooperation, improve coordination, and expand outreach to migrants through structured programmes at diocesan and regional levels.

Objectives of the meeting included evaluating the current implementation of the MoU, strengthening institutional partnership between the two bodies, and identifying new areas of collaboration to make migrant ministry more effective and responsive to emerging pastoral needs.

Key participants included Archbishop Victor Henry Thakur, Chairman of the CCBI Commission for Migrants, Rev. Dr. Leonir Mario Chiarello, General of the Scalabrinian Congregation, Bishop Paul Simick, Chairman of the Migrant Commission of the Bengal Regional Bishops’ Council, Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI, Fr. Martin Ignacio Gutierrez, Provincial of Australian Province of Scalabrian Congregation, Fr. Adv. Jaison Vadassery, Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Migrants, and Fr. Edwardo, Professor of Christ University, Bangalore.

Discussions focused on strengthening diocesan and regional migrant commissions, improving coordination between partners, and developing new pastoral strategies to respond to the increasing challenges faced by migrants.

The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to build a more coordinated and compassionate response to migration, with an emphasis on collaboration, pastoral outreach, and institutional strengthening at all levels.

By Catholic Connect Reporter