CCBI Bishops’ Joint Reflection Programme Begins in Mussoorie

Mussoorie 6 October 2026 : The CCBI Bishops’ Joint Reflection Programme began on Monday, 5 October 2026, at St Francis Monastery in Mussoorie, a Himalayan hill station in the state of Uttarakhand. The programme brings together 39 bishops from different parts of India for a time of prayer, reflection, fraternity and pastoral renewal.

The programme was formally inaugurated by Most Rev. Vincent Aind, Archbishop of Ranchi and Secretary General of the CCBI, who lit the traditional Indian lamp. In his inaugural address, Archbishop Aind highlighted the uniqueness of the Catholic Church in India and the special responsibility entrusted to bishops to guide and accompany the faithful amid the challenges facing the Church and society today. The inaugural Holy Mass was celebrated by Most Rev. Bhashkar Jesuraj, Bishop of Meerut and host bishop of the programme.

The various sessions are being facilitated and animated by Most Rev. Antonysamy Savarimuthu, Archbishop of Madurai; Rev. Dr. Jose Xavier, S.J.; Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI; Rev. Dr. Christopher Vimalraj, Associate Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI; and Mr Joselyn Martin.

During the programme, the bishops are reflecting together on the strengths and challenges of their respective dioceses. They are sharing their pastoral dreams, priorities and plans for the future. The sessions also focus on practical areas of episcopal leadership, including time management, personal management, relationships with priests and religious, financial management and canon law.

The programme seeks to provide the bishops with an opportunity to step back from their demanding pastoral responsibilities, listen to one another and discern together ways of strengthening their leadership and service to the People of God.

A special celebration is planned for Thursday, 8 October, when the bishops will celebrate Holy Mass together with priests, religious and lay faithful. Archbishop Vincent Aind will be the principal celebrant.

The programme is being held at St Francis Monastery, which has a long association with the Capuchin Franciscan tradition. The Capuchin Friars have been present in India since 1632 and are marking almost four centuries of missionary service in the country. Their history in India includes a significant contribution to evangelisation, the formation of the local clergy and the establishment of diocesan structures. 

The presence of the bishops at the monastery also provides an opportunity to recognise and appreciate the long Franciscan missionary heritage and its continuing contribution to the life and mission of the Church in India.

Dr. Stephen Alathara