CCBI Meeting Calls for Stronger Christian Unity, Interfaith Engagement

MYSURU, October 29, 2026: Christian unity, interreligious dialogue and cooperation on common social concerns were the focus of a national meeting of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) Commission for Ecumenism held in Mysuru on October 27–28.

The gathering at Satyaniketan Catholic Centre brought together about 100 bishops, priests, religious and lay leaders, along with national and regional representatives, to examine ways of strengthening relationships among Christian Churches and people of different faiths within the Church’s synodal journey in India.

Bishop Francis Serrao of Mysore, chairman of the CCBI Commission for Ecumenism, called for an ecumenical culture rooted in prayer and dialogue, saying Christians needed to become credible witnesses in a divided world.

Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath, bishop of the Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Mandya, stressed that efforts towards Christian unity should be free from prejudice against other Churches and religions. He also called for cooperation in addressing shared human concerns and promoting social harmony.

Jesuit Fr Vincent Sekhar led sessions on the relationship between synodality, ecumenism and interreligious dialogue. His presentations examined how listening, trust and mutual respect could strengthen relationships among Christian traditions and foster constructive engagement with other religions.

He also highlighted the role of interreligious dialogue in promoting peace, social harmony and the common good. Both sessions were followed by discussions among participants.

A panel discussion featuring representatives of the Orthodox, Church of South India, Methodist, Assemblies of God and Pentecostal Churches provided a platform to discuss concerns and explore practical avenues for greater cooperation. Bishop Serrao moderated the discussion, while Fr Denis D’Sa of the Diocese of Udupi moderated the morning session.

The second day focused on the Commission’s activities and future priorities. Bishop Aplinar Senapati of Rayagada presided over the Eucharistic celebration before the meeting resumed its deliberations.

National Secretary Fr Anthaiah Kondaveeti presented the Commission’s annual report, followed by updates from regional secretaries. Participants reviewed the implementation of the CCBI Pastoral Plan, assessed ongoing ecumenical initiatives and discussed plans for future activities.

In their concluding remarks, Bishop Serrao and Bishop Senapati urged regional secretaries to strengthen relationships with Christians of other traditions and people of other religions, highlighting the importance of such engagement in contemporary society.

The Diocese of Mysore, particularly Bishop Serrao and Satyaniketan Catholic Centre, was acknowledged for hosting the meeting.

The two-day gathering sought to translate discussions on Christian unity and interreligious dialogue into practical initiatives, reinforcing their place in the Church’s mission and engagement with wider society.

By Fr. Anthaiah Kondaveeti, National Secretary & Fr Arul Selva Kumar, Diocese of Mysore