CCBI, TCBC Hold Formation Seminar on Ecumenism and Interreligious Dialogue in Khammam Diocese

Khammam, Telangana, June 9, 2026: Efforts to promote Christian unity and foster dialogue among faith communities received renewed emphasis as the CCBI Commission for Ecumenism, in collaboration with the Telugu Catholic Bishops’ Council (TCBC) Commissions for Ecumenism and Dialogue, organised a formation seminar for clergy, religious and lay faithful of the Diocese of Khammam on June 9.

The seminar, held at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre in Naidupet at the invitation of Bishop Sagili Prakash, brought together approximately 165 participants for a day of reflection, formation and discussion on ecumenical and interreligious engagement.

The programme opened with a welcome address by Msgr. T. Showry, Vicar General and Diocesan Coordinator for Ecumenism and Dialogue. A traditional lamp-lighting ceremony involving representatives of the clergy, religious, laity and bishops marked the formal inauguration of the event.

In his keynote address, Bishop Sagili Prakash underscored the importance of Christian unity and meaningful dialogue in building a society rooted in justice, peace and harmony. He encouraged participants to become active promoters of fraternity and reconciliation in their communities.

Addressing the gathering, Bishop Anthony Das Pilli, Chairman of the TCBC Commissions for Ecumenism and Dialogue, reflected on the continuing relevance of the First Council of Nicaea in the contemporary Church. He urged the faithful to move beyond individualistic approaches to faith and embrace a community-oriented vision that translates belief into concrete acts of service and human development. He also highlighted the need for openness, mutual understanding and cooperation among followers of different religions in pursuit of the common good.

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A significant moment during the seminar was the release of the Telugu translation of Pope Leo XIV’s Apostolic Letter In Unitate Fidei. The publication was formally launched by the bishops and distributed to participants as a resource for deeper reflection on Christian unity.

Fr. Kondaveeti Anthaiah, Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Ecumenism, spoke on the Church’s mission of fostering unity among Christians. He encouraged participants to take practical steps towards ecumenical collaboration and strengthen bonds of friendship and fraternity with people of other faith traditions.

Representing Independent Churches, Bishop Jacob Marneni called on Christians to cultivate the mind of Christ through love, humility, sacrifice and service. He stressed that authentic Christian witness is reflected in relationships marked by mutual respect and selfless concern for others.

The seminar concluded with an interactive session during which participants engaged in discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing ecumenical and interreligious efforts today. Many described the programme as enriching and beneficial, both for their personal faith journey and their pastoral ministry.

Organisers expressed hope that the formation initiative would inspire greater commitment to Christian unity and constructive dialogue, strengthening the Church’s witness in an increasingly diverse society.

By Catholic Connect Reporter