CCBI Western Region Holds Three-Day Meet on Integral Ecology in Goa

BENAULIM, Goa, Sept. 3, 2025 — The Western Region of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) convened a three-day eco-meet on Integral Ecology from August 29 to 31 at Shanti Sadan in Benaulim, Goa. Centered on the theme, "Hearing the Cry of the Earth and the Cry of the Poor: Translating Laudato Si’ and Laudate Deum into Diocesan Action," the gathering brought together bishops, clergy, and delegates from the dioceses of Amravati, Nagpur, Nashik, Sindhudurg, and Goa to explore practical ways of addressing ecological issues and climate change through the lens of the Catholic faith.

Bishop Simão Purificação Fernandes, Chairman of the CCBI Commission for Ecology, Western Region, guided the event, while Fr. Bolmax Pereira coordinated it. In his inaugural address on the first day, Bishop Simiao stressed the urgency of the global ecological and climate crisis, urging parishes to take concrete actions to address it ahead of COP30. Supporting this call, Fr. Bolmax Pereira highlighted the theological roots of integral ecology and emphasised that true ecological awareness must translate into tangible action. “The cry of the Earth and the cry of the poor are one and the same,” he declared, “and demand an urgent conversion of humanity.

A key highlight of the meeting was the sharing of successful field models. Members of the Goa Diocesan Commission for Ecology (DCE) shared their experiences, including their annual “Season of Creation” programme, which mobilises communities for agriculture revival, clean-up drives, tree plantations, and celebrations of the ecological uniqueness of the host village. Members of the youth-driven Chicalim Youth Farmers Club (CYFC) delivered an inspiring presentation, demonstrating how their passion for farming evolved into a professional collective. They showcased a powerful example of young people balancing studies and jobs while maintaining a deep commitment to sustainable agriculture.

The conference also featured a dynamic panel of experts, including Mr. Orville Dourado, Adv. Richard Almeida, youth activist Shohail Furtado, and waste management expert Godfrey Franklin. They urged the delegates, particularly the youth, to become “freedom fighters for the environment”.

On the final day of the meet, His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão celebrated Holy Mass. In his homily, the cardinal emphasised the importance of humility in service to the poor and the environment. “Be humble enough to let anyone smaller than you or poorer than you be before you,” he urged.

During the meeting, delegates strategised the formation of dedicated Ecology Commissions in every diocese, using the Goa DCE’s blueprint for success. Fr. Bolmax highlighted that including members from diverse backgrounds—from marine scientists to financial experts and youth—on board a diocesan ecological commission ensures its effectiveness.

The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among participants who committed to carrying the mission of Integral Ecology forward in their respective communities. Through this event, the CCBI’s Western Region has taken a significant step towards making environmental action a core part of its mission, demonstrating that faith and ecological responsibility are inseparable.

By Fr. Bolmax Pereira

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