CHARIS India Leadership Conference Equips Leaders for Spirit-Led Ministry

Kerala, June 26, 2026: With a renewed focus on holiness, discernment and spiritual formation, the National Grand Leaders Conference organised by CHARIS India brought leaders from across the country to the Divine Retreat Centre, Kerala, from 19–22 June. Held under the theme, "Rooted in Christ and Empowered by the Spirit," the conference featured praise and worship, formation sessions, group discussions and fellowship that encouraged participants to deepen their faith and leadership.

Reflecting on the conference theme, Archbishop Francis Kalist reminded participants to be like lambs who listen to and learn from the Good Shepherd. He emphasised the importance of being rooted in Christ to understand one's identity and to love others as the Lord commands. Referring to Luke 6:46–47, he said that those who listen to and obey Christ's teachings are like a person who builds a house on solid rock.

Chevalier Cyril John focused on personal holiness, highlighting the importance of personal prayer, Bible reading, fellowship and a sacramental life. Speaking on the topic of holiness, he also offered an in-depth reflection on the principles of discernment and the various types of discernment.

The need to sustain the fire within prayer groups was emphasised by Br. Savio Mascarenhas, who described them as powerhouses of faith. Quoting Pope St. John Paul II, he said prayer groups are a grace for the sanctification and renewal of the Church. He outlined ten key aspects of vibrant prayer groups, including personal holiness, praise and worship, intercession, the use of charisms and conflict resolution, while encouraging participants to become the spark that ignites others.

Leaders were reminded by Br. Francis Dsouza that they were called to be the cornerstone of their prayer groups. His sessions were complemented by group discussions that enabled participants to reflect on the themes presented.

Fr. Augustine Valloran reflected on forgiveness, explaining that those who forgive receive six graces. He also led participants through Adoration, encouraging them to forgive everyone.

The conference also featured Adoration led by Br. Babu from Chennai, where traditional hymns drew participants into the presence of the Lord, alongside presentations by various initiatives and ministries of the CNSC highlighting their ongoing work and how the Lord was assisting their ministries. On the third day, participants experienced the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, renewing their zeal to serve the Lord more profoundly. The National Grand Leaders Conference concluded as a time of spiritual renewal, formation and fellowship, strengthened by the guidance of experienced resource persons.

By Catholic Connect Reporter