Federation of Telugu Churches Holds Consultation to Strengthen Ecumenical Engagement in Secunderabad

Secunderabad, February 18, 2026: Strengthening unity among Christian communities in the Telugu region was the focus of a consultation organised by the Federation of Telugu Churches (FTC) on February 16 at the Jyotirmai Centre in Sikh Village.

The consultation was chaired by Bishop Anthony Das Pilli, Chairman of FTC, and brought together around 20 participants, including bishops, priests, pastors and lay leaders from various Christian denominations. The gathering reviewed ecumenical initiatives undertaken in 2025 and mapped priorities for the coming year.

Presenting an overview of the Federation’s activities, Fr. K. Anthaiah, Secretary of FTC, outlined key programmes implemented across the Telugu region. The review enabled participants to assess progress in fostering inter-church collaboration and identify areas requiring renewed focus.

Planning for 2026 formed a major component of the consultation. Fr. Anthoniraj Thumma, Secretary of the CBCI Office for Dialogue and Desk for Ecumenism and Advisor to FTC, offered recommendations to strengthen coordination and deepen ecumenical engagement among Churches.

Participants unanimously appreciated the Federation’s initiatives and called for their continued expansion. Special emphasis was placed on establishing District Action Committees at the grassroots level as part of preparations for the Federation’s Silver Jubilee in 2030.

Deepak John, Chairman of the Telangana Christian Minority Finance Corporation, attended as Guest of Honour. Addressing the gathering, he assured participants that the government would respond to the genuine needs of the Christian community.

In his concluding remarks, Bishop Das Pilli urged Churches across the Telugu region to strengthen unity and collaboration, stressing that sustained ecumenical engagement is essential for the common good and for a credible Christian witness in society.

By Fr. K. Anthaiah