- 01 May, 2026
Bengaluru, May 1, 2026: Much of the Catholic Church’s national-level coordination and pastoral planning in India is carried out quietly, through sustained leadership. In this space, Fr. Stephen Alathara, serving as Deputy Secretary General of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India, has played a key role in guiding initiatives that shape the Church’s direction across the country.
Born on May 1, 1970, in Kerala, Fr. Alathara belongs to the Archdiocese of Verapoly and was ordained a priest on January 26, 1995. He is academically accomplished, holding advanced degrees in catechetics, administration, and a PhD from the Salesian Pontifical University, Rome, Italy where his research focused on moral and faith formation in children.
Over the years, he has served in multiple pastoral and administrative roles, including parish priest, seminary formator, diocesan spokesperson, and director of various Church departments. He also served the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) as Deputy Secretary General and spokesperson and the Director of the Pastoral Orientation Centre (POC) before moving to the national level.
Beyond administration, he is a theologian, educationist, and prolific author, having written over 20 books and numerous articles, with his work in catechetics widely used in seminaries in India and abroad.
Those who have worked closely with him often speak of a presence that brings energy into every setting—someone who approaches his work with visible joy and an infectious zeal for the Church, while consistently pushing ideas forward and seeing them through.
Leadership in the CCBI: Four Consecutive Terms
Fr. Alathara has been serving as the Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI since 2014 and has been appointed four consecutive times—in 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026.
This makes him one of the longest-serving individuals in this key position, reflecting the confidence of the bishops in his leadership and administrative capabilities. His continuity has provided stability and direction to the functioning of the national episcopal conference.
Key Contributions to the Church
1. Strengthening National Church Structures
As Deputy Secretary General, Fr. Alathara plays a central role in coordinating the functioning of the CCBI, which represents the Latin Catholic bishops of India. His responsibilities include facilitating communication among bishops, organizing national initiatives, and ensuring implementation of pastoral priorities.
2. Architect of Pastoral Vision
He was instrumental in preparing the CCBI Pastoral Plan 2024, a major roadmap guiding the Church’s mission in India in areas such as evangelization, education, and social outreach.
3. Founding and Institutional Contributions
Fr. Alathara has contributed to the establishment and development of several important Church institutions and initiatives, including:
4. Communication and Public Engagement
Known for his clarity in communication, he has served as a spokesperson at both diocesan and national levels. He frequently addresses youth, educators, and Church leaders, emphasising leadership, spiritual growth, and social responsibility.
5. Contribution to Education and Catechetics
With specialisation in catechetics, he has significantly influenced Catholic education in India. His textbook Introduction to Catechetics is widely used in formation houses, shaping future priests and educators.
6. Promoting a Self-Reliant Church
Through initiatives like Communio, he has advocated for a Church that is collaborative, sustainable, and mission-oriented, encouraging dioceses and institutions to work in communion and mutual support. In this broader vision, he has also actively supported Church-based digital initiatives such as Catholic Connect, recognising their role in strengthening communication, participation, and engagement across the Catholic community in India.
A Voice of Continuity and Vision
From his early ministry in Kerala to his continued service at the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India, Fr. Stephen Alathara’s journey reflects years of steady involvement in initiatives, institutions, and national efforts within the Church in India.
What stands out across this journey is not just the range of responsibilities he has held, but the consistency with which he has remained engaged in his work—continuing to take initiatives forward, responding to emerging needs, and staying rooted in the mission of the Church.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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