Gandhinagar Archdiocese Organises Training Session to Strengthen Basic Ecclesial Communities

HIMMAT NAGAR, Gujarat, February 28, 2025: The Commission for Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC) of the Archdiocese of Gandhinagar organised a training session for clergy and religious on February 26, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Himmat Nagar, Gujarat. The event aimed to strengthen and build BECs across the archdiocese as part of the synodal process and Jubilee Year celebrations. Led by Fr. Julian Raj, the BEC Commission coordinator of the archdiocese, and supported by Most Rev. Thomas Macwan, Archbishop of Gandhinagar, the session brought together 82 participants who engaged in discussions on fostering vibrant faith communities.

The session commenced with a solemn Bible Enthronement ceremony, setting a spiritual tone for the day. Fr. Julian Raj then welcomed the participants and presented a brief video showcasing the life and mission activities of BECs within the archdiocese of Gandhinagar. In his keynote address, Archbishop Thomas Macwan urged the faithful to give the Holy Bible the same amount of reverence that they give to the Body of Christ and to recognise the transformative power of the Word of God in their daily lives.

Rev. Fr. George Jacob Palackaparambil SAC, the National Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for BECs, delivered a compelling presentation on the significance of the Word of God in Christian communities. He elaborated on the concept of BECs and their crucial role in fostering a Synodal Church. He also underscored the responsibilities of clergy and religious in nurturing these communities.

Ms. Jennifer Fernandes, a member of the National Council for BECs, further enriched the session by elaborating on the four essential marks of a BEC and the deeper significance of Gospel sharing. She highlighted how this practice strengthens Christian communities, bringing them closer to the teachings of Christ and one another.

The session concluded with participants collaboratively formulating a concrete action plan to advance the BEC initiative within the Archdiocese. Their collective commitment reaffirmed the words of the Holy Scripture that indeed, “The harvest is plentiful, and the labourers are many.”

By Fr. George Jacob SAC,

National Executive Secretary,

CCBI Commission for BECs