North East CRI leaders chart mission path in Guwahati

Guwahati, August 30, 2025: The 44th Conference of Religious India Northeast (CRI NE) Assembly opened today at the Social Forum in Guwahati, bringing together 115 participants from 98 religious congregations across Northeast India. The three-day assembly will conclude with the Pastoral Conference, which begins on 1 September 2025, and focuses on strengthening collaboration in mission work.

The opening day centred on the Pastoral Plan 2033, themed “Empowerment of the Religious of Northeast as Missionary Disciples of Jesus for Mission Northeast 2033.”

Fr. G.P. Amalraj, Regional Deputy Secretary for the Bishops’ Council, inaugurated the assembly by unveiling the plan. He noted that contributions were made from 13 dioceses of the region. Stressing the importance of collective effort, he said the mission goals for 2033 can only be realised through close collaboration among priests and religious. He conveyed blessings for the discussions on behalf of the Northeast India Regional Bishops’ Council (NEIRBC).

In his address, Fr. Charles Leone, National Secretary for Vocations, Religious, Clergy, and Seminarians (VRCS), underlined the significance of this year as it marks the centenary of Christ’s first outreach to the Northeast. Drawing inspiration from the hymn “No Turning Back”—“the cross before me…the cross behind me”—he reminded participants of the faith that continues to inspire countless lives in the region.

Fr. Charles engaged the assembly with a reflection on the icon of consecrated life (vita consecrata). A Sister from the Holy Cross Menzingen responded by identifying “the Transfigured Christ” as the essence of vocation, symbolising light and presence rather than worldly signs. Fr. Charles urged the Church to nurture “a passion for the mission, not just for institutions.”

On the subject of vocations, Trinitarian priest Fr. Jolly observed that the focus must be on inspiring vocations rather than merely promoting them. The animator, echoing this sentiment, emphasised that personal accompaniment is the true path to forming future disciples of Christ.

The CRI NE Secretary, Sr. Theresa Joseph, MSMHC—conducting the programme for the first time since assuming office—described the assembly as more than a regional event. “It is a national testament to the Catholic Church’s commitment to spreading Christ’s message,” she said. The presence of all provincials from major congregations, including the indigenous Mary Help of Christians (MSMHC) and Mother General Christiana, underscored the event’s significance.

This year’s assembly is also notable for being the first under the leadership of new President Sr. Mabel Gotherp, FMA, Provincial of Guwahati, alongside Secretary Sr. Theresa Joseph, MSMHC.

By NESCOM

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