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Northern Region Faith Formation Commission Meets in Chandigarh

Chandigarh, August 10, 2025: The Commission for Faith Formation – Northern Region held its meeting at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Chandigarh, bringing together representatives from the Archdiocese of Delhi, Simla-Chandigarh Diocese, Jammu-Srinagar Diocese, and Jalandhar Diocese. The Archdiocese of Delhi was led by Fr. Manikya Raju, Simla-Chandigarh by Fr. Vianney, Jammu-Srinagar by Fr. S Joseph, and Jalandhar by Fr. Marcus Hans.


Centred on the theme “Ongoing Faith Formation in our Catechetical Ministry”, the meeting began with a hymn to the Holy Spirit and the proclamation of Scripture (Lk 12:35–40) by the Archdiocese of Delhi, followed by the Jubilee Prayer. Mr. Sameer Lakra of the Simla-Chandigarh Diocese welcomed participants.


Sessions Overview

The gathering was divided into two main segments — the Sharing Session and the Planning Session.


Sharing Session

Bishop Deepak Tauro, Chairman of Faith Formation, opened the discussions with reflections on the progress of catechetical ministry across the region. Representatives from each diocese shared updates on recent experiences, events, and programmes. Common points included:


  • The need for innovative methodology and pedagogy in catechism, integrating digital learning resources.
  • Updating catechetical lesson plans to meet present-day needs.
  • Enhancing curriculum with creative and relevant content.


Planning Session

Discussions focused on the promotion of youth engagement through YOUCAT, strengthening Adult Catechesis, and implementing ecological themes in catechetical work.


Key resolutions included:


  • Translating YOUCAT into vernacular languages and using lesson plans from the official YOUCAT website.
  • Creating a Regional YouTube Channel for the Commission for Faith Formation, in collaboration with the Youth and Media Commissions.
  • Identifying lay animators to promote YOUCAT and DOCAT.
  • Employing varied methodologies for Adult Catechesis.


For ecological catechesis, proposals included:


  • Incorporating the teachings of Laudato Si’ into the catechism curriculum.
  • Organising grassroots ecological awareness programmes such as Eco Day, Green Drives, cultural events, and drafting Regional Green Pledges.
  • Instituting a Regional Catechism/Green Day to foster unity.
  • Developing plans to support students who lack access to catechetical instruction.


Closing and Symbolic Gesture

Fr. Joseph and the team from Jammu-Srinagar delivered the vote of thanks, while Fr. Marcus of Jalandhar led the concluding prayer. Bishop Tauro gave the final blessing. In a symbolic act of ecological commitment, participants planted a sapling — a tradition upheld by the Simla-Chandigarh Diocese — before sharing a fellowship meal.


Fr. Vianney

Regional Secretary, Faith Formation

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