Pastoral Workers Trained in Missionary Renewal and AI Tools in Uttarakhand

KOTDWAR, Uttarakhand, September 24, 2026: Nearly 65 pastoral workers from nine dioceses participated in a two-day annual training programme in Kotdwar, Uttarakhand, focusing on missionary renewal, artificial intelligence and the Mission Sunday 2026 message.

The programme was organised by the Agra Regional Commission for Proclamation and the Pontifical Mission Organisations and hosted by the Diocese of Bijnor. Diocesan directors, priests, religious sisters, lay faithful, youth and catechists took part in the training.

Bishop Louis Mascarenhas, chairman of the regional commission, Bishop Vincent Nellaiparambil of Bijnor and Bishop Emeritus John Vadakel were present at the programme.

In his inaugural address, Bishop Vincent encouraged participants to become active builders of the Kingdom of God. Bishop Louis urged them to take the insights gained during the training back to their dioceses and turn them into concrete pastoral initiatives.

Regional Secretary Fr Joy Rodrigues coordinated the programme and presented the theme and message of Mission Sunday 2026. He also encouraged participants to prepare personal action plans to apply the learning in their respective pastoral contexts.

Fr Thomas Antony, O.Praem, a media professional, served as the principal resource person. He conducted sessions on contemporary communication and the responsible evaluation and use of artificial intelligence in pastoral ministry.

The participants received hands-on training in producing pastoral posters, images and video content using digital tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, Gamma, Canva and Google Flow.

The Diocese of Bijnor hosted the programme, with diocesan directors Fr Benny Thekkekara, Fr Linto and Fr Sebastian Mathew assisting in its organisation and execution.

The training combined missionary reflection with practical digital skills, enabling pastoral workers to explore emerging communication technologies while strengthening their commitment to the Church’s evangelising mission.

By Catholic Connect Reporter