64th Regional Catholic Council of the North Held in Jammu: Marking the 800th Anniversary of the Death of St. Francis of Assisi

“Go, Rebuild My Church”

The 64th Regional Catholic Council of the North (RCCN) was held on 26–27 September 2026 at Maitri Bhavan, Pastoral Centre, Smailpur, Bari Brahmana, Jammu, with the theme “Go, Rebuild My Church”, commemorating the 800th anniversary of the Transitus of St. Francis of Assisi.

The gathering commenced with prayer, followed by the inauguration and welcome address by Most Rev. Ivan Pereira, Rev. Fr. Dominic, Director of Maitri Bhavan, then offered the guidelines for the Council.

The first session, “St. Francis of Assisi: A Gospel-Centred Vision for a Church in Renewal,” was led by Rev. Sr. Dhanya FCC and moderated by Rev. Dr. Fr. Mathew Pala. The session reflected on the life and spirituality of St. Francis and their relevance for the renewal of the Church today.

The session also included a meaningful discussion on Peace, Justice, Poverty and Care for Creation, viewed in the light of the life, spirituality and witness of St. Francis of Assisi.

The participants reflected on how the Franciscan call to simplicity, solidarity with the poor, reconciliation, justice and respect for creation can inspire the Church today to become a more compassionate, just and responsible community.

The second session, “Go and Rebuild My Church: Jubilee Year Message and Its Significance for the Church,” was presented by Rev. Fr. Suresh OFM Cap and moderated by Most Rev. Sahaya Thatheus Thomas, Bishop of Simla–Chandigarh. The day continued with diocesan group discussions, presentations, reports, and the development of a roadmap for action. Reports of the various Regional Commissions were also presented.

The first day concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Most Rev. Ivan Pereira, Bishop of Jammu-Srinagar, with the liturgy organised by the Archdiocese of Delhi.

The second day began with morning prayer, followed by the presentation and clarification of the minutes of the 63rd RCC by Mr. Babu Bunty, Secretary, RCCN. A review of the implementation of the previous Diocesan Action Plan was then conducted under the Chairmanship of His Grace Most Rev. Anil J. Thomas Couto. General information and other updates were also shared with the participants.

The Council concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Most Rev. Anil J. Thomas Couto, with the liturgy organised by the Diocese of Jammu–Srinagar, in observance of the World Day of Migrants and Refugees.

A cultural programme followed the Eucharistic celebration, bringing together the participants in fellowship and joy.

The Diocese of Simla–Chandigarh offered the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to the successful organisation of the Council.

The two-day gathering concluded on a meaningful note, inspiring the participants to embrace the call to “Go, Rebuild My Church” through renewed faith, communion, participation and missionary commitment, inspired by the example of St. Francis of Assisi.

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