Chandigarh Deanery Launches Implementation of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan

The Chandigarh Deanery successfully held its Implementation Strategy Meeting at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre (DPC), Chandigarh, with the participation of 65 participants comprising priests, religious, and lay faithful.

The gathering marked the official launch of the deanery-level implementation of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan 2026–2033.

The programme commenced with a hymn to the Holy Spirit by St. Anne's Parish, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Most Rev. Dr. Sahaya Thatheus Thomas, along with the Vicar General, the Dean, Fr. John Vianney, Mr. Happy Shergill, and representatives of the laity and youth.

The participants then reflected on the Great Commission through the proclamation of Matthew 28:18–20, followed by a Gospel-based prayer and the Pastoral Commitment Prayer.

The gathering was warmly welcomed by Mr. Dominic, who greeted the participants and invited everyone to journey together in implementing the diocesan vision.

In his keynote address, Most Rev. Dr. Sahaya Thatheus Thomas highlighted the central role of family faith formation, emphasizing that the family is the first school of faith and the foundation for building a vibrant and missionary Church. He called upon every parish to place renewed focus on nurturing faith within families through active participation and collaboration.

Fr. John Vianney, Coordinator of Commissions, presented the theme "We, the Synodal Church," stressing the importance of communion, participation, and mission in the life of the Church.

Rev. Fr. Maria Selvadas, Vicar General, reflected on the theme "The Church Exists to Evangelize." Drawing inspiration from St. Devasahayam, the Patron of the Laity in India, he presented the saint as a model of courageous faith and committed discipleship, encouraging the lay faithful to embrace their baptismal vocation and become active evangelizers in their families and society.

Mr. Happy Shergill conducted a practical session on Implementation, Monitoring, Reporting, and Evaluation, outlining the mechanisms that will guide the effective implementation of the Pastoral Plan across the deanery.

One of the major highlights of the meeting was the formation of four implementation groups under the guidance of Bishop Sahaya Thatheus, enabling participants to develop practical strategies for implementing the pastoral priorities in their respective parishes and ministries.

The programme concluded with a Green Drive – Plant a Tree initiative led by Cathedral Parish, reaffirming the Diocese's commitment to care for creation.

Ms. Sandra proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the Bishop, clergy, religious, lay representatives, organizing team, and all participants for their wholehearted contribution to the success of the meeting. The meeting concluded with the blessings of our Bishop, followed by fellowship meal.