Release of Diocesan Pastoral Plan at Christ the King Cathedral

The Diocese of Simla-Chandigarh witnessed a significant and grace-filled occasion on May 13, 2026, with the official release of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan at Christ the King Cathedral. The event coincided with the celebration of the first Episcopal Anniversary and the Sacerdotal Silver Jubilee of Most Rev. Dr. Sahaya Thatheus Thomas, Bishop of Simla-Chandigarh.

The solemn and joyful gathering was graced by the presence of Most Rev. Dr. Gerald John Mathias along with a large number of priests, religious men and women, and lay faithful from different parts of the diocese.

“Do not limit this document to a book on the shelf — actively implement its vision and mission at the parish, deanery, and diocesan levels.”

— Most Rev. Dr. Sahaya Thatheus Thomas, Bishop of Simla-Chandigarh

Addressing the gathering, Bishop Sahaya Thatheus Thomas expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the preparation of the Pastoral Plan. He exhorted the faithful not to limit the document merely to a book on the shelf, but to actively implement its vision and mission at the parish, deanery, and diocesan levels. Emphasizing the importance of a synodal Church, he encouraged all the faithful to journey together in communion, participation, and mission.

The Bishop specially thanked Fr. Joe Xavier SJ and Fr. Charles Leon for their dedicated guidance and support in shaping the Pastoral Plan in a meaningful and effective manner.

On this special occasion, a new Diocesan Pastoral Plan website was also officially launched (www.dppscd.org) to facilitate the monitoring and evaluation of the various activities and initiatives undertaken by different diocesan commissions. Appreciation was extended to Mr. Happy Shergill for designing and developing the platform efficiently and creatively.

In his address, Bishop Gerald John Mathias appreciated the Diocese of Simla-Chandigarh for taking concrete steps towards strengthening the synodal journey of the Church. He encouraged everyone to continue walking together with renewed zeal and commitment in the path of evangelization and pastoral renewal.

The faithful present at the celebration responded positively and enthusiastically, expressing their willingness to carry forward the mission of the Diocese in a truly synodal spirit.