Five-Day Retreat for Catechists: Renewed in Faith and Mission
The Commission for Proclamation of the Simla-Chandigarh Diocese organised a five-day retreat for Catechists and Religious Sisters engaged in catechetical ministry from 5 to 9 October 2026. A total of 30 participants attended this time of spiritual renewal, faith formation, learning, and fellowship.
The retreat was led by Rev. Fr. Maria Silva Das, Vicar General of the Diocese, under the guidance of Fr. Vilfred Masih, Secretary of the Commission for Proclamation. His dedicated team ensured the participants’ comfort and hospitality throughout the programme.
Through classes, interactive sessions, and group discussions, Fr. Maria Silva Das emphasised that every catechist must be a role model in the parish through faith, prayer, love, service, and dedication, proclaiming the Gospel through both words and personal witness.
A special highlight was the use of Punjabi biblical boliyan and local cultural expressions during group activities, demonstrating creative and culturally meaningful ways of sharing the Gospel through local languages, traditions, and customs.
Evening Eucharistic Adoration, healing prayers, and special spiritual programmes deepened the participants’ faith, strengthened their relationship with God, and renewed their missionary zeal. Known for his enduring missionary spirit, Fr. Maria Silva Das inspired them to serve their parishes with greater creativity and commitment.
The participants expressed heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Maria Silva Das for his inspiring guidance, Fr. Vilfred Masih for organising the retreat, and the entire team for their dedicated service and hospitality.
On the final day, Most Rev. Dr. Sahaya Thatheus Thomas, Bishop of Simla-Chandigarh, celebrated the Thanksgiving Holy Eucharist. He described catechists as serving on the four frontiers of evangelization and as the right hand of the parish priest. He encouraged them in their mission, prayed for God’s special blessings upon them, and reminded them that the Eucharist, the source and summit of Christian life, must remain the foundation and strength of their ministry.
The retreat concluded on 9 October, with the participants returning to their respective parishes spiritually renewed, joyful, and eager to proclaim the Good News. It was truly a grace-filled experience of faith, fellowship, and missionary renewal, equipping them to become more effective witnesses of Christ in the Diocese.
Fr. Vilfred Masih
Secretary, Commission for Proclamation
