RENEWED IN CHRIST, UNITED IN COMMUNION, SENT FORTH TO EVANGELIZE
The Annual Diocesan Clergy Retreat of the Diocese of Simla–Chandigarh was held from October 18 to 23, 2026, at Vianney Home, Amloh, under the spiritual guidance of Rev. Dr. Fr. Vijay Joseph, Director of the Paraclete Ministry, Archdiocese of Hyderabad. A total of 64 diocesan priests participated in this grace-filled time of prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal.
Under the pastoral leadership of Most Rev. Dr. Sahaya Thatheus Thomas, Bishop of Simla–Chandigarh, and Bishop Emeritus Ignatius L. Mascarenhas, the retreat sought to deepen priestly communion with Christ, strengthen fraternity within the presbyterium, and rekindle missionary zeal.
Inspired by the life and spirituality of St. John Mary Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests, the reflections focused on his Eucharistic devotion, commitment to prayer, pastoral charity, spirit of sacrifice, zeal for the salvation of souls, and ministry of reconciliation.
The priests were also encouraged to embrace their ministry of healing, liberation, and reconciliation, becoming compassionate instruments of God's mercy through the celebration of the Sacraments, the proclamation of the Word, and pastoral accompaniment.
The Diocese expresses its sincere gratitude to Rev. Dr. Fr. Vijay Joseph for his spiritual guidance and inspiring ministry. Appreciation is also extended to Fr. Jeyhar, Director of Vianney Home; Rev. Fr. Dominic Bosco, Parish Priest of St. Xavier's Church, Amloh; and the entire support staff for their generous service and warm hospitality.
The retreat concluded with a renewed commitment to priestly holiness, unity, and evangelization. Strengthened by the grace of the Holy Spirit, the priests reaffirmed their resolve to walk together in communion with their Bishop, faithfully serving God's people and advancing the evangelizing mission of the Diocese.
The retreat also concluded with the celebration of the Feast of St. Jude Thaddeus, the heavenly patron saint, offering a fitting occasion to entrust the priests and their sacred ministry to his powerful intercession.
Inspired by the Blessed Virgin Mary's fiat and the example of St. John Mary Vianney, may our priests continue to be joyful witnesses of Christ and dedicated ministers of the Gospel.
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and the intercession of St. John Mary Vianney and St. Jude Thaddeus sustain them in their sacred ministry.
To God be the glory, now and forever.
Rev. Fr. Maria Salvadas
Vicar General, Commission for Clergy
