Simla-Chandigarh Diocese Strengthens Commitment to BEC Through Clergy Workshop
CHANDIGARH, July 9, 2026: Reaffirming its commitment to building vibrant, participatory parish communities, the Diocese of Simla-Chandigarh organised a one-day workshop on Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs) at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Chandigarh, on July 8, bringing together clergy, religious and lay leaders for formation and pastoral renewal.
The workshop was attended by two bishops, 76 priests, 10 women religious, six catechists and 12 lay representatives, reflecting the diocese's collaborative approach to strengthening the BEC ministry.
The programme began with the solemn enthronement of the Holy Bible, underscoring the centrality of the Word of God in the life and mission of Basic Ecclesial Communities.
In his inaugural address, Bishop Sahaya Thatheus Thomas called on the clergy and pastoral leaders to renew their commitment to the BEC movement, describing it as an effective means of evangelisation and pastoral renewal. He encouraged every parish in the diocese to strengthen Basic Ecclesial Communities as centres of faith formation, communion and missionary outreach.
The formation sessions were led by Fr. George Jacob, Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Basic Ecclesial Communities, assisted by Mr. Emmanuel Johnson, National Council Member, and Fr. Suresh Babu, Regional Secretary.
The resource persons presented the biblical foundations, spirituality and pastoral vision of Basic Ecclesial Communities, highlighting their role in fostering active participation of the faithful, deepening communion within the Church and promoting mission at the grassroots. They emphasised that BECs enable parish communities to become more prayerful, inclusive and responsive to the pastoral needs of families and neighbourhoods.
Participants engaged in discussions on practical ways to strengthen BECs across the diocese, renewing their commitment to building communities centred on the Word of God, mutual care and shared responsibility for the Church's mission.
The workshop concluded with the closing of the Holy Bible and a prayer of thanksgiving, commissioning the participants to return to their parishes with renewed enthusiasm for promoting Basic Ecclesial Communities as a vital expression of the Church's synodal and evangelising mission.
By Fr. George Jacob, SAC
Courtesy: Catholic Connect