Simla Deanery Moves Forward in Synodal Mission: Implementation Strategy Meeting Strengthens Pastoral Coordination, Evangelization and Community Participation

Simla Deanery Moves Forward in Synodal Mission: Implementation Strategy Meeting Strengthens Pastoral Coordination, Evangelization and Community Participation

The Simla Deanery Implementation Strategy Meeting was held on September 12, 2026, bringing together around 55 participants comprising clergy, religious and pastoral representatives for a day of prayer, reflection, formation and collaborative planning.

The meeting focused on strengthening the implementation of the diocesan pastoral vision and fostering a more participatory and missionary Church in the spirit of synodality.

The programme commenced with a Hymn to the Holy Spirit, invoking the guidance and inspiration of the Spirit for the day’s deliberations. This was followed by the lighting of the lamp, symbolizing Christ, the Light who guides the Church and her mission.

The lamp was lit by Fr. Maria Selvadas, Vicar General, Fr. Ambrose D' Souza, the Dean, Fr. Vianney, coordinator of commissions, and religious and lay representatives, highlighting the shared responsibility of clergy and laity in the life and mission of the Church.

The participants then listened to the Gospel reading from Matthew 28:18–20, which presents Christ’s missionary mandate: “Go and make disciples of all nations.”

The Gospel reading was followed by a prayerful reflection and a Pastoral Commitment Prayer, inviting everyone to renew their commitment to the mission entrusted to the Church.

At the very outset, Fr. John Vianney emphasized the importance of translating the pastoral vision into concrete action. He encouraged the participants to approach their ministry with renewed missionary zeal, pastoral responsibility and a spirit of collaboration.

A significant part of the meeting was the session on “We, the Synodal Church,” led by Fr. John Vianney, Coordinator of Commissions. The session highlighted synodality as a way of being Church - one that listens, accompanies, participates and journeys together. It encouraged the deanery to strengthen collaboration among parishes, pastoral commissions, clergy, religious and lay faithful.

This was followed by a reflection by Rev. Fr. Maria Selvadas, Vicar General, on “The Church Exists to Evangelize.” He presented St. Devasahayam, the patron saint for Laity in India, as an inspiring role model for our missionary journey.

His life of courageous faith, steadfast commitment to Christ and willingness to witness to the Gospel even in the face of suffering and persecution were highlighted as a powerful example for Christians today.

The reflection encouraged the participants to embrace their missionary vocation with courage, conviction and perseverance, becoming faithful witnesses of Christ in their own contexts.

The practical dimension of the meeting was addressed through the session on “Implementation: Monitoring, Reporting and Evaluating,” led by Mr. Happy Shergill. The participants reflected on the importance of systematic follow-up, proper documentation, evaluation and accountability so that pastoral initiatives may bear lasting fruit.

The meeting then moved into group formation and discussions, facilitated by Fr. John Vianney, with participants organized into four groups. The group sessions provided an opportunity to share experiences, identify pastoral priorities and explore practical ways of implementing the diocesan pastoral vision at the grassroots level.

The gathering concluded with a spirit of gratitude, renewed commitment and fraternal fellowship.

The Simla Deanery Implementation Strategy Meeting thus became more than a planning exercise; it was a shared journey of faith, mission and responsibility, inspiring the participants to move from vision to action and to build a Church that listens, participates and evangelizes.

The meeting concluded with the inspiring commitment:
“Walking Together, Evangelizing Together, Building Together.”

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