XVII National Catechetical Conference Concludes with Renewed Commitment to Vocational Accompaniment
The Commission for Faith Formation of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) successfully concluded the XVII National Catechetical Conference, held from 27 to 29 October 2026 at Bishop's House, Jalandhar, under the theme ”Catechesis for Vocational Accompaniment (The Sacraments of Matrimony and Holy Orders, and the Vocations to Religious Life and Single Life)”
The conference was graced by Most Rev. Dr. George Palliparambil, SDB, Chairman, CCBI, Faith Formation, Most Rev. Dr. Jose Sebastian T., Bishop of Jalandhar, Most Rev. Dr. Anand Jojo, Bishop of Hazaribagh, Member, CCBI, Faith Formation, Most Rev. Dr. Deepak Tauro, Northern Regional Chairman, Faith Formation, and Most Rev. Dr. Benny Varghese, Chairman, Northeast Regional Faith Formation and Rev. Fr. Duming Gonsalves, Administrator, Shanti Sadan, Goa. Their presence and pastoral guidance enriched the deliberations and strengthened the Church’s commitment to nurturing vocations.
The three-day gathering focused on accompanying children and young people in discerning their vocation to priesthood, consecrated life, sacramental marriage and dedicated single life. The sessions explored the theology of the sacraments, effective vocation camps, discernment methodologies for youth and the National Catechetical Directory.
Regional discussions, group workshops and the presentation of the 2026 Action Plan highlighted practical initiatives to strengthen catechetical ministry at the parish, diocesan, regional and national levels.
The conference reaffirmed that catechesis must go beyond the transmission of religious knowledge to become a journey of faith that leads young people to encounter Christ, discern God’s call and respond generously to His mission.
The gathering concluded with a renewed commitment to fostering a culture of vocation through prayer, faith formation and personal accompaniment, empowering every young person to discover and embrace their unique calling in the Church and society.
The participants fondly remembered and expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Rev. Fr. Vijay Machado, Executive Secretary, Faith Formation, CCBI, for his invaluable support, constant encouragement, and generous collaboration in his absence.
Mr. Happy Shergill
Coordinator, Faith Formation
