The CCBI Plenary Assembly Embraces a Synodal Approach for Mission
The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) is gearing up for its upcoming Plenary Assembly with an innovative and participatory approach that emphasizes inclusivity within the Church. Set to take place in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from January 28 to February 4, 2025, the assembly will revolve around the theme “Discerning the Synodal Pathways for Mission.”
In preparation for this significant event, the CCBI General Secretariat has distributed a preparatory document and questionnaire to dioceses and religious congregations across India. This initiative aims to gather input from a diverse range of voices within the Church to ensure a collective discernment process during the assembly.
All responses are due by October 31, 2024, and will play a crucial role in shaping the working document for the assembly’s deliberations. To encourage broader participation, the CCBI has also launched an online survey inviting the lay faithful to share their insights and recommendations.
This marks the first time that the CCBI has initiated such an extensive consultation, underscoring the significance of shared responsibility in the Church’s mission and promoting a more inclusive decision-making process. A core team, led by Bishop Allwyn D’Silva, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of Bombay, has been tasked with compiling and analyzing the feedback received.
Additionally, the assembly will introduce a “spiritual conversation methodology” to facilitate deeper dialogue and engagement among participants, encouraging open and meaningful exchanges. With 132 dioceses and 208 bishops, the CCBI stands as the largest episcopal conference in Asia and ranks fourth globally.
