Patna: The Bihar Regional Bishops’ Council (BRBC) has taken a transformative step by formally adopting the CCBI Pastoral Plan Mission 2033 during its annual joint meeting held on November 27, 2024, at Navjyoti Niketan, Patna. The initiative, developed by the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), outlines a visionary roadmap to invigorate the Church’s mission over the next decade, with a special focus on synodality, youth involvement, and grassroots evangelization.
The plan was unveiled by His Excellency Most Rev. Cajetan Francis Osta, Bishop of Muzaffarpur and Chairman of the BRBC. Speaking on the occasion, Bishop Osta emphasized the significance of aligning the plan with Bihar’s unique socio-economic landscape. “In the light of the CCBI Pastoral Plan Mission 2033, we identify our paths for the region of Bihar and its dioceses,” he said, underscoring the importance of the initiative in addressing regional challenges.
Key Themes Highlighted
Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi from the CCBI presented an insightful overview of the plan, emphasizing its central themes such as synodality, preparations for the Jubilee Year 2025, and long-term strategies for Church renewal. The presentation encouraged collaboration and collective discernment, which many participants found to be an essential aspect of the plan. A senior religious leader remarked, “The emphasis on synodality resonates deeply with our diocesan needs. The plan encourages collective discernment, which is crucial for fostering unity and inclusion.”
A central element of the plan is its focus on empowering the laity, particularly youth, in evangelization and community service. A diocesan youth coordinator at the meeting noted, “This plan highlights the role of the laity, especially the youth, in the Church’s mission. It’s a timely move to engage them actively.”
Challenges in Implementation
While the plan was widely praised, some participants raised concerns about its practicality. A diocesan administrator highlighted the need for a more tailored approach, stating, “The unique socio-economic realities of Bihar require a more region-specific strategy.” Additionally, a financial officer pointed to challenges in implementation due to limited resources and personnel in the region.
A rural parish priest added a note of caution, warning, “There is a risk of the Pastoral Plan becoming overly bureaucratic, potentially diverting our focus from the grassroots-level needs of the faithful.”
Collective Commitment
The meeting was convened by His Excellency Most Rev. James Shekhar, Bishop of Buxar and Secretary General of the BRBC, along with Rev. Fr. Peter Charles, Regional Deputy Secretary. It saw active participation from 120 attendees, including bishops, priests, superiors of religious congregations, lay faithful, and youth.
The adoption of the CCBI Pastoral Plan Mission 2033 marks a pivotal moment for the BRBC, reinforcing its commitment to fostering synodal collaboration and deeper connections with the faithful across Bihar. As preparations for the Jubilee Year 2025 advance, the Church in Bihar stands united in its mission to build a vibrant, inclusive, and spiritually enriched community.
Tags: Bihar Bishops, CCBI Pastoral Plan, Mission 2033, Church Renewal, Synodality, Evangelization, Jubilee 2025, Youth Engagement, Catholic Church in Bihar, Grassroots Evangelization
