Catholics in India will get unique identification numbers, akin to Aadhaar cards, according to Fr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI).
The federal government of India offers the Aadhaar card, a 12-digit unique identity number based on people's biometrics.
Fr. Alathara announced a significant development: Catholics in India will receive unique identification numbers, similar to Aadhaar Cards.
He shared this news while inaugurating a diocesan administration course for Vicar Generals and Chancellors at Shanti Sadan in Benaulim, Goa, western India, on January 23, 2024.
The initiative, facilitated through the Catholic Connect App, aims to generate distinctive identification numbers for Catholics in India. These unique IDs will serve a dual purpose, enabling individuals to access various services within the Catholic Church and fostering connectivity and collaboration with different parishes and dioceses.
The unique ID is optional, but those who wish to enroll could find it immensely helpful. This system aims to provide support for migrant workers and students, allowing them to connect with the church for assistance, particularly in emergencies.
This innovative approach not only signifies a technological leap for the Catholic Church but also enhances the efficiency of administrative processes within the Church, fostering a more connected and accessible network for its members.
The Catholic Connect App will officially launch on January 30, 2024, in Bangalore by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão.
The CCBI organized at Shanti Sadan a diocesan administration training for officials of the diocesan curia, aiming to enhance the quality of ecclesial administration and equip them for effective diocesan management with a mission-oriented approach. There were 22 participants from 17 dioceses who attended the course, which started on January 23 and will end on January 27.
The training sessions featured distinguished resource persons, including Justice Filomeno Manuel Reis, Fr. Roland Coelho, S.J., Mr. Sunil Gonsalves, CA, Fr. Alathara, Dr. Jose Remedios Fernandes, Dr. Aleixo Menezes, Dr. Romeo Monteiro, Dr. Rosario Oliveira, Dr. Nelson Siqueira, Fr. Barry Cardozo, and Fr. Duming Gonsalves.
In addition to the training, the participants embarked on a pilgrimage to various significant locations, including Sé Cathedral and the Church of the Cross of Miracles in Old Goa, the St. Joseph Vaz Centre in Old Goa, the Tomb of Agnel in Pilar, St. Joseph Vaz Church in Sancoale, and St. John Baptist Church in Benaulim, and concluded with a Holy Mass celebration at Bom Jesus Basilica in Old Goa.
Shanti Sadan in Goa offers specialized courses, such as the Financial Management Course for financial administrators at the diocesan and provincial levels and the Diocesan Administration Course for Vicar Generals and Chancellors.
These courses cater to the specific needs of individuals involved in the administrative and financial aspects of the Catholic Church. For inquiries, please contact shantisadangoa@gmail.com or office@shantisadan.in, or call 9309110391.
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