India: Archdiocese of Imphal holds Basic Ecclesial Community orientation for Tangkhul Catholic Leaders

The Archdiocese of Imphal organized a one-day Basic Ecclesial Community (BEC) orientation for catechists and church leaders of the Tangkhul Catholic community at St. Anthony Parish, Muirei, on September 26.

The event aimed to strengthen the Church's mission at the grassroots level through the BEC model.

Led by Father Paul Ngaolouni, Director of BEC for the Archdiocese of Imphal, the program gathered 55 participants from the St. Anthony Parish in Manipur’s Ukhrul District.

In collaboration with the parish, Father Ngaolouni emphasized the importance of catechists and church leaders in nurturing vibrant local communities.

Dominic Lumon, Emeritus Archbishop of Imphal, delivered a keynote address on the topic of BEC as a pastoral priority, stating, "BEC is not merely an association or prayer group; it is a way to make the Church truly synodal and evangelizing at the local level across the country."

He highlighted that BECs, grounded in the Word of God and the Eucharist, are the foundation of the Church and promote a "communion of communities" in unity with the universal Church.

The archbishop further emphasized the role of BECs in witnessing to the Gospel, saying, "BECs help us encounter Christ personally and foster a sense of belonging in the Church. As we move into the third millennium, it is crucial that we experience the Church as a communion of communities."

Father Ngaolouni reiterated the essential role of catechists in shaping the faith of local communities, noting, "Catechists are at the forefront of catechesis. What you teach is what the people of God come to know."

He underscored their responsibility to impart both faith and morals accurately, adding, "You are vital in ensuring the faithful receive the correct teachings of the Church."