The rectors of the 29 basilicas across India convened at Shanti Sadan, the CCBI Secretariat Extension in Benaulim, Goa, for a three-day national meeting aimed at renewing and strengthening their pastoral ministry.
The gathering was inaugurated by Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), President of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC), and Archbishop of Goa and Daman, on April 23, 2025.
Cardinal Ferrão, addressing the assembly, highlighted the vital role basilica rectors play in the Church’s mission.
“It is our duty to welcome pilgrims with compassion and care and to offer them a divine experience of grace and healing,” he said.
The meeting, held from April 23 to 25, 2025, features sessions led by Jesuit Fr. Dr. Joe Xavier, Fr. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Fr. Dr. Christopher Vimalraj, Fr. Gangula Vignan Das, and Fr. Duming Gonsalves.
The gathering began with a solemn Holy Mass celebrated by Cardinal Ferrão. Special prayers were offered for the soul of Pope Francis, who died on April 21.
In his homily, the cardinal urged participants to continue the synodal reforms initiated by the late pontiff.
The event is the first time the CCBI has convened such a national meeting for basilica rectors, creating a platform for collaboration, mutual support, and the sharing of pastoral best practices.
During the meeting, participants will also undertake pilgrimages to some of Goa’s most significant sacred sites, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, the Se Cathedral in Old Goa, the Shrine of St. Joseph Vaz in Sancoale, and the tomb of Venerable Agnel at Pilar.
The meeting will conclude on April 25, 2025, with a renewed vision for enhancing the ministry of India’s basilicas in the spirit of synodality and mission. - Stephen Alathara
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