‘Prioritize the poor, the vulnerable’: Pope Francis to Indian bishops

Pope Francis has called on the Indian bishops to prioritize the poor and the vulnerable in their ministry.

This was the message conveyed in his address to the 36th Plenary Assembly of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI). The assembly is being held at XIM University in the Archdiocese of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar, in the eastern Indian state of Odisha.

In a message read out by Archbishop George Antonysamy, the Vice President of the CCBI, the Pope expressed his prayerful support for the bishops' deliberations.

The pope encouraged them to guide the local churches in implementing the fruits of the synodal journey.

“I pray that your deliberations may assist the local churches to discern how best to implement the fruits of the synodal path and inspire many more of the faithful in their vocation to be missionary disciples,” Francis said.

Referring to the Jubilee Year, the pope expressed confidence in the Church in India, emphasizing its role as a beacon of hope.

“He trusts that, in this Jubilee Year, the Church in India will continue to be a sign of hope to the entire nation, always seeking to open wide its doors to welcome the poor and most vulnerable, so that all may have the hope of a better future,” the Holy Father added.

The assembly was inaugurated by Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, who also presided over the solemn Eucharistic celebration marking the event’s commencement.

Divine Word Archbishop John Barwa of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar welcomed the bishops and dignitaries to Odisha, describing it as the land of vibrant tribal cultures.

In his presidential address, Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, the President of the CCBI and Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences, highlighted the growing challenges to Christian living and religious freedom in India.

“India faces significant challenges in Christian living and religious freedom,” said Cardinal Ferrão.

He noted the enactment of anti-conversion laws in 18 states and the increasing number of reported incidents of violence against Christians.

He called for solidarity, prayer, and concerted action to uphold the dignity and freedom of the Church.

“Despite the adversities, the Church in India remains vibrant and steadfast,” he affirmed. 

Archbishop Anil Couto, Secretary General of the CCBI, presented the annual report, while Jesuit Father Dr. Antony Uvari, Vice Chancellor of XIM University, delivered the felicitation message. Father Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI, proposed the vote of thanks. 

The assembly also welcomed the newly appointed bishops and observed a moment of prayerful silence for the departed members of the Conference. 

With the theme “Discerning Synodal Pathways for Mission,” the assembly has drawn 204 bishops of the Latin Church in India to reflect on the Church’s mission.

The first three days of the event are dedicated to spiritual conversations, offering a retreat-like atmosphere for reflection on the ten priorities outlined in the Working Document.

Bishops will also review biennial reports from 16 Commissions, six Departments, four Apostolates, and 14 Regional Bishops Councils, providing a comprehensive overview of the CCBI's work. The assembly will elect new office bearers for the Episcopal Conference.

The CCBI, the largest National Episcopal Conference in Asia and the fourth largest globally, represents 132 dioceses and 209 bishops.

This Plenary Assembly is poised to be a landmark event, fostering collaboration and renewal as the Church discerns its future path in mission and synodality. – with CCBI input