Indian Bishops examine 35 Council Notebooks as part of the preparation for Jubilee 2025

The 36th General Body Meeting of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) marked a momentous occasion when Indian bishops (of the Latin Church, Syro-Malabar Church, and Syro-Malankara Church) examined 35 Council Notebooks published by the Dicastery for Evangelization: Section for Fundamental Questions regarding Evangelization in the World in preparation for the Ordinary Jubilee 2025, which marks a significant milestone in the history of Catholics in India. 

Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, of Thrissur Eparchy and the President of the Catholic Bishop's Conference of India (CBCI), said, “The 35 Council Notebooks represent a journey of faith, reflection, and adaptation. They offer summary, background, and contextual reflections on the Second Vatican Council and the Four Constitutions. As we read these books and reflect, we also look forward to Jubilee 2025 with renewed hope and determination."

Father Yesu Karunanidhi, the National Coordinator for the Ordinary Jubilee 2025, set the context for the study of the Council Notebooks and presented the highlights of the 35 Council Notebooks.

He remarked, “The Council Notebooks are a treasure house of the Church’s reflections over the years. They showcase the depth of our engagement with the world and our commitment to living out the Gospel in diverse contexts. As we prepare for the Ordinary Jubilee 2025, the insights from these Notebooks will guide our collective discernment and inspire renewed efforts towards the Church’s mission." 

“The Ordinary Jubilee 2025 holds special significance as it calls the Catholic Church to a period of reflection, celebration, and renewal. The Council Notebooks will play a pivotal role in shaping the discussions and initiatives during this Jubilee year, providing a foundation for the Church's continued journey in India,” endorsed Archbishop George Antonysamy, of Madras-Mylapore and Vice President of the CBCI.

During Jubilee 2025, the Catholic Church in India will celebrate, reflect upon, and renew itself in a momentous event on its ecclesiastical calendar. The Council Notebooks will play an integral part in guiding the church's future initiatives and discussions during Jubilee 2025.

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), an apex body of the Catholic Church in India, represents the interests and concerns of the Catholic Bishops in the country and dedicates itself to serving the nation as well as humanity. By coordinating the Catholic Church's activities and fostering unity among its members, CBCI plays a crucial role. 

The 36th General Body, gathered from January 31 to February 7, 2024, at St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences, Bengaluru, reflects on “the Church’s response to the present socio-political realities of the country and artificial intelligence.” During the occasion, participants engage in prayer, deliberate on current challenges, and collectively commit to advancing the mission of the Church in the diverse and dynamic context of India.

The National Facilitating Team of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) prepared the highlights of the 35 Council Notebooks, powered by Communio. The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India, along with ATC Publishers, has published the English translation of the original in Italian. - Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi