KCBC Annual Summer Meeting Concludes with Strategic Discussions

Kochi, June 6, 2024: The Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) concluded its annual summer meeting at the POC in Palarivattom, held from June 4 to 6. The event was inaugurated by KCBC President His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and featured the joint session of major superiors of religious communities and the KCBC. Bishop Dr. Pauly Kannookadan, Bishop of Irinjalakuda (Syro-Malabar Church), Chairman of the Religious Commission, presided over the opening session.

Inauguration and Initial Sessions

The meeting began with a solemn inauguration at 10 AM on June 4. Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Catholicos opened the session, emphasizing the importance of unity and strategic planning for the Church’s future. Bishop Dr. Pauly Kannookadan highlighted the role of religious communities in supporting and nurturing the Church’s mission.

Rev. Dr. Augustine Stephen OCD led an insightful session on “How Dedicated Individuals Can Encourage Youth in the Church,” offering practical advice and strategies to engage young people in spiritual and community activities.

Key Discussions and Outcomes

Over the three days, the KCBC delved into several critical issues, including:

• Renewal of the Kerala Church: Strategies to invigorate spiritual and community life within the Church were discussed, focusing on innovative approaches to pastoral care and evangelization.
• Clergy Training: Emphasis was placed on enhancing the formation and education of clergy to better equip them for their roles in an evolving societal context.
• Jubilee Year 2025 Celebrations: Plans for celebrating the Jubilee Year, as announced by the Pope, were laid out, highlighting the spiritual and communal activities to mark this significant milestone.
• Church and Social Engagement: The council discussed the Church’s role in addressing social issues, advocating for justice, and fostering community welfare.

Participation and Contributions

The meeting saw the participation of bishops from all Catholic dioceses in Kerala, with the Deputy Secretary General, Fr. Jacob Palackappilly, confirming their attendance. The collective contributions and discussions aimed at fostering a unified and strategic approach to the challenges and opportunities facing the Church today.

Future Directions

The KCBC’s annual summer meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to the Church’s mission and a strategic roadmap for the future. The discussions underscored the importance of unity, proactive engagement, and continuous renewal to address contemporary issues effectively.

As the Church moves forward, the outcomes of this meeting will play a crucial role in shaping its approach to pastoral care, social engagement, and community development. The KCBC remains dedicated to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and spiritually enriched community, guided by the principles discussed and agreed upon during this significant gathering.