Old Goa: The inaugural National Communio Directors Joint Reflection Programme began today at the Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre in Old Goa, bringing together Communio Directors from dioceses across India to share experiences, strengthen collaboration, and enhance missionary efforts.
The opening Mass was celebrated by Cardinal Filipe Neri FerrĂŁo, President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), alongside Fr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of CCBI; Fr. Vignan Das, Associate Director of Communio; Fr. Henry, Director of the Joseph Vaz Renewal Centre; and Fr. Candido, Communio Director of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman.
In his homily, Cardinal Ferrão described Communio Directors as “sowers of hope,” highlighting their vital role in supporting rural dioceses and promoting a spirit of unity and missionary zeal. He outlined the programme’s goals, which include fostering collaboration among diocesan teams, enhancing visibility, promoting participation, and equipping lay missionaries for effective service.
The programme will feature sessions by Fr. Joe Xavier SJ on spiritual conversation, along with workshops on collaboration, resource sharing, and strengthening lay missionary involvement. Cardinal FerrĂŁo also presented participants with a Communio pen drive and a rosary as a gesture of gratitude.
Organizers said the initiative represents a historic step in uniting Communio Directors across India, reinforcing networks of prayer, solidarity, and missionary outreach, and deepening communion among diocesan teams nationwide.