Old Goa: The Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre in Old Goa hosted the First National Communio Directors Joint Reflection Programme, bringing together diocesan leaders from across India to share experiences, exchange best practices, and strengthen the mission of the Church at the grassroots level. The programme featured Auxiliary Bishop Simiao Purificação Fernandes of Goa and Daman, who drew upon his extensive experience as a former Communio Director to guide participants in fostering communion, supporting young missionaries, and expanding the reach of the Church’s outreach initiatives.
Bishop Simião addressed the gathering with an emphasis on practical missionary engagement. He highlighted that Communio is not merely a programme but a living testament to the Church’s mission, calling for active collaboration, prayer, and lay participation. He urged directors to encourage communities to embrace prayer for mission, cultivate generosity among the faithful, and create supportive networks for emerging missionaries. “By fostering collaboration, prayer, and missionary engagement at the diocesan level, we empower our faithful to serve with love and dedication,” he said.
During his session, Bishop Simião shared several successful initiatives from his tenure as Communio Director. He described organising mission awareness programmes in parishes and schools as a way to engage communities and nurture a missionary spirit from a young age. He also highlighted the significance of Communio Sunday celebrations, which encourage active participation and reflection on the Church’s mission. Furthermore, he spoke about establishing mission resource-sharing platforms among dioceses, enabling teams to collaborate effectively and exchange knowledge and strategies. Emphasising local engagement, Bishop Simião encouraged partnerships between diocesan teams and local communities to enhance outreach programmes and foster solidarity.
The bishop also celebrated the Holy Eucharist, during which he reflected on the biblical theme of light and its connection to the work of Communio Directors. He encouraged all participants to become bearers of light in their dioceses, shining with faith, compassion, and commitment to the mission of the Church. The Eucharistic celebration served as both a spiritual anchor and an inspiration, reinforcing the idea that their ministry is not only administrative but also a profound witness to Christ’s love and service.
Bishop Simião concluded by motivating the Communio Directors to implement these best practices in their respective dioceses. He underlined that their leadership is crucial for nurturing communion, supporting young missionaries, and ensuring the Church’s mission reaches every corner of India. Participants left the programme with renewed enthusiasm, practical insights, and a deeper understanding of their role in building bridges of mission and solidarity.
The programme also served as a platform for diocesan teams to strengthen professional networks, exchange ideas, and reaffirm their commitment to a mission-driven Church where collaboration, prayer, and service form the foundation for sustainable missionary outreach.