Goa:  Church leaders in India have urged dioceses across the country to move away from routine maintenance work and embrace a stronger mission oriented approach that focuses on people and pastoral outreach.

The call was made by Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India, while inaugurating a three day regional capacity building programme in Goa. The event brought together Regional Deputy Secretaries from different parts of India for training on pastoral leadership and community transformation.

Fr Alathara said the Church must not restrict itself to managing structures and activities but must reach out with renewed zeal to share the message of Christ. He explained that the Church in India is invited to rediscover its missionary identity and actively engage with people in need. He noted that this direction is part of the national pastoral plan launched in 2024 to help dioceses strengthen their mission focus.

The programme includes workshops, group discussions and practical sessions led by experienced resource persons. Topics cover pastoral leadership, community engagement and creating effective mission centred strategies for dioceses. Trainers at the event include Fr Joe Xavier, Fr Christopher Vimalraj, Fr Duming Gonsalves and Vincent D Silva.

Participants said the training has encouraged them to rethink their roles. Fr Peter Charles from Bihar said the sessions helped him see how mission work can be strengthened in his region. Another participant, Fr Francis from Tamil Nadu, said the programme challenges leaders to look beyond routine tasks and serve people with a deeper sense of purpose.

The three day event will conclude on November 14 with a commitment session. Delegates will present action plans aimed at helping their dioceses adopt a more dynamic and mission driven ministry in the coming months.