Bengaluru: The National Synodal Assembly of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India commenced in Bengaluru with a solemn Eucharistic celebration, bringing together more than 220 delegates from across the country under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.” The gathering marks a significant step in the Church’s ongoing synodal journey in India, with participation from cardinals, bishops, clergy, religious, and lay faithful.
Presiding over the inaugural Mass, Filipe Neri Ferrão, President of the CCBI, welcomed the assembly and described it as a moment of collective discernment aimed at strengthening the Church’s mission in contemporary society. He emphasized that the synodal process is not merely an event, but a spiritual journey of listening, reflection, and shared responsibility.
Highlighting the significance of the day, Cardinal Ferrão connected the global observance of International Workers' Day with the Church’s celebration of Saint Joseph the Worker. He reflected on the humble life of Joseph, describing him as a model of dignity in labor and a silent yet faithful companion in the life of Jesus. According to the Cardinal, Joseph’s example calls the faithful to recognize work as a sacred vocation and a path to holiness, while journeying together as a community of believers.
In his homily, Cardinal FerrĂŁo placed strong emphasis on the centrality of the Resurrection, describing it as the foundation of Christian faith. Referring to the liturgical season of Easter, he noted that the Church continues to celebrate the victory of the Risen Christ, who entrusted His disciples with the mission to carry forward His message. This missionary mandate, he said, remains alive and relevant in the life of the Church today.
Drawing inspiration from the life of Saint Paul the Apostle, the Cardinal spoke about the transformative power of encountering Christ. Once known as a persecutor of Christians, Paul’s conversion became a powerful witness to God’s grace. Cardinal Ferrão pointed out that such transformation is possible for every believer who opens their heart to Christ and embraces His call.
He reminded the delegates that the responsibility of proclaiming the Gospel extends to all the baptized. The Good News, he stressed, cannot remain confined within church structures but must reach every corner of society. In this context, he encouraged the faithful to actively engage with the world and share the message of hope and salvation.
Addressing the uncertainties and challenges faced by believers today, the Cardinal invoked Christ’s assurance to “not let your hearts be troubled.” He urged participants to place their trust in Jesus, describing Him as the ultimate guide and source of truth. In a world marked by confusion and division, he said, Christ remains the light that directs the path forward.
Reaffirming the importance of synodality, Cardinal Ferrão highlighted the need for the Church to walk together in unity. He described the assembly as a space for collective listening and discernment, where participants can reflect on how best to communicate the Gospel in a rapidly changing world. The synodal approach, he noted, strengthens the Church’s mission by fostering collaboration and shared vision.
To illustrate the call for personal openness, the Cardinal shared a symbolic story of an artist who painted Christ standing at a door without an external handle. The message, he explained, is that the door can only be opened from within. In the same way, individuals must willingly invite Christ into their lives, allowing Him to transform their hearts and guide their mission.
Concluding his homily, Cardinal FerrĂŁo called on the delegates to become courageous witnesses of the Gospel. He encouraged them to proclaim their faith with conviction and joy, regardless of circumstances, and to carry forward the spirit of the synodal journey in their respective communities.
The Eucharistic celebration was concelebrated by prominent Church leaders including Peter Machado, Vincent Aind, Linus Neli, John Barwa, and Stephen Alathara, along with several bishops and priests from across India.
The assembly will continue over the coming days with sessions of prayer, dialogue, and reflection, as the Church in India seeks to deepen its commitment to a synodal way of life and mission.