Asansol Diocese Forms New Diocesan Resource Team for BECs

Burdwan, October 24, 2025: The Diocese of Asansol has formed a new Diocesan Resource Team (DRT) for Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs) following a two-day orientation programme held from 23 to 24 October at Chetana, the Diocesan Pastoral Centre in Burdwan. The training brought together around 50 participants from 13 parishes to strengthen Gospel sharing and to prepare new trainers for BEC animation across the diocese.

The sessions, designed to equip animators with practical skills and spiritual insight, resulted in eleven participants volunteering to serve as members of the newly constituted DRT. These members will now conduct BEC training and animation in parishes and village communities throughout the diocese.

Sr. Christin Joseph, HC, a member of the National BEC Service Team, served as the main resource person for the orientation. She guided the participants through the theological meaning and process of Gospel sharing, using role play, PowerPoint presentations, videos, and interactive discussions. “Jesus himself speaks to us lovingly and joyfully in a sacramental way during Gospel sharing,” she explained, encouraging the participants to recognise the sacredness of community reflection on the Word of God.

Sr. Christin also shared case studies from Jharkhand and Sikkim, demonstrating how local communities could create effective action plans based on the “Word of Life.” She expressed her joy at seeing so many lay people and young participants eager to serve, praising their enthusiasm for community mission.

Fr. I. P. Sarto, Diocesan BEC Coordinator, assisted participants in learning how to conduct BEC meetings meaningfully and effectively. “We needed a new team,” he said, noting that many of the earlier DRT members were unable to continue due to family or work commitments, while several priests and sisters active in BEC formation had been transferred to other dioceses.

Bishop Emeritus Cyprian Monis of Asansol presided over the concluding Eucharistic celebration and blessed all the animators, expressing optimism for the future. “It is a great hope for the Church in Asansol,” he said, highlighting the presence of young members among the newly formed team.

The DRT will meet regularly once every two months for ongoing training, focusing on the role of BECs in parish life, servant leadership, animation techniques, and the latest documents of the Universal Church.

By Fr. I. P. Sarto

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