Basilica Rectors Association Formed in India to Strengthen Synodal Mission

Benaulim, Goa | 25 April 2025: In a landmark move to enhance the synodal spirit within the Church in India, the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) has officially launched the Basilica Rectors Association. The newly formed body brings together rectors of Basilicas across the country to promote unity, share pastoral practices, and ensure Basilicas remain welcoming spaces for pilgrims.

The Association was inaugurated during the first national gathering of basilica rectors, held from April 23 to 25 at Shanti Sadan, the CCBI Secretariat Extension in Benaulim, Goa.

Fr. S. Pitchaimuthu, Rector of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Pondicherry, was elected President of the Association. Fr. John, S.D.B., Rector of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary in Bandel, Kolkata, was chosen as Secretary.

Fr. George K.A., Rector of the Basilica of Our Lady of Health in Harihar (Diocese of Shimoga), and Fr. Michael Valayinchiyil, Rector of the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Munnar (Diocese of Vijayapuram) were elected as the Executive Committee members. Fr. Christopher Vimalraj, Associate Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI, serves as an ex-officio member.

“There are 29 basilicas under the CCBI. This association is a vital step in our synodal journey. It will help us build strong bonds, share insights, and make each basilica a place of deep spiritual encounter,” said Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI. He also announced that the rectors would meet annually to continue this mission.

The three-day meeting was centered on spiritual reflection and discernment. Sessions were led by Jesuit priest Rev. Dr. Joe Xavier, who guided the rectors in listening to the Holy Spirit and drafting a plan to enrich their pastoral work.

“It was a joyful moment to come together, share our concerns, and strengthen our mission to serve the thousands of pilgrims who visit our basilicas every year,” said Fr. Praful Tigga, Rector of the Basilica of the Divine Motherhood of Our Lady in Ranchi in Jharkhand.

Fr. Vincent Chinnadurai, Rector of San Thome Basilica in Chennai, welcomed the initiative. “This is a beautiful expression of synodality. Regular meetings will help us walk together and serve better as guardians of these sacred spaces,” he said.

The Association’s next meeting is scheduled to take place in Pondicherry from July 7 to 9, 2026.

With the creation of the Basilica Rectors Association, the Church in India takes another step forward in its synodal mission—deepening communion, participation, and service in the life of the faithful.

By Gangula Vignan Das