BEC Animators in North Bengal Resolve to Strengthen Parish Ministries

Jalpaiguri, November 19, 2025: Basic Ecclesial Community (BEC) animators from the dioceses of Jalpaiguri and Bagdogra committed to coordinating parish ministries following a three-day formation programme held from 14 to 16 November at the Artico Pastoral Centre, Jalpaiguri. The training gathered 41 Diocesan Resource Team (DRT) members who jointly resolved to organise BEC units around key pastoral and social ministries aimed at strengthening parish life.

Bishop Emeritus Clement Tirkey of Jalpaiguri presided over the inaugural Eucharist, urging animators to remain patient and steadfast. He reminded them that authentic growth in BECs, much like in the Tea Gardens of the region, “takes time”, encouraging them to deepen their own faith while helping others grow in theirs.

Bishop Fabian Toppo of Jalpaiguri addressed the animators during one of the sessions, calling them to be “ideal Catholics” with sound biblical knowledge and urging them to take up active roles across parish ministries. He thanked the DRT members and facilitators for their dedication to empowering the laity in North Bengal.

During the sessions, BEC leaders planned to identify members from each unit to serve in ministries such as children’s faith formation, youth empowerment, care of the sick, women’s support, social welfare, and ecological concerns. “All the members in the BEC unit will be part of any one of the ministries,” said Mr Suman Xalxo, BEC Assistant Coordinator of Jalpaiguri, adding that draft responsibilities for each ministry have already been prepared and will be finalised in consultation with parishes.

Fr I. P. Sarto, Regional BEC Coordinator for Bengal and the main resource person, explained the “Tea Gardens” model for BEC animation, emphasising the need for motivation, formation, and clarity before beginning Gospel-sharing meetings. Reflecting on the sessions, participants noted how the analogy deepened their understanding. “Tea gardens need to be cared well to produce good tea leaves; likewise BECs need to be strengthened well for effective functioning,” said Mr Anthony Tete of Bagdogra.

Fr Ignatius Topno, BEC Coordinator of Jalpaiguri, presented the five models of the Church and the significance of Gospel sharing, while Mrs Monica Pradhan stressed the vital role of mothers in helping children read Scripture and gradually participate in BEC gatherings. Participants also highlighted the influence women can have in encouraging youth and men to engage more actively in parish life.

The training concluded with participants expressing the need for ongoing formation. “We need regular training once in two months,” said Mr Ramanus Ekka from Jalpaiguri. “The more we are trained, the better we can communicate with others convincingly.”

The three-day programme marked a significant step in aligning BEC units across North Bengal with coordinated ministries that aim to support vibrant parish communities.

By I.P. Sarto