Catechists in Gumla Diocese Trained for Social Transformation

Gumla, Jharkhand, October 29, 2025: Catechists from villages and parishes under the Noadih and Chainpur deaneries of the Gumla Diocese gathered at Chainpur, Gumla, Jharkhand, on 28 October, for a day-long training programme aimed at strengthening their role as spiritual leaders and contributors to community development.

Jesuit priest Fr. Anupchand Minj, SJ, Director of Hoffmann Law Associates, a Jesuit-run law firm based in Ranchi, served as the main trainer. Addressing the gathering, he said, “The work of a catechist in the Church is not a tag or title to brag about. Rather, it is God’s call to live with commitment.”

Speaking to what he described as the foot soldiers of the Church and local community, Fr. Minj stressed that the role of catechists is crucial and not confined to religious activities alone. He highlighted that catechists act as catalysts in making village church units, parishes, and dioceses vibrant and active.

He further noted that catechists today have multi-faceted responsibilities. Besides being religious leaders, they must also understand how they can contribute to the economic, social, and political life of the faithful.

All participants were Adivasis, and Fr. Minj linked Adivasi values—especially their close association with nature—to Christian values. He reminded them that Adivasi villages and places are often named after flora, fauna, or local landforms, reflecting their deep connection with creation.

Referring to the worsening environmental crisis, he said that the world has much to learn from Adivasis about protecting the Earth, the common home of all. He also urged the participants to remain vigilant against those who, unmindful of future generations, sell their ancestral lands.

The catechists found the session enlightening, particularly the simplified explanation of the Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996—commonly known as PESA. Many said they felt empowered and more confident in their pastoral work after understanding the Act’s provisions.

One of the participants, Bruno from Noadih, expressed his gratitude to the organisers, saying that had he known the provisions of PESA earlier, he would not have allowed the construction of an Eklavya School in his area.

The training was organised by Social Initiative for Growth and Networking (SIGN), an NGO run by the Jharkhand Bishops’ Council. Ms. Sunita Lakra, Ms. Prabha Lakra, and Mr. Placidus from SIGN, along with Fr. Xaverianus Kindo, Parish Priest and Dean of Chainpur, played key roles in coordinating the event.

Fr. Kindo expressed his intention to organise more such sessions for catechists in the deanery to enhance their knowledge and capacity for pastoral and social engagement.

The programme ended with a renewed sense of commitment among the catechists to serve both faith and community with greater awareness and conviction.

By Sr. Sujata Jena