Catholic Enquiry Centres Hold National Convention to Explore New Ways of Proclaiming the Gospel

Bangalore, August 19, 2025: A two-day national conference of the Catholic Enquiry Centres (CEC) concluded on Sunday at Paalana Bhavana, Bangalore, Karnataka, bringing together clergy, religious, and laity to reflect on fresh approaches to evangelisation.

Jointly organised by CEC Bangalore and the Association of Catholic Enquiry Centres India (ACECI), the gathering ran from 16–17 August and drew around 70 participants. It provided a space for prayer, dialogue, and collaboration on strengthening the mission of the CECs in India.

The conference opened with the Holy Mass, followed by a series of sessions led by Fr. Cyril Victor Joseph, Fr. Norbert Herman SVD, Fr. Paul D’Souza, Mr Sumit Dhanraj, Fr. Maxim Dias, and Mr. Antony Joseph. The speakers addressed themes such as digital evangelisation, overcoming fear in sharing the Gospel, and strategies for reaching people who remain outside the Church’s fold.

On the second day, Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore celebrated Mass, urging participants in his homily to nurture the “fire of love” in contemporary times. A concluding panel discussion then explored practical pathways for the growth and renewal of the CEC ministry.

Throughout the two days, the conference highlighted the importance of adopting innovative tools, involving young people, and fostering greater collaboration to build a vibrant, inclusive, and mission-driven CEC movement for the future.

Catholic Enquiry Centres, established across India, aim to share the Catholic faith with anyone seeking to know more. They provide resources, guidance, and spaces for dialogue, welcoming individuals of all religious backgrounds to explore Catholic teachings. These centres frequently organise public talks, retreats, and faith-sharing programmes, while also distributing literature and other materials on Catholicism.

Several religious congregations contribute to this mission. The Daughters of St. Paul run evangelisation and catechetical centres, while the Indian Missionary Society operates facilities such as the Matridham Ashram in North India, which serves both as a religious and cultural outreach hub.

The Association of Catholic Enquiry Centres in India, which marked its 40th anniversary in 2017, continues to coordinate and support this ministry nationwide. In a country where Catholics form a minority, these centres play a vital role in fostering interreligious understanding and offering seekers the opportunity to encounter Catholic faith and spirituality.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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