Cuttack-Bhubaneswar Archdiocese and XIM University Gears Up for CCBI Bishops' Assembly

Bhubaneswar, November 7, 2024 (CCBI): Preparations are underway in the Cuttack-Bhubaneswar Archdiocese and at XIM University to host the upcoming CCBI Plenary Assembly, set to take place from January 28 to February 4, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The gathering will focus on the theme, “Discerning the Synodal Pathways for Mission,” bringing together bishops from across India to chart a collaborative direction for the Church.

The local organizing committee, led by Metropolitan Archbishop John Barwa, S.V.D., convened on November 7 at XIM University, Bhubaneswar, to review and evaluat preparations for welcoming the bishops. Bishop Kishore Kumar Kujur of Rourkela, and Bishop Varghese Thottamkara of Balasore, Bishop Aplinar Senapati of Rayagada, along with Fr. Pradosh Chandra Nayak, Vicar General, Fr. Dilbkar Parichha, Chancellor, Fr. Mrityunjaya Digal, Financial Administrator and Provincials of various religious congregations from Odisha and other committee members were also present for the meeting.

The sessions were animated by Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI, Rev. Dr. Antony R. Uvari, S.J., Vice Chancellor of XIM University, Rev. Dr. Richard Vaz, S.V.D., Manager of Arnold’s School, Bhubaneswar and Rev. Dr. Christopher Vimalraj, Associate Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI.

In preparation for the assembly, the CCBI General Secretariat has circulated a preparatory document and questionnaire to dioceses and religious communities nationwide, gathering input to shape discussions. To broaden engagement, an online survey has also been launched, encouraging lay faithful to contribute their perspectives. A Working Document will be prepared based on these responses for the Assembly.

A highlight of the assembly will be the introduction of the "spiritual conversation methodology," a process designed to deepen engagement and foster constructive dialogue among participants.

Representing 132 dioceses and 208 bishops, the CCBI stands as Asia’s largest episcopal conference and the fourth largest globally. This synodal initiative reflects its commitment to building an inclusive, collaborative Church environment in India.

By Dr. Joshy Xavier