Diocese of Jamshedpur Reflects on Synodality, Launches Two Key Faith Resources

Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, April 12, 2025 – The Catholic Diocese of Jamshedpur hosted a day-long synodal reflection session on April 10, 2025, at St. Joseph Cathedral in Jamshedpur. The event attracted around 130 participants, including priests and religious men and women from the diocese. Led by Archbishop Vincent Aind of the Ranchi Archdiocese, the event focused on exploring the theological and practical implications of the final document on Synodality.

Bishop Telesphore Bilung SVD, the local ordinary of Jamshedpur, welcomed Archbishop Aind and the participants before a solemn prayer service set the spiritual tone for the day.

Archbishop Aind then delivered a thought-provoking presentation on key themes from the synodal document, emphasising the co-responsibility of all the baptised, the empowerment of lay ministries, transparency in Church governance, and the importance of ongoing pastoral evaluation. He stressed that synodality is not just a process but a way of being Church, marked by listening, dialogue, and discernment.

A lively Q&A session followed, with participants engaging deeply with Archbishop Aind, discussing how the synodal principles could be practically applied within the local context of Jamshedpur. Their active involvement demonstrated a strong commitment to integrating the synodal spirit into parish life and ministry within the diocese.

In the evening, during the Chrism Mass, the diocese celebrated the release of two significant publications by Father Valerian Lobo, the Archdiocesan Director of Faith Formation. The first, “Pilgrims of Hope,” presents Pope Francis' letter “Spes non Confundit – Hope Does Not Disappoint,” alongside a concise summary of the four main constitutions of the Second Vatican Council. The second publication, a bilingual guide in Hindi and English, offers practical direction for liturgical celebrations. The launch was marked by the presence of Archbishop Aind and Bishop Bilung, making it a memorable occasion.

Father Alwin C.V., Vicar General of the Diocese, concluded the day with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to Archbishop Aind for his insights and to the participants for their active engagement. He encouraged everyone to reflect on the themes of Synodality and to integrate them into their daily lives and ministries.

The events of the day marked a significant step in the diocese's commitment to the synodal journey, fostering unity, shared mission, and a renewed sense of purpose among the faithful.

By Fr. Valerian Lobo,

Director of Faith Formation,

Diocese of Jamshedpur