Jalpaiguri Priests Trained in Synodal Catechesis to Strengthen Faith Formation

Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, Jan 23, 2026: In a significant step towards deepening faith formation and renewing pastoral outreach, the Diocese of Jalpaiguri organised a day-long orientation programme for its clergy, focusing on “Synodal Approaches in Catechesis,” under the guidance of Bishop Fabian Toppo.

The programme reflected the universal Church’s call to become a more participatory, listening, and missionary community, in tune with the ongoing synodal journey initiated by Pope Francis.

Held for priests serving across the diocese, the training aimed at aligning catechetical ministry with contemporary pastoral realities. A total of 35 priests participated, demonstrating a shared commitment to renewing methods of evangelisation and faith education.

The orientation was animated by Fr. Vijay Machado, Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Faith Formation, whose engaging and thought-provoking sessions encouraged participants to reimagine catechesis not merely as instruction, but as accompaniment rooted in dialogue and discernment.

Organised under the leadership of Fr. Ignatius Topno, Secretary of the Diocesan Commission for Faith Formation, the programme emphasised a shift from traditional classroom-style teaching to a synodal approach that walks alongside the faithful and responds meaningfully to the faith experiences of children, youth, families, and the elderly.

A key focus of the training was the dialogical method of catechesis, which promotes conversation over monologue and invites active participation rather than passive learning. Fr. Machado highlighted the need to engage contemporary life questions and social realities, helping the faithful integrate faith with daily living.

Through interactive workshops, priests reflected on practical ways to implement synodal catechetical models within parish communities, encouraging collaborative ministry and deeper community involvement.

Addressing the gathering, Bishop Fabian Toppo offered a session on Liturgical Catechesis, reminding the clergy that the liturgy remains the Church’s foremost school of faith. He urged priests to ensure that every Eucharistic celebration becomes a formative experience that draws the faithful into a living encounter with Christ.

The programme concluded with an open forum during which participants shared reflections and pastoral insights. Many priests expressed appreciation for the clarity, motivation, and practical orientation of the sessions, noting that such initiatives are vital for responding to the challenges of contemporary pastoral ministry.

There was a strong collective appeal for similar programmes to be conducted regularly, enabling clergy to remain updated on evolving catechetical approaches and to continue strengthening the Church’s mission of faith formation in an ever-changing world.

By Catholic Connect Reporter