A nationwide call to strengthen collaboration in evangelization and vocations echoed at the 44th Conference of Religious India (CRI) Northeast Assembly, where religious congregations launched the region’s Pastoral Plan 2033.
The assembly, held at the Social Forum in Guwahati, brought together 115 participants from 98 religious congregations across Northeast India. The three-day gathering will culminate in a Pastoral Conference on 1 September 2025.
The new Pastoral Plan is anchored on the theme “Empowerment of the Religious of Northeast as Missionary Disciples of Jesus for Mission Northeast 2033.” It seeks to align the Church’s work with the region’s missionary goals in the run-up to 2033.
Rev. Dr. GP Amalraj, Regional Deputy Secretary for the Bishops’ Council, inaugurated the event by unveiling the plan.
He said contributions have already been received from 13 dioceses and stressed that “achieving the outlined goals by 2033 necessitates collaboration among all the priests and religious.”
He also extended blessings for the discussions on behalf of the Northeast India Regional Bishops’ Council (NEIRBC).
Fr. Charles Leone, National Secretary for Vocations, Religious, Clergy, and Seminarians (VRCS), underlined the historical significance of the year, marking a century since Christ’s first outreach to the Northeast.
He recalled the hymn “No Turning Back” as a symbol of faith in the region: “the cross before me…the cross behind me…”
During the assembly’s reflection, a Sister from the Holy Cross Menzingen identified “the Transfigured Christ” as the icon of consecrated life, emphasizing that vocation is “rooted not in worldly symbols but in the illuminating presence of Christ.”
Fr. Charles called for the Church to cultivate “a passion for the mission, not just for the institutions.” On vocations, Trinitarian priest Fr. Jolly stressed that the goal should be “attracting and inspiring vocations rather than merely promoting them.”
The animator reinforced this point, saying “attracting vocations by personal accompaniment is the only way forward to find the disciples of Christ.”
“This assembly is not a mere regional gathering; it serves as a national testament to the Catholic Church’s commitment to spreading Christ’s message,” said CRI-NE Secretary Sr. Theresa, who is conducting the program for the first time since assuming office.
The assembly also marked the first under the leadership of new President Sr. Mabel Gotherp, FMA, Provincial of Guwahati, alongside Secretary Sr. Theresa Joseph, MSMHC.
