Rectors of Latin Church basilicas across India gathered to finalize statutes for their newly established national association, seeking to strengthen coordination among the country’s major centers of faith and pilgrimage.
The Association of Basilica Rectors of India is discussing the draft statutes during its annual general body meeting in Pondicherry from July 27 to 30.
The proposed statutes will be submitted to the executive committee of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India for consideration during its meeting in Bangalore in September.
The gathering brought together 26 rectors representing the Latin Church’s 30 basilicas in India. The four-day meeting includes prayer, reflection, fellowship, and pastoral planning.
The bishops’ conference established the association in 2025 to promote collaboration, mutual support, and the sharing of pastoral experiences among basilica rectors.
The national body also seeks to strengthen the common mission of basilicas as centers of worship and pilgrimage while responding to the changing pastoral needs of the Church in India.
Archbishop Francis Kalist of Pondicherry and Cuddalore presided over the opening Mass and reflected on the life and witness of St. Alphonsa.
Kalist told the rectors that their mission begins with a personal encounter with Christ and continues by leading others toward the same experience.
“Experiencing Jesus and sharing Jesus” must remain at the heart of every basilica’s ministry, Kalist told the gathering.
