New Delhi, January 20, 2025, CBCI: In a significant milestone for women's leadership in the Vatican, Pope Francis has announced that Sister Raffaella Petrini, currently serving as Secretary General, will assume the role of President of the Vatican City State Governatorate starting in March. This appointment follows the retirement of Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga.
The announcement was made during an interview with Fabio Fazio on Italian TV channel Nove's program Che tempo che fa, aired on Sunday evening. Sister Petrini's appointment marks another step forward in the Pope’s ongoing efforts to include women in key Vatican leadership positions.
Reflecting on the increasing role of women in the Curia, Pope Francis remarked, “The work of women in the Curia has progressed slowly but effectively. Now, we have many. At the Governatorate, the Secretary General, who will become President in March, is a nun... Women manage better than we do.”
This appointment follows the recent historic selection of Sister Simona Brambilla as Prefect of the Dicastery for Consecrated Life, further emphasizing the Vatican's commitment to promoting women to prominent roles within its governance structure.


Sister Raffaella Petrini to Lead Vatican Governatorate in Historic Appointment

New Delhi, January 17, 2025, CBCI: CRI statement said: “As reported in several sections of the media, in a speech, at an event in Indore on Monday, 13 January 2025, the Supremo of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak  Sangh  (RSS),  Mohan  Bhagwat,  made  comments/claims which would certainly raise the hackles of all those who cherish the values and the rights enshrined in the Constitution of India.”

CRI statement continues “we the Conference of Religious India (CRI) unequivocally state that the comments of Bhagwat are totally unwarranted. They are a blatant and manipulative attempt to denigrate the Adivasis, demonise the Christian minority, divide the country on lines of religion and, above all, defocus from the inability of the ruling regime to deal with the real and urgent needs of the country which include rampant corruption, crony capitalism, the growing impoverishment of the masses, and the downward spiral of the economy.”

CRI statement concludes “Bhagwat and his ilk must stop this hate and violent rhetoric against Christians and other minorities immediately. In this 75th  year of the Constitution of India, they will do a great service to ensure that the pluralistic, secular, and democratic fabric of the nation is never destroyed and to promote and protect the fundamental rights of all citizens.”


Conference of Religious India (CRI) objects to Mohan Bhagwat’s statement on Ghar Wapasi

New Delhi, January 16, 2025, (CBCI): It was shocking to read a piece of publication a few media and more particularly in Indian Express News Daily with the headlines in the front page of 15th January, 2025 which read, “Bhagwat Quotes Pranab:  If no Ghar Wapsi, Adivasis would turn anti-national”.

It speaks volumes on the current trend of right-wing compliant journalism and submissive media, degrading the independent and fearless media, the acclaimed fourth pillar of Indian vibrant democracy.  Fabricated personal conversation being attributed to a former president of India and its posthumous publication with the vested interest of an organization with questionable credibility raises a grave issue of national importance. Is it not the violent Ghar Wapsi program of VHP and other similar organizations, curtailing the exercise of freedom of conscience of economically deprived tribals, the real anti-national activity?

It also raises the issue, whether the alleged statement was in the scheme of things when the former President Pranab Mukherjee was invited to one of their programs. Why Mohan Bhagwat did not speak when Dr. Pranab Mukherjee was alive? The intention seems to be diabolic, sinister and not genuine. We do not believe the statement to be true and spoken by the former president, because we hold him in great esteem for his contribution to the nation and the respect for pluralistic secular ethos of our motherland.

It is unfortunate that the thrice banned organization, attached with the kind of violent Indian history as has seen over the past several decades, is allowed with impunity to call the non-violent, peace loving and service oriented Christian community as anti- nationals. Still worse is, such false propaganda getting wide publicity in the mainline media without any journalistic morality and ethical principles. Wide publicity to such unverifiable and motivated statements are prone to divide communities by inciting violence and promoting hatred.
The  contribution  of  Christian  community in  the  nation  building  is  well  known, appreciated and acclaimed in various fields such as freedom struggle, education, medical care, social upliftment etc.
The real issue is the right to exercise freedom of conscience, a fundamental right under Art. 25, by the tribals and other vulnerable who too are entitled to live a life with human dignity as enshrined in the Constitution of India. Calling them anti-nationals for exercising their fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution exhibits the hidden motive and malicious agenda. If at all the exercise of freedom of conscience by any sections of the society affects any political ambitions of the rich and the powerful, and questions the status quo in the society, should it be condemned by violent acts of organized ghar-wapsi programs? Is it not the continued tendency of the influential classes to perpetuate the age-old subjugation and discrimination? Is it not the time for India to consider economic empowerment and educational enlightenment of all those deprived and vulnerable citizen groups as directed under Article 38, 39 and 43 of the Constitution, rather than falling into the scheming and propaganda of powerful and oppressive sections?
We, the 2.3% of Indian citizens who are Christians feel extremely hurt by such manipulated and motivated propaganda unleashed. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) condemns the manner and the contents of what is published through the above-mentioned article /news story in some of the main line publications including Indian express dated 15 January 2025.
We call upon the responsible media, the political leadership, parliamentarians and people of goodwill to rise above the destructive mindset, and respond appropriately to this divisive politics to perpetuate hatred and violence disrupting the pluralistic-secular fabric and development and progress of our great nation.


CBCI questions Mohan Bhagwat’s claim about Pranab Mukherjee’s quote

New Delhi, January 16, 2025, CBCI: In his recent General Audience, Pope Francis drew attention to the suffering of children worldwide, emphasizing the urgent need to protect minors from the injustices they face. He expressed deep concern for the hundreds of millions of children forced into labor, many exposed to hazardous work conditions, and those enslaved by human trafficking for prostitution, pornography, or forced marriages.
Pope Francis extended his gratitude to those who refuse to turn a blind eye to the plight of these vulnerable children. The Pope invoked the inspiring legacy of Saint Teresa of Calcutta, who was a “mother to the most disadvantaged and forgotten girls and boys.” Describing her as a joyful worker in the vineyard of the Lord, he highlighted her ability to see and care for the “invisible little ones,” encouraging the world to follow her example. 
“With the tenderness and attention of her gaze, she can accompany us to see the invisible little ones, the too many slaves of a world that we cannot abandon to its injustices. Because the happiness of the weakest builds the peace of all,” the Pope said.
He concluded with a heartfelt call to action, quoting a message inspired by the words of Mother Teresa herself: “I ask for a safe place where I can play. I ask for a smile from someone who knows how to love. I ask for the right to be a child, to be the hope of a better world. I ask to be able to grow as a person. Can I count on you?”


Pope Francis Highlights the Plight of Children, Invoking the Legacy of St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta

New Delhi, January 15, 2025, CBCI: The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) has scheduled a significant meeting of its Office Bearers, Regional Deputy Secretaries, and the Secretaries of CBCI Offices and Desks from February 27 to March 1, 2025, at NISCORT, NCR.   
In the spirit of the Jubilee Year, the meeting will focus on uniting the CBCI as a cohesive body to bear a unified Christian witness. Strategic planning for the next phase - leading to the 2033 Jubilee commemorating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Christ - will also be a priority.
This landmark event celebrates 80 years of CBCI's existence, reflecting on its journey, accomplishments, and challenges, while discerning a hopeful path forward. Discussions will center on revisiting CBCI's mission, fostering unity, enhancing socio-political engagement, uphold human dignity and advancing pastoral, educational, and social justice initiatives across India.


CBCI Convenes Strategic Meeting to Mark Jubilee Year and 80th Anniversary

New Delhi, January 14, 2025, CBCI:   Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, President of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC), has written to bishops across Asia, emphasizing the importance of synodality in fostering communion, participation, and mission within the Church.

Reflecting on the impact of the Synod on Synodality and the FABC 50 General Conference, Cardinal Ferrão highlighted how these events have encouraged inclusive dialogue and active engagement. "They promote a sense of unity and shared responsibility," he stated, calling for new approaches to integrate synodality into the FABC's meetings, activities, and events.

Cardinal Ferrão proposed the establishment of an "Office for Synodal Transformation," which will be further discussed during the FABC Central Committee meeting in March 2025. The envisioned office aims to support bishops in their formation on synodality, facilitate resource-sharing among Asian Conferences, and strengthen collaboration between continental Episcopal organizations.

“The Jubilee Year symbolizes renewal and forgiveness,” he noted, urging the Church in Asia to embrace hope, unity, and new beginnings. He also invited bishops to contribute suggestions for enhancing the synodal journey.

This initiative underscores FABC's commitment to deepening collaboration and embodying the synodal spirit across the continent.


FABC President Calls for Greater Synodality, Proposes New Office for Collaboration

New Delhi, January 11, 2025, CBCI: Pope Francis has appointed Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, head of Apostolic Journeys at the Secretariat of State, as a member of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches.
Cardinal Koovakad’s extensive experience in ecclesial diplomacy and his leadership in Apostolic Journeys are expected to bring valuable insights to the Dicastery, which oversees the pastoral care and development of Eastern Catholic Churches around the world.


Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad Appointed to Dicastery for the Eastern Churches

New Delhi, January 11, 2025 (CBCI): Pope Francis welcomed young patients from the Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Clinic in Wrocław, Poland, along with their parents, healthcare workers, and the Honorary Consul of Luxembourg in Poland, during a special audience at the Vatican on yesterday.
In his heartfelt address, the Holy Father expressed joy at the opportunity to share hope and love with the group. “While I was coming to meet you, I felt a joy in my heart because we have the opportunity to give each other hope and love. And there is also another reason: you, dear children and young people, are signs of hope for me. And why? Because I am sure that Jesus is present in you,” Pope Francis said.
He affectionately referred to the young patients as his “friends” and invited them to support the Church by offering their prayers and sufferings for his intentions. “I too call you friends: you are friends! And I would like to ask you to help me to serve the Church. And how? Offering, every now and then, your prayers and your sufferings for the Pope’s intentions. Thank you for this,” he said.
Pope Francis also praised the parents and healthcare workers accompanying the children, describing them as “proof of Jesus’ friendship.” He acknowledged their love, dedication, and compassion in supporting the young patients. “It is the gentle and tender smile of the doctors, nurses, and physiotherapists who care for you and work to improve your health, so that you do not lose your dreams and your hopes,” he remarked.
The meeting concluded with blessings and words of encouragement from the Pope, highlighting the mutual exchange of hope and love that marked the encounter.


Pope Francis Meets Young Patients from Wrocław, Calls Them “Signs of Hope”

New Delhi, January 11, 2025, CBCI: His  Beatitude   Mar  Raphael   Thattil,   the  Major  Archbishop   of  the  Syro-Malabar Church and the Metropolitan  Archbishop  of Emakulam-Angamaly,   appointed Archbishop   Mar  Joseph  Pamplany   as the  Vicar  of  the  Major  Archbishop   for the Archeparchy   of Emakulam-Angamaly    on January  11,   2025.  This  appointment  was made  following   the  First  Session  of the  XXXIII   Synod  of  Bishops  of  the  Syro Malabar  Church,  held at Mount  St. Thomas,  Kakkanad  from 6 to  11  January  2025, where  Archbishop   Pamplany  was  elected  to the  Office  of the Vicar  of the  Major Archbishop.    The   election   was   subsequently    confirmed    by   the   Holy   Father. Archbishop   Pamplany   will  continue  to  serve  as the  Metropolitan   Archbishop   of Tellicherry.

Holy Father Pope Francis  has accepted  the resignation  of Bishop  Mar Bosco Puthur from  the  Office  of  Apostolic   Administrator    of  the  Archeparchy   of  Emakulam Angamaly.  Mar Puthur,  who was appointed  to the Office  on December  7,  2023,  had submitted  his resignation  in September  2024  due to health  reasons.   With  the  resignation   of  the  Apostolic   Administrator    accepted,   the governance  of the Archeparchy   of Emakulam-Angamaly    has been  entrusted  to the Major  Archbishop  by the Apostolic  See. At the same time,  Archbishop  Cyril Vasil SJ will  continue  to be the  Pontifical  Delegate  for the Archeparchy   of Emakulam Angamaly.



Archbishop  Mar Joseph  Pamplany Appointed  Vicar of the Major Archbishop  for the Archeparchy of Ernakulam-Angamaly; Holy Father Pope Francis Accepted  the Resignation  of Bishop  Mar Bosco Puthur

New Delhi, January 10, 2025, CBCI: In his annual address to the Diplomatic Corps, Pope Francis expressed deep concern over the increasingly polarized nature of today’s societies, marked by a widespread sense of fear and distrust of others and the future. He particularly highlighted the dangers posed by the creation and spread of fake news, which not only distorts facts but also perceptions, generating false images of reality. This phenomenon, he said, foments hate, undermines people’s sense of security, and compromises the civil coexistence and stability of nations.

The Holy Father’s prayerful hope for the new year is that the Jubilee may serve as an opportunity for everyone—Christians and non-Christians alike—to reflect on the relationships that bind us together as human beings and as political communities. He emphasized the role of diplomacy in fostering dialogue with all parties, including those seen as less “convenient” or not legitimized to negotiate. In his view, such dialogue is essential to break the chains of hatred and vengeance and to defuse the destructive power of selfishness, pride, and arrogance, which fuel the determination to wage war.

Pope Francis also reflected on the deep crisis of our times, observing that while humanity has known great progress, development, and wealth, it has also become lonely and lost. He noted that some prefer pets over children and distrust rational argumentation, often believing it to be manipulated by unseen powers. Others invent their own “truth,” disregarding the objectivity of reality. He warned that such tendencies can be amplified by modern media and artificial intelligence, which can be misused to manipulate minds for economic, political, and ideological ends.

In his address, Pope Francis called for a renewed commitment to dialogue, truth, and mutual respect in diplomacy, urging all to work towards healing the divisions that threaten global peace and stability.


Pope Francis’ Address to Diplomats:  A Call for Dialogue and Peace                   - Fr. Kampan Chinnam                                                        

New Delhi, January 9, 2025 (CBCI): A court in Chhattisgarh's Jashpur district has taken a significant step by registering a criminal case against a woman BJP MLA for her alleged objectionable remarks on Jesus Christ, made during a public event last year. The court has summoned her to appear before it on Friday, indicating that the matter is being taken seriously. 
Herman Kujur, represented by his lawyer Vishnu Kuldeep, filed a complaint against her, which was heard by Judicial Magistrate First Class Anil Kumar Chauhan on January 6. As a result, Raymuni Bhagat, who represents the Jashpur assembly constituency, will have to appear in court to face the charges.
News Courtesy: The Indian Express, Thursday, Jan 09, 2025, EPaper  


Chhattisgarh Court Summons BJP MLA Over Alleged Remarks on Jesus Christ

New Delhi, January 9, 2025 (CBCI): In an inspiring milestone, Dr. Sister Noelle Rose, a nun from the Congregation of the Mother of Carmel (CMC), is set to lead the Kerala National Service Scheme (NSS) contingent at the prestigious Republic Day parade in the national capital.

According to Sister Noella “Leading the Kerala contingent in the Republic Day Parade in Delhi as a nun is a deeply humbling and proud moment for me. It symbolizes the harmony between faith, service, and patriotism. This opportunity allows me to showcase not only the talents and dedication of our team but also the values of selflessness and unity that I hold dear. Representing Kerala on such a prestigious platform is an honor, and I am grateful for the chance to inspire others through this role.”

This historic moment marks the first time a nun has taken up the mantle of leading an NSS contingent at the event, showcasing an extraordinary achievement in the realm of social service and education.

Dr. Sister Noelle Rose's remarkable role at the Republic Day parade underscores the evolving dynamics of leadership in community service and education, inspiring countless individuals across the nation.


Catholic Nun Dr. Sister Noelle Rose to Lead Kerala NSS Contingent at Republic Day Parade

New Delhi, 25 December 2024 (CBCI): On Christmas Day, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, BJP President and Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals and Fertilizers, visited the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) Center to pay homage to the Baby Jesus statue. The visit was marked by festive cheer and meaningful dialogue, reflecting mutual respect and goodwill.
Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of CBCI, received Shri Nadda at the CBCI reception. The occasion was graced with carol songs, which added to the festive atmosphere. Shri Nadda congratulated the carol group for their performance and acknowledged the spiritual significance of the celebration.


Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda Visits CBCI Center on Christmas Day

New Delhi, December 23, 2024: Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, President, CBCI, voiced the concerns of the Christian community in his address, stating: "As we rejoice in the message of Christmas, we are also mindful of the challenges faced by some members of our community in certain parts of the country. It is with utmost respect and humility, Honourable Prime Minister, that I bring to your kind attention the concerns of those who have been targeted by anti-social fringe elements. These incidents of violence and discrimination not only harms the affected individuals but also disrupts the harmony and unity that you so tirelessly strive to uphold."

In his Presidential Address, Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, reflected on the essence of Christmas as a time to build bridges of understanding and serve those in need. He said "Christmas is a time when we come together to celebrate the message of peace, love, and goodwill brought to us by the birth of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. This gathering is a powerful symbol of the unity and harmony that defines the spirit of India. Mr. Prime Minister, your vision for a united and progressive India echoes the Gospel values of inclusion and service to all."


Archbishop Andrews Thazhath expressed the concerns of the Christian community during the CBCI’s Christmas Celebration in 2024

New Delhi, December 23, 2024: The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) hosted a grand Christmas celebration at its Centre in New Delhi. The evening was marked by joy, fellowship, and a significant milestone for the Church’s digital outreach efforts.
During the event, the CBCI unveiled its newly designed website and the CBCI Mobile Application, Catholic Companion. These digital platforms aim to enhance connectivity and engagement within the Christian community, reflecting the Church’s commitment to embracing modern technology.
The celebration brought together Bishops, clergy, religious, and lay faithful, highlighting the spirit of unity and innovation as the Church continues its mission in an evolving digital landscape.


CBCI Hosts Christmas Celebration and Launches Digital Platforms

New Delhi, January 8, 2025 (CBCI): Fr. Felix Wilfred is a distinguished theologian and academic renowned for his contributions to philosophy, religious studies, and cross-cultural dialogue. He served as a professor at the University of Madras, where he held several key positions, including President of the Faculty of Arts and Chairman of the School of Philosophy and Religious Thought. 

In addition to his roles at the University of Madras, Fr. Wilfred was a member of the International Theological Commission of the Vatican and served as President of the International Theological Review, Concilium, which is published in multiple European languages. 

Fr. Wilfred has been a visiting professor at several international universities, including the University of Frankfurt, University of Nijmegen, Boston College, Ateneo de Manila University, and Fudan University in China. He was also the first holder of the Chair of Indian Studies at the University of Dublin, Ireland. 

After retiring from the University of Madras, Fr. Wilfred founded and currently directs the Asian Centre for Cross-Cultural Studies (ACCS) in Chennai. 

Throughout his career, Fr. Wilfred has directed over thirty Ph.D. dissertations and authored numerous books and articles, with his writings translated into multiple languages, including French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Chinese. 

In 2023, he delivered the prestigious Duffy Lectures at Boston College, further solidifying his status as a leading figure in contemporary theology and cross-cultural studies. 
MAY HE ENJOY THE ETERNAL BLISS!


Fr. Felix Wilfred, Distinguished Theologian and Academic, Passes Away

New Delhi, December 23, 2024: The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) hosted a grand Christmas celebration at its Centre in New Delhi on the evening of December 23, 2024. The event, marked by the presence of the Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi as the Chief Guest, showcased the true spirit of Christmas—peace, goodwill, and unity.

The program commenced with an Opening Bhajan by the renowned musician Stephen Devasi, setting an atmosphere of harmony and devotion. Archbishop Anil J. T. Couto, Secretary General of CBCI, warmly welcomed the gathering in his address. A delightful Christmas Musical Welcome by differently-abled children moved the audience, embodying the inclusive values of the season.

The Honourable Prime Minister was felicitated with a shawl by Archbishop George Antonyswamy, Vice-President-I of CBCI, and a memento by Bishop Joseph Mar Thomas, Vice-President-II of CBCI.

In his Presidential Address, Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, reflected on the essence of Christmas as a time to build bridges of understanding and serve those in need. He said "Christmas is a time when we come together to celebrate the message of peace, love, and goodwill brought to us by the birth of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. This gathering is a powerful symbol of the unity and harmony that defines the spirit of India. Mr. Prime Minister, your vision for a united and progressive India echoes the Gospel values of inclusion and service to all."

Also, he voiced the concerns of the Christian community in his address, stating:
"As we rejoice in the message of Christmas, we are also mindful of the challenges faced by some members of our community in certain parts of the country. It is with utmost respect and humility, Honourable Prime Minister, that I bring to your kind attention the concerns of those who have been targeted by anti-social fringe elements. These incidents of violence and discrimination not only harms the affected individuals but also disrupts the harmony and unity that you so tirelessly strive to uphold."

In his address, Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi emphasized: "The teachings of Lord Christ celebrate love, harmony, and brotherhood. It is important that we all work to make this spirit stronger. However, it pains my heart when there are attempts to spread violence and cause disruption in society. It is essential that we come together to fight such challenges."

The program concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Fr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of CBCI, and a Concluding Prayer by His Eminence Oswald Cardinal Gracias. A significant milestone of the evening was the launch of the Newly Designed CBCI Website and CBCI Mobile Application, symbolizing the Church’s strides in digital outreach.

The CBCI extends heartfelt gratitude to the Honourable Prime Minister and all dignitaries who participated in the celebrations, making it a memorable occasion of unity and hope.


Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi graces CBCI Christmas celebrations in New Delhi

The inauguration of the Jubilee 2025 in the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church commenced on Thursday, 2nd January 2025, at 9:00 am with a grand ceremonial procession of Bishops and Priests to the altar, and with the Concelebration of the Holy Eucharist. This significant occasion marked the beginning of a year dedicated to spiritual renewal and reflection, highlighting the theme "Pilgrims of Hope."

Inauguration of the Jubilee 2025 in the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church

New Delhi, January 7, 2025 (CBCI): Pope Francis has appointed Sr. Simona Brambilla as the first female Prefect of a Vatican dicastery. The Italian-born member of the Consolata Missionaries will lead the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.
Additionally, His Eminence Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB, has been appointed as Pro-Prefect of the same dicastery.


Sr. Simona Brambilla Appointed as Vatican’s First Female Dicastery Prefect

New Delhi, January 6, 2025: The first session of the 33rd Synod of the Syro-Malabar Major Archiepiscopal Church is set to begin today at St. Thomas Mount, Kakkanad, the Church's headquarters.
The session will open with reflections by Mar Joseph Arumachadathu MCBS, the Bishop of the Bhadravathi Diocese. Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil will formally inaugurate the Synod.
A total of 54 bishops, including those from India and abroad, along with retired bishops, are expected to participate in the proceedings.
The Synod will conclude on Saturday, January 11, 2025. The Major Archbishop has urged all the faithful to pray for the successful completion of the Synod.

Syro-Malabar Synod to Convene from January 6-11

Archbishop Anil Couto, Secretary General of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) and Archbishop of Delhi, officially inaugurated the Jubilee Year at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in New Delhi.
The ceremony, held on New Year’s Day, marked the beginning of a year-long celebration filled with spiritual programs and activities aimed at fostering faith and community engagement. Faithful from across the archdiocese gathered at the cathedral to participate in the inaugural Mass and blessings.

Archbishop Anil Couto Inaugurates Jubilee Year in Delhi

New Delhi, January 4, 2025 (CBCI): Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão has officially assumed office as the President of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) as of January 1, 2025. He succeeds Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, SDB, of Myanmar, who concluded his tenure as the head of the Asian Church.

Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão Assumes Leadership of FABC

Trichur, Kerala: In a grand ceremony filled with devotion and spiritual fervor, Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, the President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) and the Archbishop of Trichur, inaugurated the Jubilee Year 2025 at the historic Lourdes Cathedral in Trichur on 29 December 2024.
The Jubilee Year, a special period of thanksgiving and renewal, calls the faithful to grow deeper in Faith, Hope, and Love. The inauguration ceremony was marked by a solemn Holy Eucharist, vibrant hymns, and prayers of gratitude, drawing a large gathering of clergy, religious, and laity from across the archdiocese.
In his homily, Archbishop Thazhath emphasized the significance of the Jubilee as a time to reflect on God’s blessings, seek spiritual renewal, and strengthen communal bonds. He encouraged the faithful to engage in acts of charity and outreach, embodying the Gospel values in their daily lives.


Archbishop Andrews Thazhath Inaugurates Jubilee Year 2025 at Lourdes Cathedral, Trichur

Delhi: In a significant announcement made by the Vatican, His Holiness Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Rt. Rev. Peter Parapullil from the pastoral care of the Diocese of Jhansi. The decision was made public in Rome on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at noon corresponding to 16:30 hours, Indian Standard Time, at CBCI center, New Delhi. 
With this transition, Rt. Rev. Wilfred Moras, the Coadjutor Bishop of Jhansi, will formally assume the office of Bishop of Jhansi.
The Apostolic Nunciature expressed its deep gratitude and appreciation to Rt. Rev. Peter Parapullil for his dedicated years of Episcopal Ministry in the Diocese of Jhansi, highlighting the invaluable contributions he made to the spiritual and social growth of the diocese.
The announcement was relayed by Rev. Fr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI).
This leadership change marks a new chapter for the Diocese of Jhansi under the guidance of Rt. Rev. Wilfred Moras.


Pope Francis Accepts Resignation of Rt. Rev. Peter Parapullil; Rt. Rev. Wilfred Moras Assumes as Bishop of Jhansi

CBCI President Mourns the Demise of Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh
New Delhi: The President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), Most Rev. Andrews Thazhath, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh. In an official condolence message, he extended heartfelt sympathies to Dr. Singh’s family and loved ones.
Highlighting Dr. Singh’s immense contributions, Most Rev. Thazhath described him as a visionary economist who played a pivotal role in shaping India’s economic landscape. "Shri Manmohan Singh's contributions to the country's growth and development are immeasurable," he noted, acknowledging the late leader’s transformative impact on the nation’s progress.
The CBCI President also praised Dr. Singh’s commitment to social justice and his advocacy for the well-being of minority communities, which stood as a hallmark of his leadership.
"We pray that his legacy continues to inspire future generations to work towards a more just and equitable society," Most Rev. Thazhath stated, offering prayers for Dr. Singh’s soul to rest in peace and for God to grant solace to his family during this time of grief.
The message from the CBCI underscores Dr. Manmohan Singh’s enduring legacy as a leader whose contributions transcended economics, fostering values of equality and justice for all.

CBCI News Highlights

Sister Raffaella Petrini to Lead Vatican Governatorate in Historic Appointment

Conference of Religious India (CRI) objects to Mohan Bhagwat’s statement on Ghar...

CBCI questions Mohan Bhagwat’s claim about Pranab Mukherjee’s quote

Pope Francis Highlights the Plight of Children, Invoking the Legacy of St. Mothe...

CBCI Convenes Strategic Meeting to Mark Jubilee Year and 80th Anniversary

FABC President Calls for Greater Synodality, Proposes New Office for Collaborati...

Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad Appointed to Dicastery for the Eastern Churches

Pope Francis Meets Young Patients from Wrocław, Calls Them “Signs of Hope”

Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany Appointed Vicar of the Major Archbishop for t...

Pope Francis’ Address to Diplomats: A Call for Dialogue and Peace ...

Chhattisgarh Court Summons BJP MLA Over Alleged Remarks on Jesus Christ

Catholic Nun Dr. Sister Noelle Rose to Lead Kerala NSS Contingent at Republic Da...

Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda Visits CBCI Center on Christmas Day

Archbishop Andrews Thazhath expressed the concerns of the Christian community du...

CBCI Hosts Christmas Celebration and Launches Digital Platforms

Fr. Felix Wilfred, Distinguished Theologian and Academic, Passes Away

Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi graces CBCI Christmas celebrations ...

Inauguration of the Jubilee 2025 in the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church

Sr. Simona Brambilla Appointed as Vatican’s First Female Dicastery Prefect

Syro-Malabar Synod to Convene from January 6-11

Archbishop Anil Couto Inaugurates Jubilee Year in Delhi

Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão Assumes Leadership of FABC

Archbishop Andrews Thazhath Inaugurates Jubilee Year 2025 at Lourdes Cathedral, ...

Pope Francis Accepts Resignation of Rt. Rev. Peter Parapullil; Rt. Rev. Wilfred ...

CBCI President Mourns the Demise of Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh