The Chattogram Catholic Archdiocese successfully concluded its annual pastoral assembly, centered on the theme, “The Lord is My Shepherd” (Psalm 23:1). A total of 163 participants, including priests and representatives from various parishes, attended the assembly, which was marked by insightful discussions, reflections, and strategic planning for the pastoral mission of the archdiocese.
Opening Sessions and Welcome Address
The assembly commenced with an inaugural session featuring a welcome dance, a Bible presentation, a short prayer, and an introduction to the attending parish representatives. Father Terence Rodrigues, Vicar General of the Chattogram Catholic Archdiocese, delivered the welcome address, while His Grace Archbishop Lawrence Subrata Howlader, CSC, formally opened the assembly with his keynote address.
The second session included a comprehensive summary of parish reports, followed by a general discussion. The session was conducted by Mr. Mickey Paul Gonsalves, with assistance from Mr. Julian D Costa. Participants shared their perspectives on the pastoral challenges and opportunities in implementing the previous years pastoral plan based on the theme ‘Test yourself, examine yourself (2 Corinthians 13:5)’ within their respective parishes. The day concluded with a solemn Mass offered by Father Ripon, OMI, at the Cathedral Church.
Presentation of the Pastoral Theme for 2025
On February 7, the third session, regarded as the main session of the assembly, commenced. Archbishop Subrata presented the Pastoral Theme for the Archdiocese for the year 2025, with Mr. Jiban Tripura serving as the moderator. This session was followed by deep reflection and discussion on the theme, allowing priests, religious sisters, and lay faithful to share their personal interpretations and insights.
Subsequent sessions featured group-based reflection presentations and fellowship activities. Participants further explored the pastoral theme through discussions, integrating their experiences and understanding of their roles within the Church. A dedicated group workshop, guided by Mr. Manik Willver D Costa, Director (Program and Operations) of the Chattogram Archdiocese, was conducted. The participants were divided into four distinct groups—Priests, Religious, Faithful (Bengali), and Faithful (Tribal)—each of which had a speaker presenting key insights.
Formulation of the Five-Year Pastoral Plan
Following the discussions and reflections, a task force was formed to draft a comprehensive five-year pastoral plan for the archdiocese. This initiative aims to address the spiritual and pastoral needs of the community while aligning with the overarching vision of the archdiocese.
Concluding Sessions and Key Resolutions
On the final day, February 8, reports from the four group workshops were presented, followed by a general discussion moderated by Sister Mamata Palma, LHC, the acting pastoral coordinator. Two key outcomes were identified:
- Establishing the pastoral priorities for the five-year strategic plan of the archdiocese.
- Defining the immediate pastoral priorities for the current year based on the assembly theme.
The assembly concluded with a short closing ceremony and a solemn Mass, marking the end of an enriching and spiritually uplifting gathering.
This annual pastoral assembly reaffirmed the commitment of the Chattogram Catholic Archdiocese to shepherd its faithful with renewed faith and strategic vision, ensuring that “The Lord is My Shepherd” remains a guiding principle for its mission in the year to come.
