Jubilee Yātra to the Bengal Region
Bengal Regional Bishops’ Council (BRBC)
Convenors:
His Grace Most Rev. Thomas D’Souza, Chairman, BRBC
His Grace Most Rev. Vincent Aind, Archbishop of Ranchi
Pilgrims of Hope on the Synodal Journey
Workshop on the Synodal Documents and the Constitutions of the Vatican II
13 – 17 May 2024, Raiganj
Final Statement
This week-long workshop from 13-17 May in the Bengal Region, at Raiganj, has been a transformative experience, reigniting the flame of Vatican II within the context of the ongoing synodal journey. We, a diverse group of representatives – bishops, priests, religious, laypeople, and youth – have come together not just to learn, but to discern.
By delving into the synodal documents and the documents of the Second Vatican Council, we’ve discovered a renewed emphasis on collaborative listening and discernment. This resonates deeply with the spirit of Vatican II, particularly the call for active participation by the People of God as outlined in Lumen Gentium. We are all instruments of the Holy Spirit, called to contribute our voices and perspectives for the betterment of the Church.
Discussions on the Four Constitutions offered valuable guidance for synodality in the Bengal context. Gaudium et Spes, with its message of engagement with the world, reminds us to listen attentively to the joys and struggles of our communities. This aligns perfectly with the synodal process, which seeks to discern God’s will for the Church considering present realities.
Leaving this workshop, we are ignited with a renewed zeal for synodality. We return to our dioceses equipped to share the spirit of collaborative listening and discernment. We will foster open dialogues within our parishes, reaching out to all voices, especially those on the margins. Together, as pilgrims of hope on this synodal journey, we aim to build a more inclusive, participatory, and mission-oriented Church in Bengal Region and in our Dioceses.
The workshop has equipped us with tools for fostering true synodality within our communities. Leaving this workshop, we are not merely participants but active agents of synodality. As trainers, we carry the responsibility to share this knowledge and ignite a spirit of listening and dialogue, and to animate the Jubilee 2025 preparations and celebrations. As pilgrims of hope, we continue this journey together, discerning the path towards a more inclusive, participatory, and mission-oriented Church in our Diocese and the Bengal Region.
Our calls to action are:
1. Plan and Organize: Begin by forming a dedicated committee or task force responsible for planning and organizing the Jubilee 2025 celebrations, ensuring representation from all relevant stakeholders.
2. Set Goals and Objectives: Define clear goals and objectives for the Jubilee celebrations, outlining what you hope to achieve spiritually, socially, and communally during this special time.
3. Engage the Community: Involve the entire community in the planning process, seeking input and feedback to ensure that the Jubilee celebrations reflect the hopes, dreams, and needs of all members.
4. Develop a Program of Events: Create a diverse program of events and activities that cater to different interests and demographics within the community, including spiritual retreats, service projects, cultural performances, and educational seminars.
5. Promote Participation: Encourage active participation in Jubilee events and activities by providing opportunities for volunteering, leadership roles, and personal reflection.
6. Embrace Reconciliation and Healing: Use the Jubilee as an opportunity to promote reconciliation and healing within the community, addressing past wounds and divisions with a spirit of forgiveness and compassion.
7. Reach Out to Marginalized Groups: Ensure that Jubilee celebrations are inclusive and welcoming to all members of the community, especially those who may feel marginalized or excluded.
8. Celebrate Milestones and Achievements: Take time to reflect on and celebrate the milestones and achievements of the community over the past years, acknowledging the blessings and challenges that have shaped its journey.
9. Share Stories and Memories: Create opportunities for community members to share their stories and memories of faith, hope, and resilience, building a sense of unity and connection across generations.
10. Commit to Renewal and Mission: As the Jubilee celebrations end, recommit to the mission and values that define the community, pledging to continue the journey of faith and service with renewed vigour and purpose.
Most Rev. Thomas D’Souza & Most Rev. Vincent Aind
Convenors
Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Facilitator
National Coordinator for Jubilee 2025
Communio
Event Partner