Successful Launch: CCBI Completes First Diocesan Contact Persons Training for Jubilee 2025
Bengaluru, India – August 19, 2024– The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the Training of Trainers (ToT) program for Diocesan Contact Persons (DCPs) held on August 16-17, 2024, at the National Biblical Catechetical and Liturgical Centre (NBCLC) in Bengaluru. This pivotal event marks a crucial step in the nationwide preparations for the Jubilee 2025 celebrations, themed “Pilgrims of Hope.”
The two-day program, organised in collaboration with the Pontifical Mission Organizations, India, and Communio, was attended by representatives from dioceses across the country. The training aimed to equip DCPs with the knowledge, resources, and strategies necessary to lead and coordinate Jubilee 2025 initiatives in their respective regions.
The program began with an introductory session led by Rev. Dr. Christopher Vimalraj Hiruthya, CCBI Associate Deputy Secretary General, who set the tone for the event by emphasizing the spiritual significance of the Jubilee and the importance of unity in the Church’s mission. Throughout the two days, participants engaged in a series of sessions covering the key aspects of the Jubilee, including its significance, the Year of Learning and Praying, and best practices for parish-level preparations.
A highlight of the training was the session on dissemination strategies, which provided participants with practical tools for spreading the Jubilee message across their dioceses. The program also introduced the CCBI’s Preparatory Document and discussed the themes for parish feast novenas and the Jubilee 2025 calendar.
The event concluded with a valedictory session presided over by His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore. In his closing remarks, Archbishop Machado praised the dedication of the participants and encouraged them to carry the spirit of the Jubilee into their communities. “Your role as Diocesan Contact Persons is vital in ensuring that the message of hope reaches every corner of our nation,” he said. Mr. Nigel Fernandes, CEO, ATC Publishers, and Fr. Anil Prasad, Deputy Secretary to Karnataka Region were present for the occasion.
The Handbook that was used during the training was co-authored by Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, CCBI Deputy Secretary General.
Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, National Coordinator, Convenor, and Facilitator for the Jubilee 2025 preparations expressed his gratitude to all participants and partners. “This program has laid a strong foundation for our collective efforts as we move forward towards Jubilee 2025. The energy and commitment shown by the DCPs during these two days have been truly inspiring,” he said.
The CCBI looks forward to continued collaboration with dioceses across India as they work together to prepare for a meaningful and spiritually enriching Jubilee 2025.