Bangladesh: Archdiocese of Chattogram Sets 2026 Pastoral Priorities at Three-Day Assembly

The Chattogram Catholic Archdiocese in southeastern Bangladesh held its Annual Pastoral Assembly from January 15 to 17, under the theme “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord” (Luke 1:46). The three-day gathering drew 161 representatives from 13 parishes and took place in the auditorium of Brother Flavian Kindergarten School in Chattogram.

The assembly was formally inaugurated by Archbishop Lawrence Subrata Howlader, CSC, who lit the ceremonial lamp and delivered the inaugural address. Father Terence Rodrigues, Vicar General of the Archdiocese, welcomed all participants.

On the first day, Mr. Flavian D’Costa, Program Secretary of the Archdiocese, presented a summary of the parish activity reports for 2025. This was followed by an open discussion that highlighted the progress achieved and challenges faced in implementing the parish-based priorities adopted last year.

During the assembly, Archbishop Howlader presented the Pastoral Letter and the main theme of the Archdiocese for 2026, emphasizing gratitude, joy, and witness in pastoral life. Participants then identified the pastoral priorities for 2026 through group work and outlined concrete action plans for their implementation.

Mr. Mickey Paul Gonsalves, Head of Programs and Operations, shared the Archdiocese’s plans and vision for a diocesan family survey aimed at strengthening parish engagement.

Also present were Father Sadhan Augustin Gregory, Director of the Archbishop’s Curia Office; Sister Mamata Palma, LHC, Pastoral Coordinator; and parish priests from across the Archdiocese.

The assembly provided a platform to review parish pastoral activities, formulate future plans, and set the overall pastoral direction for the Chattogram Catholic Archdiocese in 2026.