Catholic Council of India Advances Governance Reforms Ahead of 2027 National Assembly

The Executive Body of the Catholic Council of India (CCI) met in Secunderabad, southern India, on July 30 to finalize proposed amendments to the Council's statutes and prepare for its 16th General Body Meeting scheduled for February 2027.

The meeting, attended by 11 Executive Body members from across India, focused on strengthening the Council's governance and organizational effectiveness.

Addressing the gathering, Cardinal Anthony Poola, president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) and the Catholic Council of India, called on members to continue serving the Church with unity, dedication, and transparency.

Cardinal Poola emphasized the importance of effective governance and greater collaboration in responding to the pastoral and social challenges facing the Church in India.

A key outcome of the meeting was the approval of proposed amendments to the CCI statutes following an extensive review. The revisions are intended to strengthen the Council's organizational structure and ensure it remains responsive to the Church's current needs while remaining faithful to its founding mission.

The Executive Body said the final draft of the revised statutes will be completed by Aug. 7 before being circulated among Council members for consultation ahead of the formal approval process.

Members also reviewed preparations for the CCI's 16th General Body Meeting, which will bring together Catholic representatives from across India in February 2027, and discussed organizational priorities for the coming year.

The Catholic Council of India is the largest representative body of Catholic lay organizations in the country, working in collaboration with the CBCI to promote lay leadership and participation in the Church's pastoral and social mission.