India: Tura Diocese Urges Priests and Sisters to Put Shared Mission ahead of Congregational Interests

The Diocese of Tura in Meghalaya, northeastern India, held a two-day formation program on October 23–24, bringing together religious superiors, priests, and sisters to strengthen collaboration in parish ministry and promote shared responsibility for pastoral service.

Bishop Andrew R. Marak of Tura inaugurated the program on October 23 by lighting a ceremonial lamp. Auxiliary Bishop Jose Chirackal of Tura also attended the opening session.

Fr. Dr. Paul Puthussery, CSC, served as the resource person and urged religious congregations to prioritize the pastoral needs of the diocese over their individual interests.

He emphasized the importance of working closely with diocesan leadership, respecting its decisions, and following its directions in carrying out the Church’s mission.

The first day brought together 49 sister superiors from across the diocese for sessions on leadership, responsibilities in religious life, community life, and pastoral ministry. The discussions provided opportunities to share experiences and reflect on how religious women could contribute more effectively to the Church’s mission.

On October 24, a joint formation session brought together 23 priests and religious sisters to strengthen mutual understanding and cooperation in parish ministry.

The sessions addressed the importance of healthy working relationships, clarity about roles and responsibilities, open communication, and shared efforts to respond to the pastoral needs of local communities.

Participants were encouraged to recognize one another’s contributions and work together in serving the faithful, rather than treating diocesan clergy and religious congregations as separate or competing groups.

The celebration of the Eucharist formed part of the program. Bishop Marak presided over Mass on the evening of October 23, while Auxiliary Bishop Chirackal celebrated the Eucharist on the morning of October 24.

Bishop Marak acknowledged the contributions of religious congregations serving in the Diocese of Tura. Bishop Chirackal also expressed appreciation for their service and cooperation with diocesan priests.

The formation program concluded with a renewed call for priests and religious sisters to strengthen unity, mutual respect, and shared responsibility in parish ministry.

The initiative highlighted the importance of collaboration between diocesan clergy and religious congregations in sustaining pastoral services and responding effectively to the needs of Catholic communities in Meghalaya.

(With inputs from Fr. Benjamin, Diocese of Tura, Northeast India)