Around 75 delegates from across India arrived in Itanagar on Thursday evening for the three-day meeting, which is being hosted at the Bishop’s House of the Diocese of Itanagar. The executive session is scheduled to take place on February 21 and will conclude by noon.
The inaugural Mass was celebrated by Bishop Emeritus Dr. John Thomas Kattrukkudiyil joining with Bishop Benny Varghese Edathattel of Itanagar and the diocesan clergy and religious.
In his homily, Bishop Kattrukkudiyil reflected on the distinctive history of Christianity in Arunachal Pradesh, noting that the growth of the Church in the state largely began through the initiative of local people, particularly students who sought baptism despite earlier restrictions on Christian activity.
Bishop Benny Varghese welcomed the delegates and expressed hope that the deliberations would strengthen unity and reinforce the commitment of Catholic laity in India.
Among the national leaders present is senior Catholic lay leader John Dayal. The meeting brings together national and regional office-bearers to deliberate on matters concerning the Catholic community and public life.
Founded in 1919 and reorganized in 1930, the AICU represents an estimated 16–20 million Catholics across India and functions through 120 diocesan and district units nationwide.
The meeting is expected to conclude with renewed resolve and coordinated action by Catholic lay leadership across the country.
Reported by DOITA