Karnataka Regional Catholic Think Tank Holds Annual General Meeting in Bengaluru
- All 13 Bishops and Two Auxiliary Bishops Participate; Diocesan Delegates Represent 13 Dioceses
Bengaluru: The Karnataka Regional Catholic Think Tank (KRCTT) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at Subhodhana, Regional Pastoral Centre (KROSS), Bengaluru. The meeting brought together the Bishops, Auxiliary Bishops and diocesan representatives from across Karnataka for a day of reflection, dialogue, sharing and coordinated action.
The AGM witnessed the participation of all 13 Bishops of Karnataka and two Auxiliary Bishops, along with diocesan delegates representing 13 dioceses. The gathering provided an important regional platform to discuss issues concerning the Catholic community and wider society and to strengthen cooperation and communication among the dioceses.
The programme commenced with the arrival, breakfast and registration of participants. The formal session was called to order by Ms. Clara Fernandes, General Secretary, KRCTT, followed by the welcome address by Ms. Nirmala Thomas, Joint Secretary, KRCTT.
The traditional lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries marked the beginning of the deliberations. The ceremony symbolised the Think Tank’s commitment to promoting dialogue, collective reflection and constructive engagement.
Keynote Address
The keynote address was delivered by Most Rev. Dr Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bengaluru and Mentor of KRCTT. In his address, he highlighted the importance of collective reflection, responsible engagement and collaboration in responding to challenges facing the Church and society.
Diocesan Reports and Regional Review
A major part of the AGM was devoted to brief reports from the dioceses. The diocesan representatives shared developments, experiences, concerns and priorities from their respective regions, providing a broad perspective on issues affecting the Catholic community across Karnataka.
Mr. Roy Castelino, President, KRCTT, addressed the gathering on the vision, objectives and formation of Catholic Think Tanks at the diocesan level. He expressed satisfaction over the progress made in establishing Catholic Think Tanks in several dioceses and noted that the remaining dioceses had initiated the process of identifying representatives and would proceed towards completing their formation.
The President also presented an overview of the diocesan reports and emphasised the importance of systematic documentation, preparedness, effective communication and coordinated response to emerging situations. He stressed the need for continued networking and collaboration among diocesan Think Tanks.
Focus on Community and Minority Concerns
Following the tea break, Mr. Lucas Antony Kedari, Chairman, Minority Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCCI), Pune, addressed the gathering. His presentation focused on the importance of networking, entrepreneurship and promoting business within the community. He also highlighted the significance of economic empowerment, enterprise development, community networking and constructive engagement.
Rev. Dr M. C. Rajan, National Secretary for Justice, Peace and Development, CBCI, addressed the gathering from a national perspective. He emphasized the importance of establishing Legal Cells in all dioceses to ensure timely assistance and appropriate intervention in situations requiring legal support, particularly during times of crisis.
The Bishops thereafter deliberated on various concerns relating to minorities in their respective dioceses. The discussion enabled the sharing of ground-level experiences and highlighted areas requiring greater attention, coordination and appropriate action.
Way Forward
The concluding deliberations focused on the future direction and priorities of the Karnataka Regional Catholic Think Tank. The discussions underlined the need for continued dialogue, networking, documentation, collaboration and coordinated initiatives among the dioceses.
A minute of silence was observed in memory of the reposed soul of Mr. Thomas Chandy, former Governing Body member, and other members associated with the Regional Catholic Think Tank.
Mr. Anthony Mendonca, Vice President, KRCTT, proposed the vote of thanks. Bishop Sebastian Adayantharath, Bishop of Mandya, delivered the grace before the meal.
The formal programme concluded with the National Anthem, followed by a networking and fellowship lunch.
The AGM served as an important platform bringing together the Church leadership and diocesan representatives of Karnataka for faith-based dialogue, collaborative thinking and collective engagement for the common good.
The participation of all 13 Bishops, two Auxiliary Bishops and diocesan delegates from all 13 dioceses gave the AGM a significant regional character and reaffirmed the importance of continued cooperation, communication and coordinated engagement within the Catholic community of Karnataka.