It is with immense gratitude and spiritual joy that we present this report on the Malayalam Laity Seminar held from April 23 rd to 29 th 2025 at NBCLC Bangalore. This spiritually enriching seminar brought together 86 carefully selected lay leaders from 30 dioceses across the Syro-Malabar, Syro- Malankara, and Latin rites, along with 11 dedicated animators.

The primary objective of the seminar was to reflect on the role, responsibilities, and future direction of the laity in the Church, especially within the context of the synodal journey initiated by the Universal Church.

Each day of the seminar began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist and prayer, with spiritually uplifting homilies and reflections led by Fr. Nysson, Assistant Director of NBCLC. In addition, daily Rosaries and Holy Adoration further enriched the spiritual experience of the participants. A special prayer service was held on April 23 rd in remembrance of the late Holy Father, Pope Francis. The Rosary procession on April 26 th was a deeply moving experience for many, strengthening the sense of spiritual community.

Participants were divided into five groups to facilitate discussions and cultural activities. The daily debates offered a platform for critical reflection and exchange of ideas, while the evening cultural programs brought joy, creativity, and camaraderie to the gathering.

Highlights of the Seminar
Day 1–Mission Experience in Arunachal Pradesh.
The seminar commenced with a powerful session on missionary experiences in the Diocese of Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh. Presented by lay missionaries who were themselves past participants of the Malayalam Laity Seminar 2023, this session deeply inspired attendees. Their testimony to faith-driven service in remote and challenging areas served as a shining example of the fruits of previous seminars and set a strong foundation for the week ahead.

Day 2 –Lay Leadership and Socio-Political Engagement.
Dr. K M Francis, retired Professor from St. Thomas College, Thrissur, delivered an engaging session on the laity’s involvement in socio-political life. Emphasizing the Church’s mission beyond its walls, he encouraged participants to embody Gospel values in public life and become active agents of justice, peace, and transformation within society.

Day 3 –Lay Leadership and Youth Animation.
Fr. Pradeep Vazhathadamalayil from the Diocese of Thiruvalla led a dynamic session entered on the Church’s relationship with youth. Stressing the importance of guidance and accompaniment, he invited lay leaders to serve as mentors, empowering young people to grow in faith and leadership.

Day 4 –Catechism, Family Faith Formation and Pro-Life Witness.
Dr. Rejo and Dr. Sonia presented on the pivotal role of catechesis within families—the “domestic Church.” They highlighted the importance of instilling faith-based values from early childhood and emphasized the Church’s unwavering pro-life stance rooted in compassion and reverence for all human life.

Day 5 –Christian Leadership and Modern Management.
Dr. Mareena Mathew, HOD of the Department of MBA, Christ University, Bangalore, provided us with practical and spiritual insights into how modern leadership principles can be harmonized with Gospel values. She offered tools and frameworks that help lay leaders serve more effectively, both within and outside the Church. Her emphasis on servant leadership, ethical management, and collaboration was especially timely for those taking on leadership roles in today’s complex world.

Day 6 –Synodal Accompaniment and Lay Ministry.
Fr. Jiju Arackathara, KRLCC General Secretary, facilitated a deep reflection on synodality, focusing on the need for mutual listening, shared discernment, and relational leadership. His session underscored the importance of journeying together as a Church and the lay leader’s responsibility to accompany others with humility and love.

Day 7 –The Synodal Way of Lay Leadership
The concluding day was graced by the presence of His Excellency Mar Pauly Kannookadan, Chairman of NBCLC and Bishop of the Diocese of Irinjalakuda. In his keynote address, he offered profound insights into the synodal vocation of lay leaders, calling for unity, courage, and Gospel-centered leadership. His blessings, along with the distribution of certificates and commemorative photos, brought the seminar to a meaningful and uplifting close.

Conclusion The Malayalam Laity Seminar 2025 at NBCLC has been a transformative and grace-filled experience. Participants return to their communities with renewed spiritual vigor, deeper theological insight, and strengthened commitment to their baptismal call as lay leaders.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the NBCLC The Director Fr. John Baptist and staff and all the resource persons and every participant who contributed to making this seminar an inspiring and mission-oriented. May the Holy Spirit continue to guide and empower us as we journey together in faith, communion, and service to the Church and the world.