"The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things, but the one who inspires others to do great things through humble service."

The National Biblical Catechetical and Liturgical Centre (NBCLC), Bengaluru, organized the Religious Leadership Training Course for Formators and Superiors from 27 July to 3 August 2026 under the theme "Advanced Leadership Skills for Effective Religious and Pastoral Ministry." The eight-day programme brought together 57 participants from 23 religious congregations, offering them an enriching opportunity to deepen their leadership, pastoral, and administrative competencies for the mission of the Church.

The course commenced with a prayerful inaugural session and featured presentations by experienced resource persons who addressed contemporary challenges in religious leadership. Major themes included ethics and moral issues in religious life from the canonical perspective, safeguarding children and vulnerable persons, prevention of workplace harassment, psycho-spiritual maturity during mid-life, and fostering harmonious relationships between younger and senior members of religious communities.

Participants reflected on mission-oriented leadership in the Indian context, the Golden Rules of Leadership inspired by the Second Vatican Council and the teachings of Pope Francis, and the call to servant leadership rooted in synodality, collaboration, participation, and shared responsibility. Sessions on women’s empowerment and gender justice encouraged participants to promote human dignity, equality, and inclusive leadership within the Church and society.

The programme concluded with an inspiring reflection on empowered leadership, inviting participants to lead with vision, integrity, compassion, and hope. Interactive sessions, group discussions, and moments of fellowship fostered spiritual renewal, mutual enrichment, and practical learning.

The valedictory programme included the distribution of certificates to all participants. They returned to their respective ministries with renewed enthusiasm, strengthened leadership skills, and a deeper commitment to serving their religious communities and the Church with competence, compassion, and integrity.

"Leadership in religious life is not about authority but about becoming a faithful witness who serves, empowers, and accompanies others on the journey of God's mission."