KRCBC Diocesan Secretaries Meet to Advance Inclusion for the Differently Abled

Bangalore | June 20, 2025: In a significant step toward building a more inclusive Church, Diocesan Secretaries for the Commission for the Differently Abled from across Karnataka convened at Subodhana, the Regional Pastoral Centre in Bangalore, on June 20, 2025. The gathering focused on reviewing the implementation of the Pastoral Plan for the Differently Abled and exploring strategies to deepen the Church’s commitment to the spiritual and social integration of persons with disabilities.

The highlight of the meeting was the concluding address by His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore. In a deeply inspiring reflection, he emphasized the Church’s moral and pastoral responsibility towards the differently abled. He outlined five core focus areas:

1. Pastoral and Spiritual Care – Encouraging parishes to ensure accessibility, assist with mobility to the church, and foster active involvement of persons with disabilities in liturgical and community life.
2. Inclusive Education and Employment – Promoting inclusive education in Church-run institutions and facilitating skill-based, dignified employment opportunities.
3. Support for Parents, Guardians, and Catechists – Recognizing caregiver fatigue and the need for emotional and spiritual accompaniment, with suggestions for organizing retreats and support programs.
4. Participation in Social and Public Life – Calling on the community, especially youth, to ensure full civic and ecclesial inclusion of persons with disabilities.
5. Networking and Collaboration – Urging stronger coordination with other Church commissions and civil society organizations for a holistic approach to inclusion.

Earlier in the day, Ms. Estelle D’Souza, Regional Secretary for the Commission, welcomed the participants and provided an overview of the journey so far. She introduced the Action Plan Matrix, a practical roadmap for dioceses to effectively implement the Pastoral Plan at the grassroots level.

Fr. Anil Prasad, Regional Coordinator of KRPPIC, outlined the vision and structure of the KRCBC Pastoral Plan, reinforcing the importance of contextual and diocesan-level commitment.

A key input session was delivered by Mr. Vijay Kant, a pioneering disability rights advocate. He offered insights into government schemes, legal provisions, and welfare entitlements, urging Church leaders to actively engage with public systems to better serve the needs of the differently abled.

The meeting also featured diocesan sharing sessions, during which each representative presented their initiatives, challenges, and success stories, fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual learning.

The day began with a reflective prayer and brought together a committed group of Church leaders, pastoral workers, and advocates. Their shared vision: to ensure that persons with disabilities are not merely accommodated, but are welcomed, valued, and empowered within the life of the Church.

This gathering marked a renewed and resolute commitment to building a Church that truly reflects the inclusive love of Christ.

— Reported by Estelle D’Souza