New Edition of National Catechetical Directory Launched in Bangalore
Bangalore, 3 May 2026: The latest version of the National Catechetical Directory, called Fostering of Faith of the Pilgrim People, was launched today at St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences in Bangalore during the CCBI National Synodal Assembly.
The directory was introduced by His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, the President of the CCBI and FABC. The event saw a prominent gathering, including His Eminence Antony Cardinal Poola, Archbishop of Hyderabad; Archbishop Peter Machado, Vice President of CCBI; Archbishop Vincent Aind, Secretary General of CCBI; and Bishop George Palliparambil, SDB, who chairs the Commission for Faith Formation.
Also present were other significant figures like Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of CCBI; Fr. Vijay Machado, the Executive Secretary of the Commission for Faith Formation; Rev. Dr. Gilbert Choondal SDB; and Mr. Nigel Fernandes.
Originally approved by the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelisation in April 2014, this updated version serves as a practical resource, aligning with the universal Directory for Catechesis. It has been revised to incorporate recent Church teachings and societal changes while maintaining its foundational structure.
The comprehensive update was supervised by the CCBI Commission for Faith Formation, which included a dedicated team: Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Rev. Fr. Vijay Machado, Rev. Dr. Gilbert Choondal SDB, Fr. Duming Gonsalves, Fr. Rohit D’Costa, Fr. Dinesh Vasava SDB, Fr. Kumudo Digal SDB, and Sr. Siji Lonan.
Designed for the Indian context, Fostering of Faith of the Pilgrim People provides clear norms, principles, and guidelines for faith formation. It emphasizes the strong connection between catechesis, evangelisation, worship, community, and service. The new edition features engaging illustrations and meaningful quotes from Church sources.
The aim of this directory is to foster unity in sharing the Christian message while respecting the rich cultural diversity within the expression of the Catholic faith. It serves as a valuable resource for bishops, priests, religious, catechists, school principals, catechetical center directors, youth leaders, BEC members, and seminarians.
For inquiries or to obtain copies, you can contact:
Email: publications@ccbi.in; faithformation@ccbi.in
Phone: +91 9886730224
For any further details, please reach out to Fr. Vijay Machado.
