Concordia

CONCORDIA — A 7-Year Synodal Pastoral Plan

Under the visionary leadership of Bishop Antony Kariyil, the 36th Bishop of the Diocese of Cochin, a comprehensive seven-year pastoral plan has been envisioned to guide the diocese into a future rooted in synodality, collaboration, and spiritual renewal. Inspired by Pope Francis’s call for a synodal Church — one that walks together, listens, and discerns — this action plan has been named CONCORDIA by Bishop Antony himself.

What Does Concordia Mean?

The word Concordia (Latin: con = together, cor = heart) means “hearts together” or “harmony”. It beautifully captures the essence of this pastoral vision — a diocese united in heart, purpose, and mission.

The Concordia plan translates this spirit into action through the motto:

ഹൃദയങ്ങൾ ഒന്നുചേർന്ന് • ഹൃദയപൂർവ്വം • ഹൃദ്യമായി

(Hearts United • Wholeheartedly • With Warmth)

The Vision (2026–2033)

Concordia is a seven-year pastoral plan spanning from August 15, 2026 to 2033. The planning and design phase will be published by August 15, 2026, following thorough consultation and discernment.

By 2033, when the Church celebrates the 2000th anniversary of the Passion and Suffering of Our Lord Jesus Christ, and the Diocese of Cochin marks its 475th Jubilee, we envision a diocese that has been transformed through this pastoral journey — spiritually vibrant, pastorally effective, and deeply united.

Genesis of Concordia

Bishop Antony Kariyil took charge of diocesan responsibilities and, understanding the need for a comprehensive and forward-looking pastoral strategy, envisioned Concordia. The Bishop convened a special meeting on January 13–14, 2026 at the prestigious venue to deliberate on this vision. The esteemed delegates participated actively and submitted their suggestions and proposals to the Bishop.

Religious communities, clergy, and laity were all invited into the discernment process, reflecting the truly synodal character of this initiative.

The Second Concordia

The second-level Concordia will begin on February 1, 2026 with a one-day intensive program at the Alpha Pastoral Centre, Edakochi. This second phase expands the consultation to the wider diocesan community.

To ensure comprehensive representation, the diocese has requested the following delegates from each pastoral unit:

1. Faith Formation Teachers — 2 persons per centre

2. Parish Pastoral Council — 2 members per parish

3. Religious Men and Women — 2 members from convents and monasteries

Consultation & Participation

For the complete realization of this plan, the diocese seeks the opinions and suggestions of every family in the diocese. To collect this feedback accurately, timely, relevantly, and practically, a comprehensive survey will be conducted among families in the February–March 2026 period, at the third level of consultation.

This bottom-up approach ensures that Concordia is not merely a top-down directive but a truly participatory vision born from the lived experiences, hopes, and aspirations of the faithful.

Timeline & Milestones

• January 13–14, 2026 — First Concordia: Initial planning meeting with delegates

• February 1, 2026 — Second Concordia: Expanded consultation at Alpha Pastoral Centre, Edakochi

• February–March 2026 — Third level: Family-wide survey and feedback collection

• August 15, 2026 — Official publication of the Concordia pastoral plan

• 2026–2033 — Implementation of the seven-year pastoral plan across all parishes and institutions

• 2033 — Celebration of the 2000th Anniversary of the Passion of Christ and the 475th Jubilee of the Diocese of Cochin

A Message from the Chancellor

The official circular about Concordia was issued by Fr. Johnny Xavier Puthukkatt, Chancellor of the Diocese of Cochin, with a loving appeal to all monsignors, clergy, religious, and faithful to actively participate in this historic pastoral initiative.

The letter emphasizes that Concordia is a reflection of the Bishop’s deep desire to shape the future of the diocese together — listening to every voice, valuing every contribution, and building a Church that truly walks together.

Get Involved

Every member of the Diocese of Cochin — priests, religious, and laity — is invited to be part of this transformative journey. Your voice matters. Your experience matters. Your vision for the future of our diocese matters.

Together, let us build a Church that is synodal, united, and mission-driven — a Church where hearts come together in faith, hope, and love.

ഹൃദയങ്ങൾ ഒന്നുചേർന്ന് • ഹൃദയപൂർവ്വം • ഹൃദ്യമായി

Hearts United • Wholeheartedly • With Warmth