Pastoral Plan

A Vision for the Diocese

The Diocese of Mysore is called to be a missionary, servant, and prophetic Church — one that brings the joy of the Gospel to every home, every street, and every periphery within its territory. Guided by the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, the apostolic exhortations of successive pontiffs, and the pastoral wisdom of our local synodal consultations, the Diocese has identified the following priority areas for the coming years.

"The Church which 'goes forth' is a community of missionary disciples who take the first step, who are involved and supportive, who bear fruit and rejoice." — Pope Francis, Evangelii Gaudium, §24

Priority Areas

1. Evangelisation and Mission

Every baptised Christian is, by virtue of baptism, a missionary disciple. The Diocese is committed to renewing the missionary fervour of its faithful through parish-based mission groups, outreach to the unchurched, and inter-diocesan missionary collaboration. Special attention will be given to first proclamation (kerygma) in areas where the Gospel has not yet taken root.

2. Formation and Catechesis

A formed people of God is the foundation of a living Church. The Diocese will invest in the formation of catechists, lay leaders, and parish pastoral council members; strengthen sacramental preparation programmes (Baptism, Confirmation, Marriage); and promote ongoing adult faith formation through small Christian communities, Bible study groups, and retreats.

3. Social Outreach and Care for the Poor

Following the example of Christ who came "not to be served but to serve" (Mark 10:45), the Diocese through its Caritas and social welfare institutions will continue to prioritise the poorest and most vulnerable: tribal communities, migrant workers, persons with disabilities, and those affected by drought, floods, or unemployment. Integral human development — care for both body and soul — remains a hallmark of our pastoral identity.

4. Youth and Young Adult Ministry

Young people are not merely the future of the Church — they are its present. The Diocese will create spaces of encounter, formation, and service for youth and young adults through the Diocesan Youth Commission, Diocesan Youth Festivals, World Youth Day pilgrimages, and leadership development programmes.

5. Family and Marriage Ministry

The family is the domestic Church — the first school of faith, love, and virtue. The Diocesan Marriage Tribunal, together with the Family Life Commission, will provide enriched marriage preparation programmes, accompaniment for families in crisis, and celebration of family spirituality through the parish community.

6. Ecumenism and Interreligious Dialogue

In the pluralistic context of Karnataka, the Church in Mysore is committed to respectful dialogue with our brothers and sisters of other Christian traditions, as well as with the Hindu, Muslim, and Jain communities who are our neighbours. Collaborative service projects, shared social initiatives, and forums for dialogue will strengthen the bonds of mutual understanding and peace.

Implementation and Review

The Pastoral Plan will be implemented through the diocesan commissions, deaneries, and parish pastoral councils. An annual review will be conducted by the Bishop's Council to assess progress, address challenges, and renew commitments. The full text of the Pastoral Plan document, with specific objectives and indicators, is available from the Diocesan Chancery.