The CBCI Office for Education and Culture released four new books on education during the concluding session of the 56th National Convention of the All India Association of Catholic Schools (AINACS), held at the Park Regis Convention Centre, Arpora, Goa. The books were unveiled by Bishop Elias Gonsalves of Nagpur, who also serves as the Chairman of the CBCI Office for Education and Culture, in the presence of prominent education leaders and members of the AINACS Executive Committee.

I wanted to write about this event because it reflects how faith-based educational institutions are not just focusing on academics, but also on values, holistic development, and community learning. The CBCI’s continued commitment to advancing Catholic education through research and publications shows a proactive effort to adapt to changing educational needs in India. These publications are more than just books—they are tools designed to inspire educators, administrators, and students alike to create meaningful learning environments rooted in both faith and excellence.

A Landmark Moment in Catholic Education

The book release took place during the final session of the 56th AINACS National Convention, which brought together educators from Catholic institutions across India. The event highlighted the Catholic Church’s enduring contribution to the education sector and its efforts to address modern challenges through innovation and dialogue.

The four books, released under the CBCI Office for Education and Culture, cover diverse themes relevant to educators, school leaders, and students. While specific details of the titles were not shared publicly, each publication aims to strengthen the intellectual, moral, and spiritual foundations of Catholic education in India.

Presiding over the ceremony, Bishop Elias Gonsalves emphasised that education in Catholic institutions must always focus on nurturing the heart and mind together. He reminded educators that true learning goes beyond textbooks—it involves shaping responsible citizens who live with compassion, integrity, and service to others.

Key Dignitaries and Participants

The event was graced by several prominent figures who have played significant roles in Catholic education. Among them were:

• Fr. Shinoj Kizhakkemuryil TOR, President of AINACS
• Fr. Maria Charles, Executive Secretary of the CBCI Office for Education and Culture
• Members of the AINACS Executive Committee

Sr. Ophelia Lobo introduced the new publications and anchored the event. She spoke about the relevance of these books for educators in today’s changing academic and social landscape, noting that they will help teachers blend moral education with modern pedagogy.

The Role of CBCI Office for Education and Culture

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) Office for Education and Culture has long been a guiding force for Catholic schools across the country. It works to ensure that education in Catholic institutions remains value-based, inclusive, and relevant.

The Office not only supports teacher training and leadership development but also regularly publishes educational materials that promote dialogue between faith and contemporary educational practices. These publications help schools align with both national educational policies and Christian values of service, equality, and compassion.

AINACS: Nurturing Faith-Based Education for Six Decades

The All India Association of Catholic Schools (AINACS) has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and growth among Catholic schools for over six decades. Its annual conventions provide a platform for educators to share experiences, explore challenges, and exchange ideas that can strengthen the collective mission of Catholic education in India.

This year’s convention, themed “Renewing the Heart of Catholic Educationists: Standing United in Christ and Faithful in Mission,” encouraged participants to reflect on their calling as educators—not just as professionals but as mentors shaping the moral and spiritual fabric of young minds.

The release of the four books served as a fitting conclusion to the convention, symbolising renewal and intellectual progress within Catholic education.

Commitment to Holistic Education

Catholic institutions have been a vital part of India’s education system, providing quality education to millions of students, irrespective of religion or background. The new books released by the CBCI Office are expected to further this mission by focusing on:

• Value-based education models that foster compassion, discipline, and community spirit
• Teacher training methodologies aligned with 21st-century learning
• Integration of culture and ethics into classroom practices
• Educational leadership strategies to strengthen school management and governance

By publishing these works, the CBCI aims to ensure that Catholic schools remain both spiritually grounded and academically progressive.

Voices of Encouragement

Speaking at the event, Fr. Shinoj Kizhakkemuryil TOR noted that education today faces the dual challenge of rapid technological change and declining moral values. “Catholic schools must respond by creating spaces where learning is not just about marks, but about meaning,” he said.

Fr. Maria Charles added that the books launched reflect years of collective experience and research within the Catholic education network. “These resources will empower teachers to renew their passion and commitment to holistic education,” he said.