Fr. Shohag Gabil, C.S.C., is a first-year doctoral student in Theology at the University of Notre Dame, focusing on World Religions and the World Church. A native of a remote village in northeastern Bangladesh, he has been ordained a Catholic priest in the Congregation of Holy Cross since completing his Master of Divinity at Notre Dame and his formation program at Moreau Seminary in 2021. After two years of pastoral ministry among the Garo tribe in Bangladesh, Fr. Gabil returned to Notre Dame for a Master of Theological Studies, graduating in May 2025.
His academic interests center on the encounter between faith and culture, particularly the growth and challenges of Christianity among the Garo and Khasi peoples—two matrilineal minority tribes in Bangladesh. Having ministered in Corpus Christi Parish in Jalchatra, Tangail, Bangladesh he witnessed firsthand how Christianity has transformed individual and communal life while raising profound theological questions about identity, culture, and inculturation.
Fr. Gabil’s research explores the history and mission of the Holy Cross among the Garo tribe, the interaction between Christianity and the indigenous religion Sangsarek, and the theological implications of cultural expressions such as the Wangala harvest festival. His studies are inspired by mentors such as Fr. Paulinus Odozor, C.S.Sp., Fr. Paul Kollman, C.S.C., and Fr. Emmanuel Katongole, who have shaped his vision of global Christianity and intercultural theology.
Through his doctoral work, Fr. Gabil aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the Catholic Church’s mission and identity in Bangladesh, as well as to support theological education and pastoral formation in his home country.