Bangalore October 27, 2023 (CCBI): The 300 women leaders from the 132 dioceses of the Latin Catholic Church in India made a commitment during the 5th annual conference of the CCBI Women’s Commission held from October 21-24, 2023, at Nava Spurti Kendra, Bangalore. They pledged to increase their active participation in the Church’s activities and work collectively towards transforming the Church in India into a more synodal Church.
The annual conference was inaugurated by Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore, who lauded the women for their collective efforts during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also commended them for actively participating in election-related activities, which contributed to the election of a government with a people-friendly and progressive outlook.
Bishop Kishore Kumar Kujur, who serves as the Chairman of the CCBI Commission for Women and is the Bishop of Rourkela, presided over the meeting. He provided insights into the pivotal role of women in building the Church in India. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, the Deputy Secretary General, delivered the keynote address.
The conference commenced with a Holy Mass on Saturday, October 21, 2023. Ms. Priya Francis, the Secretary of the Bangalore Archdiocese, extended a warm welcome to the delegates from various parts of India. Throughout the conference, women leaders from across the country showcased their talents through cultural events and stalls.
During the conference, 74 participants were selected to represent 71 dioceses, and they engaged in the Strategic Planning of the CCBI. The conference focused on the theme of “Pilgrims of hope for a synodal church” and received guidance from Rev. Fr. Joseph Xavier S.J. This theme underscored the collective journey towards building a more participatory and inclusive church community in India.
Sr. Lidwin Fernandes, the Executive Secretary for the Commission for Women, expressed her appreciation for the participants’ active involvement in identifying and addressing situations that empower women in the Church and society.
Fr. Vignan Das, Associate Director, Communio, Rev. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, the convenor for the 2025 Jubilee celebrations, and Rev. Dr. Cyril, Coordinator CCBI Media Apostolate provided brief explanations of the current initiatives undertaken by their respective commissions and departments.
Rev. Sr Lidwin Fernandes, UFS
Executive Secretary, Commission for Women