The Regional Meeting of the CCBI’s Women’s Commission commenced with a solemn Holy Mass on the 31st of May, fostering a spirit of unity and reflection among all participants.

It was privileged to be graced by the esteemed presence of the Chairman of Agra Region, Most Rev. Bishop Joseph Kallarackal, the National Secretary Sr. LidwinFernandes, Sr. Deeptiand the Regional Secretary Ms. Pancy Thomas. Their attendance underscored the vital role the Commission plays in advocating for the rights, dignity, and leadership of women within both the Church and the broader community.

The inauguration of the Agra regional meeting of the Women’s Commission commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, marking the beginning of a significant platform for dialogue and empowerment. The event brought together women representatives from the Agra region to discuss pressing issues concerning women’s rights and leadership.

Bishop Joseph Kallarackal opened the meeting with a heartfelt welcome address with a message emphasizing the spiritual foundation of the Commission’s work, encouraging members to continue fostering unity, compassion, and empowerment among women. In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Agra region, Bishop Kallarackal emphasized the importance of building a pipeline of women leaders across sectors. “Empowering women to lead is not just about representation—it’s about transformation,” he said

Dr.Sr.Rani, MSA delivered a session on Mental health of women.Women face unique mental health challenges influenced by biological, psychological, social, and economic factors. Addressing these challenges is vital for the well-being of families and communities across our region. At the regional meeting, women leaders from Allahabad delivered inspiring addresses focused on the Mental health of Women.

National Secretary, Sr.Lidwin along with the National Resource person Sr.Deepti took charge of day two. This year’s meeting placed a strong emphasis on “Training Women into Leaders”, highlighting the need to equip women with the skills, confidence, and opportunities required to take on leadership roles in society, governance, and grassroots movements. “Our women hold immense strength and potential. This meeting is a step toward recognizing, nurturing, and empowering every woman to lead and inspire change in her community.”

— Sr.LidwinFernandes, National Secretary

Throughout the three-days program, participants were engaged in discussions, and interactive sessions designed by Sr. Lidwinto share best practicesand community-level strategies for advancing women’s leadership.The event served as a vital step towards strengthening the role of women in decision-making processes and ensuring gender equality in public and private spheres.

Adding a unique dimension to the event, diocesan reports were displayed on charts and assessed by representatives from other dioceses. This peer-review approach encouraged transparency, mutual learning, and a spirit of accountability. It allowed participants to reflect on shared challenges and innovative solutions implemented across different regions.

The event saw active participation from women leaders, commission members, all committed to fostering inclusive and sustainable progress for women. To ensure the effective execution of the leadership training strategy, participants jointly prepared a Pastoral Plan along with a Diocesan Planner. These tools are intended to guide local-level implementation, offering clear goals, timelines, and responsibilities to foster women’s leadership within church and community structures. The sessions were marked by active participation, shared prayer,exercise on spiritual conversation and a deep commitment to building a future where women are recognized as vital agents of change.

The Regional Secretary presented a brief report outlining recent achievements and upcoming initiatives.”The Regional Secretary delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the valuable contributions of all participants and expressing appreciation for the successful conduct of the regional meeting.”

Diocese of Jaipur Women’s Commission was recognized and awarded for their dedicated hard work and impactful efforts in the regional meeting. This accolade highlights their commitment to empowering women and advancing community welfare in the region.

In a heartfelt gesture of appreciation, the Bishop of Jaipur Diocese presented tokens of gratitude to all the participants of the Regional Meeting. His warm words and personal acknowledgment of each individual’s contribution added a dignified and memorable close to the gathering.The presentation not only recognized the efforts of every attendee but also highlighted the spirit of unity and collaboration that defined the meeting. It was a moment of grace and gratitude that left a lasting impression on all present.

The meeting concluded with renewed energy, strengthened networks, and a collective resolve to continue working towards inclusive leadership across all levels of society.

Ms.Neelam Chopra
National Media Coordinator

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REPORT

St. Xavier’s Parish Women cell
Activity of March 2024

8th March
Visit to Mother Teresa home, Pratap Nagar
On the occasion of International Women’s day ,the women of St.Xavier’s parish visited the Mother Teresa home, Pratap Nagar to spend some quality time with the special patients . A bus was arranged by the Parish priest for the parish women to commute .It was motivating to witness the dedication and compassion of the MC sisters .The parish women donated diapers ,veggies and some other needs of the patients . After spending few hours there ,we can proudly say that Mother Teresa's mission lives on, in Mother’s house .

24th March
Lent is that sacred time when we remember the depths of God’s love for us expressed in the mysteries of Passion, Death and Resurrection. A Lenten recollection and Adoration was organized by the Women cell of the parish .It was conducted by Sr.Marie James of M C home,C scheme.This recollection gave time to reflect on these mysteries and give thanks for the great and merciful love of God for us. Through prayer, reflection and silence, we hope to find renewal and meaning in our own experiences of death and life and let Jesus teach us what it means to be anchored in love and live in hope. During the Recollection which resounded with the invitation to “Pause” in order to look and contemplate, to “See” the real face of Jesus and to “Return” without fear, to experience the healing and reconciling tenderness of God.

Sr.Marie said the season of Lent is a time “to remedy the dissonant chords of our Christian life.

Breakfast and Lunch arrangements were made by the Women cell of the parish .

REPORT

St. John the Baptist Church Lalarpura Women Cell – March Activity

“A Strong Woman is one who feels deeply and loves fiercely. Her tears flow as abundantly as her laughter. She is both soft and powerful, is both practical and spiritual. In her essence, a strong woman is a gift to the world”.

The Women Cell of St. John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura on 17th March 2024, organized a special felicitation programme for those women who have made significant contributions in their respective fields.

The liturgy for the day was conducted by the members of the women cell followed by felicitation programme. As a small token of appreciation, the achievers were presented mementos and gifts by Rev Fr. Moorthilal and Fr. Georgish Bitto. The achievers were: Ms. Mercy Thomas, Ms. Ritty Francis and Ms. Aishwarya Dexter.

The felicitation event for women in their professions was a resounding success, highlighting the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women in the workforce. It served as a reminder of the valuable contribution that women make to society and underscored the Church’s commitment to supporting and empowering women in their professional endeavors.

Shiny Jobin
Secretary
Women Cell of St. John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura

Report - St. Xavier Parish 2023 24

Annual General body Meeting on 8 March 2023.
March - Women's day Celebration on Parish level. (Total Liturgy by W.C)
April - Visit to Missionary of Charity home with vegetables and Cash on Good Friday.
May 31st - Ending the month of May by WC Pysam - sponsored by WC.
The Parish women cell organised a free medical health check up camp on the occasion.
July 31st - Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyala Active participation of the WC and presentation of token gifts to the Jesuits priests.
August 27th - Participation in the Feast Day celebration of St. Monica at Pastoral Centre, Ghat Gate.
Won two prizes , first was for most vibrant stall and second was for the maximum number of women participants from our parish (55)
September - A health care camp was organised.
8th September - Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and girl child day celebrations. All the girl children of the Parish were given a token gift by the women cell. Delicious payasam was served to all.
October 22 nd - Organised a medical Camp with the co-operation of doctors and medical team from Fortis Hospital.
October 29th - Active participation in the liturgy. Women Commission gave token gifts to the first Communicants.
December 3rd - Feast of Saint Francis Xavier . Women Commission gave gifts to all the Jesuit priests and took part in the liturgy.
January 7th - Parish get together. Entire function including snacks and lunch was taken care by women Commission including most of the prizes in sports and games.
March 5th - The Parish celebrated International Women's Day in the church on March 5th. The liturgy was conducted by the Parish women cell . The women of Parish had put up a stall to raise funds.

St. John the Baptist Church Lalarpura Women Cell – February Activity

Visiting the sick of the church is a practice rooted in compassion and care within many religious communities. Members of the church often visit those who are ill or in need of support to offer comfort, prayer, and practical assistance. These visits can provide emotional solace, spiritual guidance, and a sense of solidarity during challenging times. Visiting the sick of the church is considered a way to fulfill the biblical command to care for one another and show compassion to those who are suffering. It helps to create a sense of community and unity within the church, reminding members that they are not alone in their struggles and that they have a supportive network of fellow believers around them.

The Women Cell of St. John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura on 12th February 2024, visited the sick members of our parish along with Rev. Fr. Moorthilal and Deacon Vinod.

It was a thoughtful and compassionate gesture for members of the women cell to visit the sick members of the church. This act of kindness provides comfort and support to those who may be feeling unwell or in need of companionship. The women cell went and offered prayer for the sick individual. By offering their time and presence, the women demonstrate care and solidarity within the church community. Such visits can help uplift spirits, offer prayers, and show that the church values and supports its members in times of difficulty.

Shiny James
Secretary
Women Cell St. John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura

St. John the Baptist Church Lalarpura Women Cell – January Activity

“Women have been the backbone of mankind’s progress; their unwavering support and contribution helps in shaping a better world for all.”

The Women Cell ofSt. John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura recognizes the significant challenges faced by the widows of our parish, who often find themselves in vulnerable and marginalized positions within society. Recognising the need to support these women, the cellorganised a program aimed at providing ration items to seven widows of our church to ensure their basic needs are met. The widows were called to the church and then essential items were distributed to them byDn. Vinod along with Women CellExecutives.

The provision of ration items for widows by the Women Cell marks a significant step towards empowering and supporting marginalized women of our parish. By addressing their basic needs, the program contributes to their overall well – being and improves their access to nutritious food.

This is the January activity executed by the Women Cell of St.John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura. The ration kits were contributed by the members of women cell.

Shiny James
Secretary
Women Cell St. John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura.

CCBI COMMISSION FOR WOMEN’S REGIONAL MEETING AT JAIPUR