India: CCBI Hosts 7th National Conference in Vailankanni

The 7th National Conference of Women was held at the Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Vailankanni, Tamil Nadu, from 29 September to 1 October. The event, organized by the CCBI Commission for Women, brought together more than 1,400 women from 77 dioceses across India.

This year’s gathering was enriched by the spirit of Jubilee 2025, Pilgrims of Hope. It offered women the opportunity to step away from their homes and daily responsibilities, to pray, celebrate culture and traditions, and experience fellowship. A key highlight was the commemoration of the first year of the Pastoral Plan’s implementation.

The conference opened with the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Oswald Cardinal Gracias, Archbishop Emeritus of Bombay, who praised women’s invaluable contributions to the life and mission of the Church. The conference was formally inaugurated by Bishop Kishor K. Kujur, Chairman of the CCBI Commission for Women and Bishop of Rourkela. The presence of the local ordinary, Bishop Sagayaraj of Thanjavur, along with several bishops, priests, and religious, added solemnity to the occasion.

Throughout the sessions, speakers emphasized the vital role of women in transforming both the Church and society. Participants were encouraged to lead with courage, spread the Gospel, and bring hope to their communities. Reflections on Women in the Bible, especially Mary’s steadfast support for Jesus, highlighted the power of faith, perseverance, and devotion. The discourse affirmed that women, as agents of faith and resilience, are called to inspire, heal, and transform the nation.

Recognizing the diversity of participants, including a significant number of tribal Catholic women form the north, sessions were conducted in both Hindi and English. Resource persons guided reflections, drawing lessons of strength, leadership, and witness from the lives of biblical women.

The programme featured a variety of cultural and spiritual activities: a light-and-sound presentation on Vailankanni, a video on the violence in Manipur, and greetings from the Vatican Dicastery. Cultural evenings showcased traditional dances and the Jubilee Year theme song, while a special presentation depicted the life and martyrdom of Sr. Rani Maria through the film Face of the Faceless. Reflection on the Manipur crisis led to the launch of a new initiative supporting 20 women towards economic stability.

Diocesan women’s commissions displayed their success stories through creative exhibits, inspiring others to strengthen women’s mission in the Church. On the final day, the National Council of the CCBI Commission for Women facilitated evaluation sessions, helping diocesan commissions reflect on their functioning and identify areas for growth.

A unifying moment of prayer came through the Holy Rosary along the Holy Path, affirming the spirit of pilgrimage and hope guiding the conference. Gratitude was expressed to the Rector and priests of the Velankanni Shrine Basilica for their generosity and constant support, which made this large gathering possible.

The 7th National Conference of the CCBI Commission for Women was a moment of celebration, deep reflection, and renewed commitment, empowering women to continue shaping the life of the Church and society in India.