India: CCBI Women’s Commission Opens Eighth National Conference in Karnataka

The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) Commission for Women opened its eighth National Conference, Mahilotsava 2026, on October 18 at the Divine Call Centre in Mulki, near Mangaluru in Karnataka, southwestern India, according to Catholic Connect. The gathering brings together delegates from dioceses across India to promote women’s dignity, inclusion and social justice.

Held under the theme “Women in Communion | Women for a Just World,” the conference aims to strengthen women’s participation in Church life and promote solidarity and justice in society.

Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, president of the CCBI, inaugurated the conference. Bishop Kishor Kumar Kujur, chairman of the CCBI Commission for Women, and Bishop Antonis Bara, a member of the commission, attended alongside religious and other representatives.

The inaugural program featured cultural performances reflecting India’s regional diversity. Delegates presented folk songs and dances representing their dioceses, while participants from Chhattisgarh and Odisha showcased traditional songs and tribal dances.

In his address, Bishop Kujur highlighted women’s dignity, wisdom and contributions to families, communities and the Church. He described the conference as an opportunity to recognize their achievements and encourage greater participation in community life.

Cardinal Ferrão delivered the keynote address, followed by cultural presentations from representatives of the dioceses of Kannur, Mangaluru and Udupi, all in Karnataka.

The conference forms part of the Church’s synodal journey and the implementation of Pastoral Plan Mission 2033. It also recognizes the work of diocesan resource teams in developing grassroots initiatives across deaneries, parishes and village communities.

The gathering honored individuals for their charitable service and community work, including those who had demonstrated courage in defending their communities and the Church.

One initiative highlighted at the conference was Mathronnothi, launched by the Mangaluru Diocesan Commission for Women to support single mothers. The program also featured the presentation of a ₹1 crore endowment fund established by John Samuel in memory of his mother, Rosy Samuel.

The inaugural program concluded with a vote of thanks and the opening of an exhibition showcasing women’s skills, enterprises and community initiatives.

Through Mahilotsava 2026, the CCBI Commission for Women seeks to strengthen grassroots efforts and promote a Church and society grounded in women’s dignity, solidarity and justice.