Bhopal Archdiocese Strengthens Women's Leadership Through Training Programme

Bhopal, April 28, 2026: In a significant step towards empowering women in the Church, the Women Commission of the Archdiocese of Bhopal organised a two-day Training of Trainers (TOT) programme on April 25 and 26, equipping women leaders to play a more active role in parish life and ministry.

The programme brought together nearly 50 women representatives from parishes across the deaneries of Bhopal, Narmadapuram-Harda, and Sehore. Designed to nurture leadership at the grassroots, the initiative focused on enhancing participants' skills, deepening their understanding of their roles, and preparing them to serve as resource persons within their local communities.

The diverse participation from multiple deaneries reflected a growing commitment within the archdiocese to strengthen women's involvement in the Church's mission and pastoral outreach.

The training concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Bishop Durairaj of Bhopal. During the Mass, participants presented their annual action plan to the Archbishop, outlining strategies for implementing the programme's objectives in their respective parishes.

Addressing the gathering, Bishop Durairaj encouraged the women to translate their plans into concrete action at the parish level. He commended the organisers for conducting a well-structured programme that ensured broad representation and active participation from across the archdiocese.

Participants described the workshop as both enriching and inspiring. They expressed gratitude for the opportunity and pledged to put their learning into practice, fostering greater collaboration, leadership, and service in their parish communities.

The sessions were facilitated by Sr. Lidwin Fernandes, National Executive Secretary of the CCBI Women Commission, together with members of the Archdiocesan Women Commission Executive Committee, who guided the participants through a comprehensive and spiritually grounded formation process.

By Binsy George, President