CCBI Women’s Conference Promotes Dignity, Inclusion and Social Justice

Mangaluru, October 18, 2026: The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) Commission for Women inaugurated its eighth National Conference, Mahilotsava 2026, at the Divine Call Centre in Mulki, Mangaluru, on Sunday, bringing together delegates from dioceses across India to promote women’s dignity, inclusion and a more just society.

Held under the theme “Women in Communion | Women for a Just World”, the conference seeks to strengthen women’s role in Church life and advance solidarity and social justice.

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

The programme opened with cultural performances showcasing India’s regional diversity. Delegates presented folk songs and dances representing their dioceses, while participants from Chhattisgarh and Odisha welcomed the gathering with traditional songs and tribal dances.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Through Mahilotsava 2026, the CCBI Commission for Women aims to strengthen grassroots initiatives and promote a Church and society rooted in dignity, solidarity and justice.

By Catholic Connect Reporter