Pune: The first-ever Western Region Women’s Commission Convention drew more than 210 women from Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa to the Papal Seminary campus in Pune on November 8–9, marking a significant moment for women’s formation and leadership within the Church. Delegates from 13 dioceses and all three Catholic rites spent two days reflecting on their mission ahead of the Jubilee Year 2025, sharing experiences, and strengthening a common resolve rooted in justice, unity and faith.
The gathering opened with a Eucharistic celebration led by Bishop Bernard Lancy, who invited participants to embrace their responsibility as voices of truth in an increasingly challenging world. He cautioned that silence or passive acceptance in the face of wrongdoing weakens both community life and the wider society, urging women to lean on each other, nurture solidarity and become ‘lights for others’ in difficult moments.
During the formal inauguration, Regional Secretary Sr. Annie reflected on women’s enduring role as “bearers of faith and light,” encouraging deeper listening in families, neighbourhoods, and parishes as part of the ongoing synodal journey. Bishop Lancy, building on this theme, reminded participants that their gifts are essential to advancing unity, safeguarding human dignity and protecting the rights of those denied justice drawing inspiration from Mary’s fearless example.
Delivering one of the convention’s keynote messages, Sr. Asha Paul, National Secretary of the CBCI Commission for Women, urged Christian women to transcend narrow or traditional expectations. She underscored the need for women to claim their place in leadership spaces, speak boldly against injustice and persecution, and ensure their perspectives shape both Church structures and public life.
Participants also visited MAHER, engaging in outreach interactions that highlighted the Commission’s commitment to compassionate service. The evening brought together a series of vibrant cultural presentations that showcased the artistic and cultural richness of the three states represented reflecting the heart and diversity of women’s contributions in the region.
A highlight of the convention was a session led by Raynah Marise, who invited women to revisit the stories of biblical figures such as Miriam, Shiprah and Puah, the daughters of Zelophehad, Ruth, Mary Magdalene and Phoebe. Through their courage, initiative and leadership, these women provided powerful examples of faith-filled action. The session encouraged participants to reclaim these qualities in their own personal and ministry settings.
In a practical session, Sr. Manjula of Ahmedabad Diocese explained the structure and functioning of the Western Region Women’s Commission, urging delegates to focus on building strong parish-level units based on relationship, accountability, unity and transparent leadership. She emphasized outreach, inclusion, and responsible stewardship as essential elements of a vibrant and mission-driven women’s movement.
Over the two-day convention, the participants forged bonds, shared stories of faith and resilience, and strengthened a collective vision for women’s leadership rooted in justice and hope setting a strong tone for their journey into the Jubilee Year 2025.