Bareilly: The Catholic Church in India has once again underscored its deep and enduring commitment to persons with disabilities during the 12th National Conference of the Association of Catholic Rehabilitation Centers, held from April 16 to 19 at the Suchetna Bareilly Diocesan Social Service Centre.
Bringing together nearly 140 participants including caregivers, religious members, and professionals from across the country the four-day conference revolved around the theme “Caregivers are Peacemakers.” The gathering served as a powerful platform to recognise and strengthen the role of Catholic institutions and frontline caregivers in fostering dignity, inclusion, and renewed hope among differently abled individuals.
Presiding over the inaugural session, Cardinal Antony Poola commended the tireless efforts of priests, religious, and lay collaborators dedicated to the service of children with disabilities. He described them as a source of pride for the Church, highlighting their often-unnoticed sacrifices and lifelong commitment. According to him, their service embodies the compassionate presence of Christ among the most vulnerable sections of society. He also expressed support for a proposal to bring the association under the umbrella of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, a step expected to enhance coordination and expand outreach efforts nationwide.
In his keynote address, Archbishop Anil Joseph Thomas Couto reflected on the ministry to persons with disabilities as an integral part of the Church’s mission. Acknowledging the significant growth of the association over the past 13 years, he encouraged members to continue their work with renewed zeal and deeper faith.
Echoing similar sentiments, Archbishop Raphy Manjaly praised caregivers for restoring dignity and hope to countless individuals and families. He noted that their compassionate outreach contributes to building a more humane and inclusive society.
Currently, the association encompasses over 300 member institutions across India, offering services to both children and adults with physical, visual, hearing, and intellectual disabilities. These centres play a crucial role in providing education, rehabilitation, and opportunities that enable fuller participation in society.
The conference was further enriched by moving personal testimonies. Sr Mercy Lytt, who has dedicated more than two decades to working with children with intellectual disabilities, shared her profound experiences of receiving unconditional love through her ministry. Similarly, Sr Anne Jose recounted inspiring stories of resilience, including that of a young woman born without hands who overcame immense challenges to learn driving.
In addition to these testimonies, participants actively engaged in discussions, workshops, and knowledge-sharing sessions aimed at improving the quality of care and rehabilitation services across Catholic institutions.
As the conference drew to a close, it left participants with a renewed sense of purpose. The gathering reaffirmed caregivers as true witnesses of Christ’s love and as instruments of peace in society. Through their unwavering dedication, patience, and compassion, the Church continues to embody the Gospel message by uplifting and empowering persons with disabilities.