Siliguri: In a renewed effort to strengthen the Church’s response to the growing menace of human trafficking, a group of women religious from eastern and northeastern India convened in Siliguri for an intensive formation programme focused on building psycho-social strength and spiritual resilience among those engaged in frontline ministry.
The programme, held at the Loyola Pastoral Centre under the Diocese of Bagdogra, centered on the theme “Psycho-Socio-Spiritual Integration and Rejuvenation.” It brought together 27 sisters representing Manipur, Assam, and West Bengal, all actively involved in rescue operations, rehabilitation efforts, and advocacy against human trafficking.
Guided by Fr. John Kennedy and Dr. Pavanbir Kaur, the sessions offered a holistic approach to renewal. Through a blend of reflective exercises, group discussions, and practical learning modules, participants explored emotional healing, psychological balance, and spiritual grounding. Special focus was placed on identifying cognitive distortions and understanding their impact, while also examining the complex social conditions that fuel trafficking networks.
Following the training, the Regional Assembly of the West Bengal Region was conducted in collaboration with the Conference of Religious India (CRI). The assembly drew 64 women religious from across the region, including Regional President Sr. Betsy FCC and Regional Secretary Diana D'Souza BS.
The gathering opened with a powerful tableau staged by students of Holy Cross Convent, Hansqua, portraying urgent social concerns and setting a reflective tone for the proceedings. Welcoming the participants, Sr. Teresa Dorjee urged the sisters to respond to societal suffering with compassion and courage, drawing inspiration from the Gospel image of the Good Samaritan.
Delivering a key address, Bishop Paul Simick highlighted the heightened vulnerability of communities living in tea garden regions and along the Indo-Nepal border—areas frequently targeted by trafficking networks. He commended the courage of women religious who often risk their safety to rescue victims and accompany them toward recovery and reintegration.
In her keynote intervention, Sr. Prema Chowallur described human trafficking as one of the most serious crimes of the modern era, calling for stronger collaboration among religious congregations and Church institutions to protect those at risk.
Offering insights from ground-level ministry, Sr. Claret Lepcha spoke about her work in North Bengal, particularly in addressing child labor and safeguarding vulnerable children. She acknowledged the persistent challenges while reaffirming the unwavering commitment of religious women to stand with the poor, the exploited, and the marginalized.
The programme concluded as both a moment of renewal and a renewed missionary call. It reaffirmed the Church’s enduring commitment to defending human dignity while equipping those engaged in anti-trafficking work with the strength and clarity needed to continue their vital mission.