By Matters India Reporter
Vailankanni, Oct 1, 2025: Around 1,400 representatives from 132 Latin rite dioceses in India attended the Jubilee of Women that concluded on October 1 at Vailankanni, Tamil Nadu.
The Commission for Women of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) organized the three-day event at the Basilica of Our Lady of Vailankanni, marking a significant moment of spiritual renewal and empowerment.
Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop Emeritus of Bombay, opened the celebration, which featured liturgical solemnity, theological reflection, and community dialogue, says a CCBI press release.
Archbishop Francis Kalist of Pondicherry-Cuddalore and Bishop Kishore Kumar Kujur of Rourkela, who presided as principal celebrants of the Mass, drew attention to the vital role of women in the Church’s mission.
Bishop James Shekar of Buxar, a resource person, offered insights into pastoral leadership and gender equity.
Father Stephen Alathara, CCBI deputy secretary general in his keynote address stressed the transformative power of women’s witness in the life of the Church and society.
Ursuline Sister Lidwin Fernandes, executive secretary of the CCBI Commission for Women, welcomed the delegates, setting the tone for a gathering rooted in faith, fellowship, and forward-looking vision.
The Commission for women under CCBI and the CCBI officials could explain to the Catholic community in India the TYPE of “spiritual renewal” and the EXTENT of “empowerment” that followed the “Jubilee of women” at Vailankanni.