Conference to examine role of women in Church and society

The Catholic Council of India comprising bishops, clergy, religious and lay people, will hold a conference on 1–3 December in the diocese of Ranchi, in the north Indian state of Jharkhand.

The conference will concentrate on the role and charism of women in the church and in society.

Expecting over 500 participants, the meeting will discuss the topics related to the theme as well as the presence of the Church in society, minority rights, relations with government, socio–economic related issues of Catholic communities, violence against Christians and Christian structures and property.

The meeting will be presided by CCI president Cardinal Telesphore Toppo.

"We are aware that rapid change calls for renewed vision and formation of clergy, religious and lay people in keeping with the Gospel and with respect for the rich and varied religious–cultural traditions of their country,” quoted an independent Catholic news agency, indicating the importance of the conference.

“Challenges include globalisation, inter–ethnic conflict, struggle for justice for the poor and oppressed people, movements to promote respect for women, the environment and human rights.”

“To respond as Christians to these challenges, it is necessary to turn to God and to rediscover the "prophetic" dimension of life," it added.