26 Women Leaders from India Participate in FABC Congress in Malaysia

Penang, Malaysia 28 November 2025: Twenty-six women leaders from across India, representing the CCBI, are taking part in the Great Pilgrimage of Hope in Penang, Malaysia. This is the largest group of women delegates attending the Congress send by a country, showing the growing role of women in the Church and in society.

Sr Lidwin Fernandes UFS, Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Women, said the participation of so many women is a sign of change. She noted that giving women space in international gatherings helps them grow as leaders. “When women step into these global meetings, they return with new strength. They become more committed to the work of nation-building and to the mission of the Church in India,” she said.

Young Catholic leader Anupama Rose Minj from Ranchi, Jharkhand, shared her joy. She said this opportunity has opened new doors for her. “The CCBI believes in young women like us. Being chosen for this historic event is a blessing. Meeting leaders from different Asian countries fills me with hope,” she said.

Dr Julie Rose, a medical practitioner from Delhi, spoke about how the Congress touched her heart. “Everything was new for me. I felt the richness of the Asian Church in every moment. The diversity amazed me, yet the unity in faith made me feel at home. We stand together because we belong to Jesus,” she said.

Anupama Raymond, a lay leader from Bihar, described her experience with deep emotion. “Celebrating Holy Mass with hundreds of bishops, priests, and lay leaders was overwhelming. Their faith and simplicity touched me. I felt God’s presence in a very personal way,” she shared.

Sr Ranjana Tirkey from Jharkhand said this gathering is a grace-filled moment that helps her deepen her faith. Listening to the stories and traditions of people from different cultures, she feels enriched and more committed to her mission.

The Indian delegation continues to make its presence felt in Penang, carrying the voice, strength, and dreams of women who are shaping the future of the Church in India. The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) has sent a group of 76 delegates, making it the largest national team at the event.

By Catholic Connect Reporter