Historic Ranchi Meet Affirms Women as Builders of Church and Society

Ranchi, March 2, 2026 — In a powerful expression of faith and unity, more than 15,000 women from parishes across the archdiocese gathered at the Divine Mother Main Basilica Church, Raja Ulhatu for the 62nd Annual General Assembly of the Ranchi Archdiocesan Catholic Women’s Association, marking one of the largest faith-based women’s gatherings in the region.

The assembly opened with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Bishop Vincent Aind, who also served as chief guest. Women leaders, clergy and participants from diverse backgrounds came together to reflect on the evolving role of Catholic women in the Church and society.

Guided by the themes “The Expectations of the Church from the Mothers of the Catholic Women’s Association” and “Social Challenges of Women in Contemporary Church Life,” the gathering engaged participants in reflection on faith, responsibility and social commitment.

Delivering a keynote reflection, Fr. Francis Minj, SJ addressed the changing realities of the modern world marked by uncertainty and rapid transformation. He emphasised that women carry critical responsibilities within families and society, particularly in times of crisis, even as their contributions often remain unrecognised. Affirming equal human dignity, he described women as educators, caregivers, protectors and essential agents of social change.

Addressing contemporary challenges faced by women in Church life, Ranjeeta Hembrom, President of the Jharkhand Administrative Service Association, urged mothers to take an active role in family formation and moral education. She called on women to remain vigilant about the misuse of mobile technology, cultivate a broad outlook, avoid divisive speech and remain steadfast in faith.

Offering a public perspective, Rajesh Kachhap, MLA of Khijri, noted that economic advancement alone cannot ensure holistic development. He stressed the need for spiritual balance and inner growth as foundations for personal and social wellbeing.

In his homily, Bishop Aind reflected on the Transfiguration of the Lord, underscoring that authentic transformation begins within the human heart. He observed that when women experience spiritual renewal, its influence radiates naturally to families and the wider society.

The scale of participation and the depth of engagement underscored the vitality of Catholic women’s leadership in the region, reaffirming their decisive role in nurturing faith-filled families and contributing to social transformation in the Church and society.

By Fr. Praful Bara

St. Albert’s College Ranchi