Indian Theologians Elect Woman as President for First Time

Pune, October 09, 2025— The Indian Theological Association (ITA) has broken new ground by electing Sister Evelyn Monteiro, of the Sisters of the Cross of Chavanod, as its new president. This marks the first time in the association’s history that a woman will head the body, a move hailed as a significant step for gender equality within the Indian church.

Sister Evelyn, a respected professor of theology with decades of teaching experience, previously served as the ITA’s vice president. Known for her scholarship and gravitas, she brings credibility to a role long dominated by men. Delegates at the ITA’s annual convention said her election reflected a growing recognition of the vital contribution of women to theological discourse in India.

Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Field

Theologian and social commentator Astrid Lobo told Catholic Connect that Evelyn’s leadership is “both symbolic and practical.” She pointed out that Evelyn possesses “the gravitas necessary for a woman’s voice to be heard in what is still a male-dominated field,” and urged her to make the most of that advantage.

Until now, women have rarely been considered for the ITA’s top post. Evelyn’s predecessor, Dr Kochurani Abraham, had served as vice president but was not nominated by the Past Presidents for election to the presidency, highlighting the hurdles women still face in church leadership.

The Prophetic Challenge

Observers note that Evelyn’s greatest challenge will be one faced by theologians everywhere: to be prophetic. “Prophets are usually controversial figures, disturbing the status quo and speaking truth to power,” Lobo explained. “But to effect change they also need to be accepted by the hierarchy. Navigating this tension can be difficult.”

For feminist theologians in particular, Evelyn represents hope. Many will expect her to be vocal about pressing issues such as gender equality in the church, justice for survivors of clergy sexual abuse, and the development of a theology of priesthood that emphasises servanthood over hierarchical power.

A Turning Point

Her election comes at a time when theological scholarship in India is grappling with urgent questions of secularisation, social justice, and interfaith engagement. With her academic authority and leadership experience, Evelyn is seen as well placed to guide the ITA into deeper dialogue with these challenges.

Still, as Lobo cautioned, symbolic shifts must be accompanied by structural change. For Evelyn, the task ahead will be to transform her historic appointment into concrete progress — from broadening space for women theologians to encouraging inclusive theological education across the country.

Looking Forward

As she begins her first term, expectations are high. Evelyn Monteiro’s presidency is not just about breaking a glass ceiling; it is about shaping a theological culture that values courage, equality, and justice.

If she succeeds, her election in October 2025 may be remembered as a watershed moment in Indian theology — a moment when women’s voices not only gained a platform but began to reshape the conversation itself.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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