Religious Women Strengthen Anti-Trafficking Mission at Siliguri Formation Programme

Siliguri, West Bengal, April 26, 2026: In a significant step towards strengthening the Church's response to human trafficking, religious women from across eastern and northeastern India gathered in Siliguri for a specialised training programme aimed at fostering psycho-social and spiritual resilience among those engaged in anti-trafficking ministry.

Hosted at the Loyola Pastoral Centre in the Diocese of Bagdogra, the programme on "Psycho-Socio-Spiritual Integration and Rejuvenation" brought together 27 religious sisters from Manipur, Assam, and West Bengal, all actively involved in combating human trafficking and supporting survivors.

The sessions were led by Fr. John Kennedy and Dr. Pavanbir Kaur, who guided participants through a holistic process of personal and ministerial renewal. Through interactive discussions, practical exercises, and reflective sessions, the sisters explored emotional well-being, psychological integration, and spiritual growth. Particular attention was given to understanding cognitive distortions and their effects, while also deepening awareness of the social realities surrounding trafficking.

The training was followed by the Regional Assembly of the West Bengal Region, organised in collaboration with the local Conference of Religious India (CRI) unit. The assembly drew 64 women religious from across the region. Sr. Betsy FCC, Regional President, and Diana D'Souza BS, Regional Secretary, were among those present.

The gathering commenced with a thought-provoking tableau presented by students of Holy Cross Convent, Hansqua, portraying pressing contemporary social issues and setting the tone for the assembly.

Welcoming the participants, Sr. Teresa Dorjee SCSC called on religious women to respond compassionately and courageously to the wounds of society, taking inspiration from the Gospel parable of the Good Samaritan.

Addressing the assembly, Bishop Paul Simick of Bagdogra highlighted the acute vulnerability of communities in the tea garden belt and border areas along the Indo-Nepal frontier, regions that remain highly susceptible to trafficking networks. He praised the dedication of women religious who risk their own safety in rescuing victims and accompanying them on the path to healing and rehabilitation.

In her keynote address, Sr. Prema Chowallur described human trafficking as one of the gravest crimes of the modern age, urging religious congregations and Church institutions to work in greater unity and determination for the protection of the vulnerable.

Adding a field perspective, Sr. Claret Lepcha shared the realities of her ministry in North Bengal, particularly efforts to eradicate child labour and rescue at-risk children. She spoke candidly about the ongoing challenges while reaffirming the unwavering commitment of religious women to serve the poor, the exploited, and the marginalised.

The programme underscored the Church's continuing commitment to safeguarding human dignity and empowering those on the frontlines of the fight against trafficking. For the participating sisters, it was both a time of renewal and a renewed call to mission.

Religious Women Strengthen Anti-Trafficking Mission at Siliguri Formation Programme

Latest News