Inauguration of JD Women's Forum

The Inauguration Ceremony and Orientation Program of the JD Women’s Forum was held at the Centre for Women’s Study (CWS), Pune, on July 05, 2025, on the theme “Formation for an Indigenous Church.” The program commenced with the arrival of Frs. Peter Ignatius, John Karuvelil, Francis Gonslaves, Nishant Irudayadason, Herman Tirkey, Claudius Tauro, Sr. Clara Almeida, Sr. Sylvie Rodrigues and Bro. Geetan Santhumayor. The ceremony began with words of welcome to all and a short prayer service invoking the blessings of the Father. There was lighting of the lamp as a symbol of Christ’s light in our lives. Soon after the prayer service, Dr. Nishant Alphonse Irudayadason, animated the sisters, addressing them on the importance of women's role in the church. He asserted that women are the ones who prepared the ground for the sacramental legacy. He also spoke on faithfulness to God and their calling. 

Later the Orientation Program was conducted by Sr. Sylvie Rodrigues BS, the Animator of JD Women Students’ Forum. She explained the mission, vision, meaning, and purpose of the Women’s Forum. With great vigor and enthusiasm, the sisters organized a few minutes of recreation and games. 

JD Women Forum Input Session

The JD Women Forum organized an Input Session on 5th September at the Centre for Women Studies on the theme “Woman, Theology, and Church from Latin America.” The gathering brought together sisters of JD from the Centre for Women Studies and neighboring communities, along with student sisters, who participated with eagerness and enthusiasm.

The program began with a warm welcome followed by a prayer song that set the tone of reverence and unity. A message from the president of the Forum followed, underscoring the vision of empowering women’s voices in theology and the Church. The resource persons were Dr. Consuelo Vélez, Doctor of Theology, a distinguished professor and researcher at the Faculty of Theology, Pontifical Xavierian University, Bogotá and Dr. Maria Goretti Gonsalves, a professor and ex-Principal of Vidya Bhavan College of Commerce.

Prof. Velez conducted two engaging sessions exploring the rich contributions of women’s theology from Latin America. Dr. Gonsalves enriched the reflections with insights on leadership, empowerment, and faith lived in secular contexts. Their inputs resonated deeply with the participants, affirming the vital role of women in theology and the Church.

The input sessions were not merely an academic encounter but a moment of inspiration, dialogue, and communion. It renewed the commitment of the JD Women Forum to uphold the dignity, contribution, and leadership of women in theology and society.

Girl Child Day Celebration

The JD Women’s Forum, in collaboration with Streevani Centre organized the “Girl Child Day” Program on November 1, 2025.

The event was attended by 42 girls, to celebrate the girl child while focusing on value education, legal awareness, and the importance of education. The sisters of CWS took the leadership in coordinating action songs and games that highlighted the significance of unity for the celebration. Sr. Alestina presented an inspiring lecture in Marathi, underscoring the crucial importance of girls’ education. Sr. Clera from Streevani addressed the topic of legal awareness, while Mr. Yesh provided insights on Cyber security.

The program proved to be a significant success. The entire afternoon was enriched by the children, showing great enthusiasm throughout the songs, games, and input sessions. The blend of motivating speeches regarding education and essential legal awareness rendered the event both enjoyable and immensely beneficial for all children.