The Conference of Religious Women India (CRWI) is a dynamic organization that serves as a unifying force for all the women's congregations across India committed to religious service. Established in the early 1960s under the guidance of Archbishop J.R. Knox and Sr. M. Theodosia A.C., CRWI was formally erected by the Holy See in 1963 and became a registered Trust under the Indian Trust Act on 25th February 1981. CRWI operates with the overarching goal of prioritizing the needs and aims of the church above the interests of individual religious congregations, fostering cooperation and coordination among them.
One of CRWI's significant contributions is the establishment of the Institute Mater Dei in 1964, a theological formation institute dedicated to empowering women religious in India. This institute offers tailored educational programs and resources, including courses on theology, spirituality, pastoral care, and leadership, to deepen the understanding of faith and enhance ministry among women religious. Additionally, CRWI oversees various other programs and initiatives, such as the Centre for Innovations and Initiatives for Religious India (CIIRI), the Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC), and the Centre for Research on Religious Life India (CRRI).
Through its diverse initiatives, CRWI strives to provide comprehensive support, empowerment, and resources to women religious in India. By promoting unity, fostering collaboration, and addressing the unique challenges faced by women religious, CRWI enables them to fulfill their vocations effectively and make significant contributions to the church and society.
