The Conference of Religious Women India (CRWI), in collaboration with Christ University, proudly announced the official release of RENEW, a self-help reflective guide dedicated to enhancing the holistic well-being of women religious across India. The launch marks a significant milestone in CRWI’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the emotional, psychological, and spiritual health of women religious who serve tirelessly in various ministries.
A Historic Step Toward Well-being
In her address, Sr. Maria Nirmalini AC, President of CRWI, described the moment as “historic for women religious in India,” acknowledging the growing experiences of burnout and exhaustion among religious communities. Drawing on the Gospel story of Martha and Mary, she highlighted how many women religious remain constantly engaged in ministry with little time to rest and RENEW. She emphasized the pressing need for intentional pauses, inner healing, and a return to spiritual grounding.
She expressed profound appreciation for Sr. Molly Mathew, Executive Director of CRWI, whose vision, commitment, and unwavering dedication were central to the birth of RENEW. Sr. Molly’s leadership not only guided the development of the guide but also ensured that the voices and lived experiences of women religious were meaningfully integrated. Her long-term vision for the emotional and spiritual well-being of sisters has made this publication possible and continues to inspire CRWI’s initiatives.
Sr. Nirmalini also extended heartfelt gratitude to Fr (Dr) Sajith Cyriac, SSP and the team at St Pauls Publications for supporting the publication of this much-needed resource, calling it “a dream come true.”
Sr. Lintte AC, Sr. Stella Baltazar FMM, Sr. Maria Goretti MSMHC, and Sr. Ratnam MSMHC graced the occasion as special guests. They were honoured with the first copies of the book, receiving them on behalf of all the women religious in India.
About RENEW
RENEW stands for Reflect, Energize, Nurture, Elevate, and Walk in Faith, embodying a journey of personal growth and spiritual grounding.
The book is the culmination of:
- 20 sensitization webinars
- 10 intensive training programs
- Insights and contributions from women religious across India
The guide contains five practical modules focused on:
- Physical health
- Emotional wellness
- Resilience and mental well-being
- Restorative practices
- Holistic health and self-care
It is designed to inspire self-awareness, build resilience, and nurture a culture of emotional and spiritual well-being within religious communities.
Key Highlights from the Launch
- Dr. Patrick Jude presented the content and practical applications of the guide, encouraging congregations to integrate its insights into their daily lives.
- A structured Action Plan was shared, recommending the formation of committees within congregations to strengthen advocacy, promote early identification of distress, and contextualize wellness practices.
- Participants discussed challenges such as maintaining engagement and overcoming resistance to seeking help, and recommended creating small diocesan-level reflection teams.
- Future sessions and training programs will be open to both sisters and laypeople, expanding the reach and impact of the guide.
Reflections and Gratitude
Participants expressed deep appreciation for the guide and its transformative potential. Many emphasized the need for sustained reflection spaces, supportive leadership, and collaborative efforts to implement RENEW meaningfully in communities.
CRWI expresses its heartfelt gratitude to all collaborators, particularly Sr. Molly Mathew, Christ University faculty members, the contributing women religious, and all those who worked behind the scenes to make this publication a reality.
RENEW is more than a book—it is a movement toward healing, empowerment, and Renewed strength for women religious across India.
Order Now:
• Online: Place Your Order Here: https://forms.office.com/r/0yvhsxra2m
• Mail us: fin@crwi.org.in, executivedirector@crwi.org.in
• For Queries: Mobile: 6364919155 / 6364919152
Let us join hands in promoting a culture of care and renewal across all communities. Your
support will make a lasting difference.