The recent convocation ceremony of the Institute Mater Dei, held at Santa Monica Convent in Goa, became a moment of grace, reflection, and renewed mission for the Church in India, especially for women religious. The event was presided over by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, President of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences, who offered a powerful call to embrace a more synodal and missionary identity as Church.
A Church that Welcomes All
In his address, Cardinal Ferrão echoed the vision of Pope Francis, reminding the faithful that the Church is “the house of the Father, where there is a place for everyone.” This vision challenges us to move beyond rigid structures and narrow perspectives, and instead become a community marked by compassion, mercy, and openness.
For women religious, this invitation resonates deeply. Our communities are called not merely to function, but to become spaces of welcome—especially for those who carry wounds, burdens, and questions.
Living Synodality: Communion, Participation, Mission
Cardinal Ferrão highlighted three essential dimensions of a synodal Church:
- Communion – a unity that embraces diversity across caste, language, and culture
- Participation – recognizing that every baptized person has a role and a gift to offer
- Mission – reaching out as a Church that accompanies and serves
This vision urges us, as consecrated women, to cultivate inclusive leadership, shared responsibility, and deeper collaboration within our congregations and ministries.
Becoming a Listening Church
A significant emphasis of the message was the call to be a listening Church—attentive not only to one another, but also to the Spirit, to people of other faiths, and to the cry of creation. In today’s fragmented world, this listening becomes a prophetic act. It invites us to move beyond speaking to people, and instead journey with them—especially those on the margins.
Mission that Builds Bridges
The Church, Cardinal Ferrão reminded, is essentially missionary—called to build bridges, foster dialogue, and become a sign of unity and reconciliation.
For CRWI and its members, this is both affirmation and challenge. Our ministries in education, healthcare, social outreach, and formation are not merely services—they are spaces where seeds of peace and hope are sown daily.
A Moment of Grace for Women Religious
The convocation also celebrated the achievements of the sisters, with the release of the institute’s annual magazine, cultural programs, and personal testimonies. The presence and participation of CRWI representatives highlighted the ongoing commitment of women religious to formation, leadership, and mission.
Moving Forward Together
The message from Mater Dei is clear: the future of the Church lies in walking together—listening, discerning, and responding to the needs of our times.
As women religious in India, we are uniquely placed to embody this synodal and missionary vision:
- by fostering communities of inclusion
- by empowering participation at all levels
- by courageously stepping into new frontiers of mission
Let us continue to be pilgrims of hope, building a Church that truly reflects the love, mercy, and inclusiveness of Christ.