The Women Commission of the Diocese of Gulbarga successfully organized a Formation and Training Programme for the Women Commission members of the Gulbarga and Bidar Deaneries on 30 June 2026. The programmes were held at Mother of Divine Grace Cathedral, Kalaburagi, for the Gulbarga Deanery and St. Joseph Church, Bidar, for the Bidar Deanery.
The programme was animated by Sr. Lidwin Fernandes, National Secretary of the Women Commission, who served as the resource person. Through inspiring presentations and interactive sessions, she reflected on the identity and mission of women in the Church and society. Her sessions focused on “Who is a Woman?”, the generosity and self-giving nature of women, the many languages through which women communicate love, care, and compassion, the relationship between women and God, and women as proclaimers of the Good News and messengers of truth.
Drawing from Scripture and everyday life, Sr. Lidwin encouraged the participants to recognize their God-given dignity and gifts, deepen their spiritual life, and become courageous leaders in their families, parishes, and communities. She emphasized that women are called to be instruments of faith, hope, reconciliation, and service in building a vibrant and synodal Church.
Addressing the participants at both centres, Most Rev. Dr. Robert Miranda, Bishop of Gulbarga, called upon the women to “be a blessing to others” through their words, actions, and service. He encouraged them to become living witnesses of faith, radiating Christ’s love in their families, neighbourhoods, and parish communities. The Bishop reminded them that every Christian woman has a unique vocation to nurture faith, promote unity, and bear witness to the Gospel through a life of prayer, compassion, and selfless service.
The programmes also featured moments of prayer, the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, group interaction, and sharing of experiences, creating an atmosphere of learning, fellowship, and spiritual renewal.
The formation programme concluded with a renewed commitment from the participants to strengthen the Women’s Commission in their respective parishes and actively participate in the evangelizing mission of the Diocese. The Diocese of Gulbarga continues to empower women through ongoing formation, fostering a Church where women serve as faithful disciples, compassionate leaders, and authentic witnesses of Christ.
