COMMISSION FOR WOMEN
INTRODUCTION
From the very beginning of creation, the role of women in human society is unique and irreplaceable. The chosen instrument Blessed Virgin Mary a mother figure, full of compassion to the whole human race, her qualities, courage and determination to do the will of God is incomparable, thus the role of women in the church, society and the world at large is indispensable contribution that a woman offers selflessly. However, the society being a male dominated society has always denied due respect and position to women in the families, in the church and also in the society at large.
Pope Francis in his sermon on Jan 21st 2020 at 5:08pm, while celebrating the New year day mass he mentioned, the person failing empower women, narrows the church’s vision and makes it less equipped to be a force for good in the world. It’s a great challenge for pastors and theologians to fully recognize the role and position of women in the church and the society.
VISION: United and empowered women, living with dignity in Society.
MISSION: Promotion of Solidarity, Justice and Equal Status in the Society.
GOAL: Inclusive, active and sustainable Women Cells in the Parishes.
Objectives 1: At least one active women cell in at least 50% of the parishes/Mission centres in the Diocese by December 2024
Indicators
- At least 75% of the members regularly participate in the Women Cell meeting.
- 50% of women take part in the charitable activities and organize every year at least one program for the Parishioners.
Activities suggested: Regular and active participation in the meetings, Sunday liturgy, visit to the families, Mission Sunday activity, girl child day, visiting the sick, visit to the hospital, Christmas celebration, Parish feasts, Family prayer, education of children, Guidance to Teen age girls.
Objectives 2: Al the members of the women cell will have the required knowledge on right to property title, evil consequences of early /child marriage, legal knowledge on atrocities on women, gender policy of the church and all other women and girl child related issues.
Indicators
- Property and assets are registered jointly in the name of husband and wife.
- Ensure equal rights of the girl child
- Happy and sustainable families.
- Children are aware of the certain decisions taken in the family
Objective 3: By 2024 all women cell members will have sufficient knowledge on Gender Policy of the Catholic Church of India on women and will attempt to implement the same.
Indicators:
- Women are aware of the policy
- Animators are trained on gender policy.
Objectives 4: Men and Women will know their rights as enshrined in the Constitution and are committed to uphold the rightful rights of women by December 2024.
Indicators
- Men and women are aware and articulate basic rights.
- At least 70% of men and women respect each other.
- Empowered women take responsible decisions.
Objectives 5: Networking with at least two likeminded Organizations by December 2024.
Indicators
- Women cell works in collaboration with Diocesan social service centers and celebrate women’s day.
- Women are aware of many other organizations existing in the vicinity.
- Active participation of women cell members in Streehakthi, SHGS and NGOS.