ASIA/INDIA - Catholic Council of India meeting on role of women in the Church and society and the challenges facing the Catholic community in the third millennium

Bangalore (Agenzia Fides) - The role and charisma of women in the Church and in society will be the main theme of a meeting of the Catholic Council of India comprising bishops, clergy, religious and lay people to be held 1-3 December 2007 in the diocese of Ranchi, in the north Indian state of Jharkhand. The meeting will be presided by CCI president Cardinal Telesphore Toppo. Some 500 participants are expected to gather to discuss the main theme as well as the presence of the Church in society, minority rights, relations with the government, socio-economic situation of Catholic communities, violence against Christians and Christian structures and property.
India's Catholics are aware that rapid change calls for renewed vision and formation of clergy, religious and lay people in keeping with the Gospel and with respect for the rich and varied religious-cultural traditions of their country. Challenges include globalisation, inter-ethnic conflict, struggle for justice for the poor and oppressed people, movements to promote respect for women, the environment and human rights. To respond as Christians to these challenges it is necessary to turn to God and for all Christians of all walks of life to rediscover the “prophetic" dimension of life.
It is necessary to educate to a critical attitude and use of the media to help the faithful understand the dynamics of a world which changes ever more rapidly. Priorities for the local Church to be inserted in programmes in parishes, seminaries and lay associations, include promotion of respect for human rights, safeguarding creation, inculturation, interreligious dialogue. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 10/10/2007 righe 27 parole 279)