Events
International Women’s Day celebrated with a theme: “For ALL women and girls- Rights, Equality & Empowerment”:

BELLARY, MAR 16, 2025

The Diocesan Commission for Women and the Health Commission collaboratively celebrated International Women’s Day at St. Antony’s Pastoral Center in Cantonment, Bellary, on March 16, 2025. A large number of women from all the parishes of Ballari deanery enthusiastically participated in the day long program.

International Women’s Day serves as a platform to acknowledge the significant roles women play in the family, society and the church.

At that occasion, Bishop Henry, Bishop of Bellary applauded the invaluable contribution of women to the church, society also their families. He further encouraged all the women present to share their faith, wisdom, experience and strength to participate in a synodal way their roles as collaborators in the church’s pastoral initiatives.

Bishop Henry D’Souza, Bishop of Bellary, Dr Divya MS, Oncologist, Ballari Medical College and her team of doctors, Mrs. Ferina Xavier, District Manager, and Public Information Officer, Koppal District, Mrs. Sheela Das, Secretary, Diocesan Women’s Commission, Mrs. Josphine Reddy, Chairperson, Dio. WC, Mrs. Sharada David, Secretary SSSS of Ballari were the resource persons of the day.

On that occasion, Dr. Divya, an oncologist at Ballari Medical College, highlighted the rising health challenges that women encounter, especially concerning cancer. She proposed several practical measures and encouraged women to be responsible for their physical and mental well-being.

The resource person of the day, Ms Ferina Xavier encouraged women to cultivate confidence in both God and themselves. She emphasized that transformation occurs when we support one another, thereby empowering women collectively. Ms Sheela Das, Secretary, Diocesan Women Commission, highlighted the significance of faith driven women in fostering, strong leadership within communities.

Ms Josephine Reddy, Chairperson , the Diocesan Women Commission emphasized the urgent need to seize every opportunity to expedite the growth journey of women. Issuing Ayueshman cards was facilitated by members Shaki Sthree Sakthi Society under the leadership of Ms. Fatima M. S., Ms. Sharada & Ms. Arogya Mary and free health check up for women was held under the leadership of Dr Liba Sebastine, Ballari Medical College and Sr Viola Furtado FHIM of St Mary’s Hospital, Ballari.