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International Women’s Day Celebration by Archdiocesan Women’s Commission

The eagerly awaited annual event, the International Women’s Day celebration by the Archdiocesan Womens’ Commission was held on Sunday, 3rd March, 2024 at Canossa Convent, Mahim. Over more than 400 women from the various parishes of Mumbai enjoyed a morning of uplifting talks, entertainment and a sumptuous breakfast and lunch.

The program began with a graceful Prayer Dance by the Women’s Cell of St. Joseph’s Church, Vikhroli. After a rousing recital of the Woman ’s Creed and Anthem, a warm welcome was given by Bernadine Fernandes, Executive Secretary to the Archdiocesan Woman’s Commission of Bombay. She quoted Gloria Steinem, a world renowned feminist and journalist " The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organisation but to the collective efforts of ALL who care about human rights".  She also spoke on strategies how to involve women in the Economy.

The young and energetic Compere Veronica D’Souza , had an ice breaker which  got the ladies in the mood. At regular  intervals there were innovative spot prizes and activities conducted by her.

Sr Audrey from Canossa Andheri took the stage to enlighten the audience about Nari Shakti and the rights and duties of responsible Indian citizens. She emphasized the need to make informed choices and vote. She briefly explained the Preamble to the Constitution. An informative and much needed talk.

The entertainment provided by the elegant and energetic Line Dancers from Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Parish, Chembur and also by the St Michael’s, Mahim team got everyone cheering and tapping their toes in unison with the dancers.

Ms Cheryl Pereira, a successful entrepreneur was felicitated. Her entrepreneurial journey was inspiring. She encouraged women to be confident and courageous, build a support system and have a never say die attitude to achieve success.

Ms Divya Nair, a Clinical psychologist from Fleet Management Shipping Company, spoke next about mental and physical health, the challenges facing women in everyday life, breaking silence, building resilience and seeking help.

The well known name in Konkani music and theatre, Ms Betty Naz, was felicitated.  She graciously obliged when requested to sing a konkani song.  Her clarion call to all Mumbaikars was ‘to speak konkani’.

The finale to the program was a meaningful Eucharistic celebration, concelebrated by Fr Anthony Fernandes, Ecclesial Director to the Archdiocesan Women’s Commission and Fr Caesar Faroz S.J.  from Holy Family Church, Andheri. The choir were " Cantors for Christ" from Salvation  Church, Dadar. In his homily, Fr Anthony mentioned that  there is a need to have a Women’s Cell in every parish in the Archdiocese. This would go a long way to help get rid of bias, stereotypes, discrimination and would " Inspire Inclusion".

Maureen Lobo, Deanery Coordinator, Navi Mumbai, in her vote of thanks stated that a  program of this size would not have been possible without the active leadership of Bernadine and her team of Deanery Coordinators and Co Coordinators, and the  Women’s Cells who assisted from the Registration desk to the distribution of the meals and ensuring active participation.

The day marked a call to action for accelerating woman’s economic empowerment and equality and to celebrate each one’s achievements.

Collective action and shared ownership is what makes International Women’s Day impactful. Snacks & Lunch Boxes served to all.