A two days workshop was organized for the spouses of the alumni of KTC by the Centre of Women Studies and Gender Concerns, KTC. The workshop emphasized the vital role of spouses of the Pastors as co-journeyers in theological formation, ministry, and community building. It provided a platform for dialogue, learning, and mutual encouragement, focusing on gender sensitivity, biblical and theological perspectives, equality, justice, and healing within the context of faith and society.
Inaugural Session:
The programme commenced with the inaugural session led by Rev. Gracy Christina Mary, Director, Centre for Women Studies and Gender Concerns who warmly welcomed the participants and formally inaugurated the workshop. In her opening address, she emphasized the importance of couples journeying together in theological education and ministry with mutual understanding, support, and harmony. She also highlighted the renewed vision and commitment of the Women’s Centre, now actively engaging with Gender Studies and Gender Concerns, and stressed the urgent need to address gender disparities through theological reflection and community awareness.
Thematic Sessions:
“Cultivate and Motivate: Biblical and Theological Perspective”: Rev. Hemalatha John through a thoughtful reflection on 2 Samuel 20:14 :22, highlighted transformative role of wisdom, courage, and discernment in resolving conflicts and nurturing peace within communities emphasizing crucial roles of individuals, including women, in peace building and sustaining community life.
“Let’s Overcome Bias, Discrimination, and Silence”: Mrs. Shwetha Mithun on used Kannada folk traditions, including Lavani and GiGi Pada songs, to illustrate how gender discrimination is deeply embedded within cultural, social, political, and religious systems, which powerfully revealed the silent suffering, marginalization, and injustice experienced by women and girl children.
“Cultivate and Motivate: Beyond Gender and Sex”: Mrs. Merlyn, Head of Deeds Foundation (NGO), explained the distinction between gender and sexuality and explored how societal and familial expectations often place unfair pressures on individuals which enabled participants to understand the realities of gender-based discrimination. She emphasized the need to build inclusive, respectful, and life-affirming communities.
“Cultivate and Motivate: Biblical Perspective”: Mrs. Rekha Barnabas drawing attention from the biblical examples of Deborah and Lydia, demonstrated how women played significant roles as leaders, encouragers, and builders of faith communities. She emphasized that companionship in ministry is not merely a passive support but active and equal involvement to nurture faith, strengthen families, and build vibrant communities.
“Cultivate and Motivate: Embodying Equality”: Rev. Binu C John emphasized that equality is not merely a theoretical concept but a spiritual and ethical responsibility that must be lived out in everyday relationships, ministry, and community life. He challenged participants to embody justice, dignity, mutual respect, and compassion, and to become witnesses of equality in both church and society.
“Gendered Perspectives and Disparities: Lay Theologian’s Perspective of Ministry Models from Grassroots Professionals in the Secular World and Companion in Ministry” a panel discussion: Palanists Mrs. Anitha George and Mr. John Michel, offered valuable insights into the lived experiences, challenges, and contributions of companions in ministry highlighting ministry as a shared vocation that requires partnership, understanding, mutual encouragement, and equality.
“Juxtaposition: Trauma and Healing”: Rev. Priyadarshini addressed the emotional and spiritual wounds caused by discrimination, injustice, and marginalization emphasizing the importance of healing through faith, compassionate relationships, and supportive community structures. She reminded participants that healing is essential not only for personal well-being but also for effective and life-giving ministry.
The smooth coordination of the Alumni Spuses’ Meet was made possible through the dedicated service of the Student Leaders of various subcommittees: Miss Anitha, Mr. John Anchan, and Mr. Sachin Pal.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by the Director, Rev. Gracy Christina Mary.
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