The Diocesan Women’s Commission of Varanasi joyfully celebrated its Annual Gathering and Pilgrimage on 4th and 5th October 2026 at Hartmanpur Mission. The annual gathering and pilgrimage is a cherished tradition of the Women’s Commission and is held every year on the first Saturday and Sunday of October, bringing together women from different parishes of the Diocese for prayer, fellowship, reflection and spiritual renewal.
The two-day gathering provided an opportunity for the women to come together as a faith-filled community, strengthen their bonds of unity and fraternity, and deepen their commitment to the mission of the Church and the service of society.
The programme began with a warm welcome to the participating women from different parishes. The gathering created a joyful and prayerful atmosphere as the participants joined together in prayer and reflection. The pilgrimage to Hartmanpur Mission became a significant spiritual experience for the women, offering them an opportunity to pause from their daily responsibilities and renew their relationship with God.
The participants took part in the Holy Eucharist, prayers, hymns and other spiritual activities. Through the pilgrimage, the women were encouraged to walk together in faith, seeking God’s guidance and strength for their families, communities and the Church.
The Annual Gathering also served as a platform for fellowship, sharing and interaction among the women. The participants shared their experiences, reflected on the activities of the Women’s Commission and discussed ways of strengthening women’s participation in the life and mission of the Diocese. The gathering encouraged the women to continue working together with dedication, compassion and a spirit of service.
Special emphasis was placed on the role of women as witnesses of faith, builders of families and active contributors to the Church and society. The gathering reminded everyone that women, through their faith, courage and commitment, have an important role to play in bringing hope, peace and positive transformation to their families and communities.
The serene surroundings of Hartmanpur Mission added to the spiritual significance of the occasion. The pilgrimage enabled the women to experience a sense of peace and togetherness while renewing their commitment to Christ and to the mission entrusted to them.
The two-day celebration concluded with gratitude to God for the successful gathering and for the presence and participation of all the women. The Annual Gathering once again demonstrated the unity, faith and missionary spirit of the Varanasi Diocesan Women’s Commission.
The women returned to their respective parishes with renewed faith, enthusiasm and a deeper sense of responsibility, carrying with them the inspiration received during the pilgrimage. The Annual Gathering and Pilgrimage at Hartmanpur Mission was truly a meaningful celebration of faith, fellowship, prayer and women’s active participation in the life of the Church.