Indian Theologians Elect Woman as President

Pune, October 09, 2025 — The Indian Theological Association (ITA) has broken new ground by electing Sister Evelyn Monteiro, of the Sisters of the Cross of Chavanod, as its new president. This marks the second time in the association’s history that a woman will head the body — a move hailed as a significant step for gender equality within the Indian Church.

Sister Evelyn, a respected professor of theology with decades of teaching experience, previously served as the ITA’s vice president. Known for her scholarship and gravitas, she brings credibility to a role long dominated by men. Delegates at the ITA’s annual convention said her election reflected a growing recognition of the vital contribution of women to theological discourse in India.

The election of a woman as President of the Association for the second time, despite there being such few women members, is not just a symbolic shift but a structural change that recognises the contribution of women theologians and the need for broadening the space for inclusive theological reflections.

The Prophetic Challenge

According to Lobo, Evelyn’s greatest challenge will be one faced by all theologians — to be prophetic. “Prophets are often controversial figures who disturb the status quo and speak truth to power,” Lobo explained. “Yet to effect real change, they must also be accepted by the hierarchy — a tension that is never easy to navigate.”

For feminist theologians in particular, Evelyn represents hope. Many will expect her to be vocal about pressing issues such as gender equality in the Church, justice for survivors of clergy sexual abuse, and the development of a theology of priesthood that emphasises servanthood over hierarchical power.

A Turning Point

Her election comes at a time when theological scholarship in India is grappling with urgent questions of secularisation, social justice, and interfaith engagement. With her academic authority and leadership experience, Evelyn is seen as well placed to guide the ITA into deeper dialogue with these challenges.

Still, as Lobo cautioned, symbolic shifts must be accompanied by structural change. For Evelyn, the task ahead will be to transform her historic appointment into concrete progress — from broadening space for women theologians to encouraging inclusive theological education across the country.

Looking Forward

As she begins her first term as President, expectations are high. Evelyn Monteiro’s presidency is not just about breaking a glass ceiling; it is about shaping a theological culture that values diversity, equality, and the signs of the times.

Her election in October 2025 may well be remembered as a watershed moment in Indian theology — a moment when giving women’s voices a platform has been normalised, allowing them to reshape the conversation itself.

Indian Theologians Elect Woman as President

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