History
A group of Theologically Trained Women of India met in 1977 at Gurukul Lutheran
Theological College & Research Institute under the leadership of Shanthi Solomon and D
Hoeffer, a German Missionary. This conference had three-fold purpose: To help
theologically trained women to explore ways and extend responsible participation in the
total life of and mission of the church; To focus the attention of Churches on presence of
theologically trained women of India among them and to recognize their potential; and To
encourage theologically trained women to organize themselves into an All-India
Association to develop strategies for meeting their needs.
The conferences of the theologically trained women were held in 1978 and in 1979. Sixty
theologically trained women of India representing various denominations met at Gurukul
Lutheran Theological College and Research Institute, Madras (Chennai) for a conference
from February 20 – 22, 1979 on the theme “Dare, Share and Act.” In that conference an ad
hoc committee was constituted to draft a Constitution for forming the Association of
Theologically Trained Women of India under the leadership of Dr. Shanthi Solomon. Since
then ATTWI meets regularly both at national and at regional levels. Today we find the
presence of 1000s of theologically trained women all over India and elsewhere. They are in
various positions as pastors, theological educators, counselors, and leaders of various
organizations.
ATTWI continues her vision and mission in encouraging her members to understand the
potential that they have been created in and to be the channels of justice and peace.
ATTWI empowers her members to raise their voices together against the injustices done to
women, the marginalized and the nature. ATTWI stands with the church through her
members in establishing the Rein of God on the earth.
ATTWI officers, Executive committee members and the Regional secretaries greet the
church in India, all theological Institutions, church related organizations, women of India
and especially theologically trained women in India on behalf of the Association of
Theological Trained Women of India. Let us be united and contribute in whatever the way
we can (adding members, paying membership fee, writings, xpressing solidarity,
organizing, prayers, strengthening each other, sharing knowledge etc.) to make ATTWI
visible, vibrant, powerful, and relevant and a blessing to our church in India and our society
at large. Let us bring transformation and do our best to make a difference.