By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

The Western India Branch of the Church History Association of India (CHAI) organised a conference titled “Christianity and Society in Western India: Mission, Economy and Philanthropy” on October 17, 2026 at Wesley Church, Colaba, Mumbai. The conference began at 10 a.m. and drew about 40 participants, including CHAI members and distinguished guests. Fr Renold Lemos, who is on the verge of completing his PhD in History, was one of three resource persons invited to present papers.

Mrs Agnes de Sa opened the programme by sharing information about CHAI and inviting those present to join the association. Prof Dr Louiza Rodrigues, convenor and secretary of CHAI, then introduced the theme: “The history of Christianity in India is not merely a history of churches, missionaries, and religious practices. It is also a history of communities, institutions, ideas, social relationships, and changing economic realities.” She went on to introduce the speakers.

Prof Emeritus Fr S. M. Michael opened the paper presentations with a study of how Catholic and Protestant movements have shaped economic ethics and modern culture, drawing on Max Weber and Peter Berger. He explained Calvin’s view that material prosperity signalled divine election: “If you are economically doing well, you are selected by God to be rich. If you are poor, that is a sign you are not elected.” According to Weber, he said, this attitude led to capitalism.

Fr Lemos presented “Catholic Philanthropy in 20th Century Bombay: Historical Development, Communities and Philanthropists.” He argued that Catholic charity in the city did not arise from a single source. As he put it, “Catholic philanthropy in Bombay was shaped not by a single source of patronage but by the coming together of diverse forms of support and their conversion into lasting social, educational, and healthcare institutions.” His research shows how these efforts grew into institutions that still serve the city.

Fr Joshan Rodrigues traced the history of The Examiner newsweekly, which has recorded Catholic life in India since 1850. Reflecting on the newsweekly’s legacy, he said, “The Examiner is not merely a Catholic weekly but a time capsule of the history of Bombay and India.”

Speaking about his experience, Fr Lemos said, “Presenting my paper was a rewarding experience that broadened my understanding of the Catholic Church’s significant role in shaping Bombay’s social history.” Participants appreciated the papers for the depth of research involved and the clarity of presentation.

Fr Lemos’s presentation at a forum such as this is significant. It is an important contribution to historical research in an ecumenical setting, and it highlights the value of collaboration among Catholic historians, given how little research has so far been done on the history of Catholic philanthropy.