CHAAP & TS Holds 38th Annual General Body Meeting in Khammam, Focuses on Dignity in Care

The Catholic Health Association of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana (CHAAP & TS) conducted its 38th Annual General Body Meeting (AGBM) in Khammam on September 11, 2026, focusing on the theme “Dignity in Care: Shaping the Future of Elderly, Palliative and Vulnerable Healthcare.” Around 60 participants, including religious sisters, healthcare professionals, resource persons and invited guests, attended the gathering. The meeting provided an opportunity for prayer, reflection, learning, networking and planning for the future of Catholic healthcare ministry. The day began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Most Rev. Prakash Sagili, Chairperson of the TCBC Health Commission and Ecclesiastical Adviser of CHAAP & TS. Several priests and members of the Catholic Health Association of India (CHAI) participated in the celebration. The inaugural session included prayer, a welcome address and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Archbishop Sagili offered his message, while Sr. Dr. Helen Mary, Director General of CHAI, delivered the keynote address related to the meeting's theme. In her presidential address, Sr. Dr. Vijaya M. Udumala, President of CHAAP & TS, stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation with CHAI and encouraging greater collaboration among religious congregations. She highlighted the responsibility of protecting the dignity of people who are vulnerable and marginalized. The first thematic session, led by Fr. Santhosh Dias, focused on effective networking between CHAI and its member institutions. He encouraged institutions to share resources, information, expertise and support. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining updated institutional records and profiles through the CommCare App. A second session examined geriatric and palliative care models. Four religious sisters representing member institutions shared their experiences and initiatives in caring for elderly people and patients requiring palliative care. Another session was conducted by a regional team from the Asian Movement of Women Religious Against Human Trafficking (AMRAT). It focused on awareness, protection and the dignity of vulnerable people, particularly those affected by human trafficking. The business session included approval of the previous meeting's minutes, presentation of the annual report and review of the audited financial report. Participants also discussed future priorities and initiatives for CHAAP & TS. The meeting concluded with encouragement from the Church and healthcare leaders to strengthen collaboration and continue providing dignified, compassionate and inclusive healthcare, especially for elderly people, palliative-care patients and vulnerable communities. The gathering ended with prayer and the singing of the CHAI Anthem. The AGBM ultimately served as a platform to review organisational progress, exchange healthcare experiences and plan future initiatives for Catholic healthcare ministry in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.