Empowering Women, Strengthening Communities
The Rural Women Upliftment Society (RWUS) is one of the development projects of the Independent Church of India (ICI), established with a special concern for the welfare and upliftment of women in rural communities.
https://rwus.org
Established in 1990, RWUS reflects the ICI’s commitment to extending its ministry beyond the spiritual life of the Church and addressing the practical needs of people, particularly those who are poor and in need. The Society is based at Sielmat, Churachandpur, alongside the ICI Secretariat.
Our Purpose
The ministry of RWUS is centred on the upliftment of rural women. It seeks to contribute to the wellbeing of women and families by providing care, support and opportunities that can help improve their lives and strengthen their communities.
The establishment of RWUS was part of a wider period of development within the ICI, when the Church began establishing several institutions and projects addressing different social and community needs. The ICI’s historical record lists RWUS alongside projects such as the Muolvaiphei Rural Health & Research Centre, Bethesda School of Nursing and Bethesda Social Service Centre.
A Ministry of Service
The ICI has historically understood its calling as extending to people who are poor and vulnerable. As the Church developed, its ministry expanded to include not only evangelism and Christian education but also healthcare, education, social service and community development.
RWUS is an expression of this wider vision.
By focusing on rural women, the Society recognises the important role women play in the life of their families and communities. The upliftment of women therefore contributes to the strengthening of households and the wider society.
Part of the ICI’s Development Ministry
RWUS forms part of the ICI’s broader commitment to holistic Christian service. Alongside its missionary and church ministries, the ICI has developed institutions and projects intended to respond to practical needs within society.
The historical record notes that RWUS was actively engaged in helping those in need and identifies it as one of the significant development projects of the Church.
Its ministry therefore represents an important aspect of the ICI’s understanding of service: proclaiming the Gospel while also demonstrating Christian compassion through practical action.
Continuing the Work
More than three decades after its establishment, RWUS continues to be part of the ministry and institutional life of the Independent Church of India.
The Society’s work is a reminder that meaningful development begins with people—with their dignity, their abilities, their families and their communities. Through its continuing commitment to rural women, RWUS seeks to contribute to a stronger and more hopeful future.
Our Commitment
To serve and uplift rural women, strengthen families, and contribute to the development of communities through Christian compassion and practical service.