By Fr. Anjelus Kujur –
Ranchi: The works of mercy for the poor of the Ranchi Archdiocese continues. Today, Archbishop Felix Toppo SJ and Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas SFX, along with the Ranchi Catholic youth, visited Chunwatoli, a small basti (hamlet) located near the Birsa Munda bus stand (Khadgarha Bus stand) of the Ranchi city in the eastern Indian state of Jharkhand. Daily wage earners who live in the nearby small huts inhabit this area.
Due to the Corona pandemic, the poor people of this area have been finding it difficult to get their daily bread. Struggling for survival in this corona time, they approached the Archbishop House for help. Today, the Ranchi Archdiocese responded to their plea by distributing 15-day rations consisting of rice, dal (pulses), chana (chickpeas), soybeans and cooking oil to over 150 families in Chunwa Toli.
Opening the proceedings, Ranchi Catholic Youth president Kuldeep Tirkey told the people that, “We have come here to help you and this aid is from the generous hearts of the people in the Catholic Church.”
Archbishop Felix Toppo led a short prayer invoking the help and protection of the Almighty. He thanked God for being with the people in these difficult times and to feel the pain and the crisis they are going through. “We all are children of God and God loves every one and so He helps us through different means and different people,” he prayed. He also prayed for God’s grace so that in these difficult times they continue to stand together and support each other.
While addressing the gathering, Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas SFX said, “We know that in this time of corona pandemic so many people and families are facing difficulties and the Catholic Church loves every one. It does not discriminate that between who is Christian, Hindu, Muslim or Sarna. It helps all who are in need, that’s why we have come to help the people here on their request.” Bishop Theodore further added, “Nowadays, we hear about conversions and that we are serving people for sake of conversions,” and said that, “those who do not wish that the poor be helped are making these false accusations. We are here selflessly because we feel your distress and want to help you. We pray that whichever God you believe in and whichever religion you adhere to, may the Almighty help you and protect you. We pray God to bless those generous and large hearted people who have helped us and contributed to bring these things to you.”
Bishop Theodore also urged that, “Those who accuse us falsely of converting people by distributing these materials, should try and come forward and help the people instead of spreading false rumours.”
Fr. Sushil Toppo, Fr. Anjelus Ekka, the President of the Ranchi Catholic youth, youth members and the Catholic Sabha members of Chunwa Toli participated in the distribution.