Loving Care in Challenging Times

Assisi Province sisters bring Christ’s Good News to the poor

A little over a year ago, Sisters Rosebell Ponthakkan (Provincial), Francitta Pazhukkathara, Mercitta Arimpour and Sherlit Vallachirakkaran (Provincial Councilors) began their ministry of leadership for Assisi Province, South India. In a recent interview, they talked about the province’s ministry needs, challenges, and growth opportunities.

“As a first step of our ministry, we listened deeply to our sisters about their personal and ministry needs,” the team members stated. “Responding to the needs of the community and missions, we had to make the difficult decision to end three of our collaborative ministries. In order to assign sisters to other thriving missions, we needed to end an education ministry in Punjab, India; a care center for HIV patients in Chavady, Tamilnadu, India; and an education ministry in Songea, Tanzania.

“Formation of women for religious life has been our main ministry in Tanzania. Among the eight sisters in Tanzania, only two so far are earning a wage. However, a new mission in Segu, Dodoma, Tanzania could be opened with an intention to start an education ministry, which will be very beneficial for the people in that community. Construction of the kindergarten school building is underway.

“A kindergarten was opened last year in Chengena, Tanzania, in collaboration with the local parish. Though there are many children, there are few families who can afford to pay the tuition fees. This is a challenge: Our sisters totally rely on the province to meet all their expenses. We are so grateful for the help of the donors from the United States who support the Tanzanian mission so generously.

“Another challenge is the expense to maintain our convent and institution buildings. Costs have been increasing due to adverse weather conditions and ever-changing government regulations. We have had to look closely at ministries like Assisi Special School, our school for children with special needs in Bangalore. We provide free education and free bus service to all students, and salaries to the regular and specialized staff. Currently, we serve 89 students with cognitive and physical disabilities. Looking ahead, we may not be able to provide all these services, and we might need to limit admissions and staff hiring in coming years.”

Striving for Equity

The sisters also care for 50 girls with hearing impairments who are studying at Montfort Special School in Mysore, India, a co-ed school run by the Montfort Brothers. Though the brothers get a grant from the government for both the boys and girls, the amount given for the girls is much less than for the boys. The sisters have been advocating for more equitable funding and ensuring that all students receive first-class care.

“In a digital world, taking classes without some visuals is difficult, especially for girls who cannot hear and speak. They follow sign language, so a large computer screen would enhance their studies. We want to provide these children with better care beyond the classroom as well, including more nutritious food; special mentoring with additional staff; a safer environment with CCTV; and a well-maintained residence, which is also home to a group of our women in formation.  

“We are greatly indebted to our partners and benefactors who are putting their trust in us and helping us move forward spreading the Good News to the poor. Most of our province’s missions came into being through the generosity of our donors. In times of need, you have been there with helping hands.

“We pray for our benefactors daily, and if any of our supporters are interested in visiting our missions, we can offer you a warm welcome! Thank you so much for your trusting accompaniment in the life and mission of Christ through Assisi Province!

Image: Sisters from Assisi Province with kindergarteners in Chengena, Tanzania.