Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bangalore (Agenzia Fides) – The Camillian Order in India has recently opened a Center for Health Pastoral Care in Bangalore. The event was celebrated along with the close of the Jubilee Year for the 25th anniversary of the Camillians' arrival to India, and the official establishment of the Indian Vice-Province of the Congregation.
The celebration was presided by Cardinal Varkey Vithayathil, President of the Indian Bishops' Conference, and was attended by Camillian religious and Bishops of several dioceses, where the Camillian Order is present, along with many friends, collaborators, and benefactors who have appreciated the charism of Saint Camillus.
The new Center, which was blessed by the Cardinal, is part of the Snehadaan Campus, which will become a place for education, but also for charity.
Archbishop Bernard Moras of Bangalore, President of the Health Committee for the Indian Bishops' Conference, encouraged those present not to turn a blind eye to the suffering of so many people, recalling that it is the Church's duty to be a “neighbor” towards those most in need. He also highlighted that the Church offers salvation, which goes beyond only physical health. Salvation and health are characteristics of the new Pastoral Center of the Camillians, who intend to make Christ's love made to every man.
The Camillians also celebrated their 25th anniversary of being present in India. Begun in Mananthavady in 1984, the Jubilee Year is an opportunity for prayer and remembering, through a series of events that have focused on the service to the sick (especially those suffering from leprosy and AIDS) that has been carried out by the local missionaries and religious during this past quarter of a century. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 31/10/2009)
