Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Talavadi (Agenzia Fides) – Among the traditional events in India is the "Festival of Life" promoted by “Guanelliani” (Servants of Charity, Opera Don Guanella), which is held in Talavadi, Diocese of Ooty, in the north-west area of Tamil Nadu, at the Nazareth Illam Care Center, which cares for over 450 disabled persons directly in their homes, in over 100 villages. It is a day of games, prayer, and sharing that is attended by over 130 children in desperate situations: "It is a great joy to see all the children, youth, and elderly dancing, singing, playing, and praying, looking at life with renewed hope and confidence,” explains the center's director, Fr. Joseph.
On Sunday, the 29th was the meeting scheduled for November: the day began with prayer and was then followed by many games and a simple meal: rice, sambar, and a fruit. "When there are many, we use banana leaves as plates,” explains Fr. Luigi De Giambattista, Provincial Superior. "They come to be together, enjoying each other's talents, gifts that each of them possesses. The children are then welcomed without distinction of caste, color, creed, abilities...” he adds.
The “Guanelliani” have been in Talavadi since May 28. They received a request from the Diocese, to care for the small center. They offer medicine, comfort, and some guidance on how to provide first aid rehabilitation. With the two priests who reside in the center, a social worker, and sometimes a doctor, they move from village to village.
"Physiotherapists are urgently needed," says Fr. Piero Lippoli, Secretary General of the Opera and Mission Coordinator for the Guanelliani in Asia, recently back from India. “We intend to soon launch a proposal for a mission experience for young physiotherapists studying in Italy, so they could accompany the priests in the villages and, for example, teach the mothers how to massage their disabled child, to offer care on a constant basis and not just occasionally. (AP) (2/12/2009 Agenzia Fides)
