Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Darjeeling (Agenzia Fides) -Loreto Sisters in the diocese of Darjeeling are rejoicing for a new 'region' of their apostolate with a Loreto House in the Darjeeling district in west Bengal, Sikkim and Nepal. The announcement of the new region was given on 16 June during Mass in the Immaculate Conception Cathedral Darjeeling, not far from Loreto Convent. The new regional superior is Sr Monica Alfonsa, says Fr Alex Gurung, Darjeeling diocesan spokesman. On June 30 Fr Gurung told a SarNews that the new region was a milestone for the diocese of Darjeeling, where the Sisters have introduced culture and education for girls. The diocese hopes this will overcome social and cultural discrimination against women in the region. The Mass was presided by the Bishop of Darjeeling and concelebrated by the Bishop of Bagdogra. Besides the mother general and many Loreto Sisters who had come from Rome for the occasion, there were many local priests and religous and about 100 lay faithful.
In her address the Mother Superior said this marked a significant step forward in the field of education in Darjeeling. After the inauguration ceremony the first regional Superior made a solemn promise to carry out her mandate at the service of the Loreto region with all her physical, spiritual and emotional strength. (K.P.) (Agenzia Fides 6/7/2007; righe 23, parole 327)
