The long awaited day dawned for the Province of Mary Help of Christians – Kolkata (INC) as we ventured courageously into Odisha state that witnessed the worst anti-Christian violence, seven years ago. The cherished dream became a reality when Don Bosco gave this special gift to his daughters on 16^th August 2015. Archbishop John Barwa of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar opened the Auxilium Convent at St. Sebastian’s Parish, Kurtumgarh, 317 km west of Bhubaneswar, capital of Odisha state, on August 16, when the  Salesian world celebrated the birth centenary of our father and  founder St. John Bosco.

Provincial Sr. Rose Ezarath and other 7 sisters who were present for the inauguration along with the archbishop, other priests and religious of the archdiocese and political dignitaries were ceremoniously welcomed by the parishioners with drums and bands, garlands and shawls. The solemn lighting of the lamp and the Eucharistic celebration were part of the grand and unexpected celebration.

About 1500 people, including Hindus and Christians of other denominations attended the opening event and shared the fellowship meal which was beautifully organised by Fr. Jugal Kishore Digal, parish priest.

On behalf of the archdiocese Most. Rev. John Barwa welcomed the Sisters whole heatedly and wished them a fruitful ministry for the development of the people and building up of God’s Kingdom and exhorted the faithful to cooperate and collaborate with the sisters.

Provincial who was present for the occasion said, “I feel extremely happy the way people welcomed us. They are very open and cordial. It is an indication which shows that they are happy to have our presence. With our presence, our passion for Da Mihi Animas and our educative charism we will be able to do something beautiful for the people of Kandamal – Kurtumgarh.”

Sr. Annie Thevarkunnel, the Province Economer added, “The reception of our presence was very beautiful and devotional. People are good, enthusiastic and simple. I have great hope in this new mission of ours because we have lot of opportunity to incarnate the charism of Don Bosco and Mother Mazzarello to the young people.”

The three pioneer sisters Sr. Teresa Xalxo, Sr. Shanti Tirkey and Sr. Sabita Nayak will begin to spread the charism of our Institute actively involving themselves in the apostolic ministry of the parish church.

By  Sr.Mini Chettayil