by Father George Dabreo for BISMumbai

The COVID-19 lockdown in Ahmednagar indeed had very serious consequences. The safety of the people was ensured, yes, but many were in great distress as they lost their jobs and others who depended on daily work, had a very tough time. The Church has also remained closed as per directives. In these turbulent times, the Mumbai Salesians at St. Anne’s Ahmednagar and Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra [BGVK] reached out to those in need.

The poorer parishioners in 45 families were aided with food-rations in July. To satisfy the spiritually hungry, Communion services are regularly held in groups of 05-06 members. Many people also visit the grotto individually, to pray to Our Lady. The priests are available to listen, to support and also to encourage the parishioners. In order to take Jesus Christ to the parishioners, Sunday Holy Eucharist in Marathi is shared online via YouTube. Also, Daily Reflections on the Word of God – Deva tujhe shabda, amcha adhar is shared online for the benefit of the parishioners. Many parishioners are using these reflections in their daily family prayer. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABSulpU_8cM&list=PLqheOIK66K6rKzFzgJOShKHXMzlMGh0eC ]

PArish priest Father Augustine Pereira also inaugurated the Parish Facebook page of the parish. Through this, the parishioners are updated and also involved in various apostolates in the parish. As per the requirements of the parishioners in the present situation, the Parish is actively reaching out to those in need.