By Fr Nathaneal George for BIS Mumbai

“Sacred art… is directed to the infinite and seeks to lead a person’s mind devoutly to God” (cf. Sacrosanctum Concilium, 122). Renovating a church is not just about improving a structure; it brings people together and reflects a shared desire for renewal and growth in faith. The newly renovated facade of St Anne’s Church at Ahilyanagar is a striking sight and leaves a strong impression on all who see it.

The story of the parish goes back to 1986, when William Falcao SDB and a few pioneers began their work in what was then known as Ahmednagar, starting at St John’s, Bhingar, the main parish in the cantonment area. Over time, the numbers in the Catholic communities grew, and in time 1992, they succeeded in acquiring land that once housed the Sacred Heart Convent School. This campus later became the site for the present parish church.

St Anne’s Parish was established to serve the people of the town of Nagar, many of whom were connected to the Army Cantonment at Bhingar. Over the past three decades, the parish has steadily grown from modest beginnings into a vibrant Catholic community.

When McEnroe Lopes SDB took charge as Rector and Parish Priest in May 2025, he was faced with the reality that the church needed renovation. The inclement weather puts the best structures to the test. The idea quickly gained support among parishioners, many of whom had already felt the need for such work. The renovation began in December 2025 and included improvements to the sanctuary, interiors, as well as civil and electrical work.

On April 25, 2026, the parish marked an important milestone. The Sacrament of Confirmation was administered to 34 students from the parish and nearby villages, and the church was blessed by Barthol Barretto, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Nashik. The occasion was attended by Ashley Miranda SDB, the Provincial and other invited guests. This day also marked the first Mass in the renovated church after several months.

When asked about the experience, Fr McEnroe simply said that people deserve a place where they can meet God in prayer—a space that helps them participate more fully in worship. He expressed his happiness that he was able to contribute to the parish life in this way. The endeavor stands as a sign of the community’s faith, their trust in God’s providence, and a reminder that the Church continues to grow and renew itself over time.