Bangladesh: Rajshahi Diocese organizes annual pilgrimage for persons with disabilities

The Diocese of Rajshahi, in collaboration with the social action arm of the Catholic Church in Bangladesh, held its annual pilgrimage for persons with disabilities (PWDs) at Saint Joseph’s Parish from March 20 to 23.

This event, aimed at fostering hope and spiritual renewal, carried the theme: "I keep alive the light of hope that never loses."

A total of 204 disabled individuals, along with their guardians, volunteers, and nuns from various parishes within the diocese, participated in the four-day pilgrimage.

The event was graced by the presence of Bishop Gervas Rozario as the chief guest and Mr. Md. Sadikur Rahman Mandal, Upazila Social Service Officer of Niamatpur Upazila, as the special guest.

Other distinguished attendees included Holy Cross Bishop Theotonius Gomes, Father Patrick Gomes, Father Louis Sushil Pereira, Father Joachim Hembrom, Father Sagar James, and Dr. Arok Toppo, Regional Acting Director of Caritas Rajshahi Region. Many laypeople representatives from Caritas Bangladesh and local authorities were also in attendance.

During the event, Bishop Rozario emphasized the inherent dignity of all individuals.

"We are all special children in the eyes of God. In some way, we all have disabilities, and we must treat one another with love and respect. Families, governments, and society as a whole have a role to play in upholding the dignity and rights of people with disabilities," he said.

Bishop Gomes elaborated on the pilgrimage theme, stressing that individuals with special needs are part of God's divine plan.

"We are all members of the same family. These children with special needs are born under God’s special plan, and by serving them, we serve God and bring ourselves closer to Him," he said.

Father Gomes reflected on "Spirituality and Morality" and shared insights about the upcoming Jubilee Year in 2025, as declared by Pope Francis.

The priest reminded participants that they are "Pilgrims of Hope" and urged them to remain morally upright and avoid arrogance and pride. "We should never mistreat our disabled brothers and sisters but rather show them love and affection," he added.

One of the disabled participants shared her gratitude, saying, "Though I cannot walk, I have found a beautiful place here, and the sisters take care of me. Through them, I constantly experience God's love in this beautiful world."

The pilgrimage included various spiritual and moral formation activities, such as prayers, adoration, the Way of the Cross, confession, a foot washing ceremony, a light procession, sports, cultural programs, and the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

Bangladesh is home to an estimated 16 million people with disabilities, making up around 10 percent of the country's population. While government support programs exist, they remain limited in scope and are largely restricted to urban areas.

In rural parts of the country, perceptions of disability remain negative, often viewed as a curse resulting from parental misdeeds. Such stigmatization further isolates individuals with disabilities and limits their opportunities for full participation in society.

The Diocese of Rajshahi's celebrated annual pilgrimage serves as a beacon of hope, reaffirming the importance of inclusivity and spiritual nourishment for individuals with disabilities.

The event underscores the Catholic Church’s commitment to uplifting marginalized communities and promoting a more compassionate and just society.