India: Holy Family Sisters mark 25 Years of spiritual and social upliftment
On February 15, 2025, the Holy Family Sisters in Uchagaon, Belagavi City in the Indian state of Karnataka, joyfully celebrated their silver jubilee at St. Jude's Church, marking 25 years of dedicated service.
Rooted in the Scripture, “Where are we to get enough bread in such a desolate place to feed such a huge crowd?” The journey began under the visionary leadership of the late Sister Pia, who was the Superior General of the Congregation of the Holy Family of Nazareth Sisters in Sancoale, Goa, western India, as stated in Matthew 15:33.
With the support of Archbishop Bernard Blasius Moras, Apostolic Administrator of Mysore, the sisters embarked on their mission to bring spiritual and social transformation to the Belagavi-Uchagaon area.
Arriving in Uchagaon on August 5, 1999, the sisters found a land rich in soil but spiritually barren. Despite their humble beginnings in a small rented house, their unwavering commitment to serving the community soon bore fruit.
Their mission transcended religious boundaries, as people of all faiths embraced their presence with gratitude and reverence.
Father Albert Fernandes MSFS, with 14 other priests, presided over the Eucharist, reflecting on the profound impact of the nuns’ work.
He highlighted how their relentless efforts transformed what was once a spiritually desolate place into a thriving community of faith and service.
Education has been the cornerstone of their mission, leading the nuns to establish a pre-primary school to provide quality education to underprivileged children, recognizing the hardships villagers faced in accessing schools.
Over the years, many children have grown into educated and successful individuals, a true testament to the sisters’ transformative influence.
Beyond education, the Holy Family Sisters have been a beacon of hope, addressing social and spiritual challenges with steadfast faith.
Following the charism of their congregation and the inspiration of their founder, Fr. Faustino De Souza, they have remained committed to spreading the Gospel and guiding the community toward a better future.
The silver jubilee celebration was a profound moment of gratitude and reflection, graced by Sr. Berna Rodrigues, the Superior General of the Congregation, along with past and present mission members, whose collective prayers and thanksgiving echoed the countless blessings received over the years.
Through their unwavering dedication and selfless service, the Holy Family Sisters have brought light and hope to the people of Uchagaon.
Their mission continues to inspire, reminding all that faith, love, and perseverance can transform even the most barren of lands into a flourishing garden of God’s grace.
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