by Christopher Sharma

Celebrating its Silver Jubilee, the Catholic organization emphasizes the value of a work that follows the teachings of the Church's social doctrine. For the apostolic vicar it is a time for "sanctification" and to rethink the "future endeavors". A job that has garnered the respect of authorities and citizens.

Kathmandu (AsiaNews) - Caritas Nepal, established in 1989, is celebrating 25 years of life and service to the poor and needy in the country, according to the rules set out by the Gospel. Speaking at the celebrations for the Silver Jubilee of the apostolic vicar of Nepal Msgr. Simick Paul spoke of " is a time of sanctification, liberation and radical returning to God, of rejoicing for the grace received, of assessment of the past and of the renewal of all activities for the future". The prelate, who is also patron of the Catholic institution, added that "this jubilee celebration" is an opportunity to " appreciate the wonderful journey through the last 25 years in establishing God's presence in this beautiful country of Nepal by serving the Church and the society especially poor and marginalized" in agreement "with the teachings of the Church's social doctrine".

The Vicar Emeritus Msgr. Anthony Sharma recalled the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi, in which the saint asked the Lord to make him "an instrument of peace", to give faith, hope, joy and light. The Executive Director of Caritas Nepal Fr. Pius Perumana urges growth in the name of "solidarity" and recalls their "growing presence" in terms of social service. "Caritas Nepal - he says - will never fail when it comes to responding to the needs of the poor and marginalized".

In all these years, the Catholic organization has operated throughout the country, in diverse areas gaining respect and recognition among social institutions, from its response to emergency activities to the realization of long-term programs. Their work was already applauded by the late king Birendra Bir Bikram ShahDev, who granted Caritas recognition in 1997.

The main sectors in which it operates are agriculture and adaptation to climate change, cooperation and business, socio-economic projects, the building of peace in the country, the prevention of gender-based violence and human trafficking . It also works in providing assistance and aid in cases of natural disasters, projects in schools and support for migrant workers returning to their country of origin. Their projects have benefited millions of people.

About 150 thousand Christians (0.4%) live in Nepal - a nation of 26.6 million people - of which 8 thousand are Catholics. Before the fall of the monarchy (2006) Hinduism was the State religion and ruled the lives of every citizen. The proclamation of a secular state guaranteed religious freedom, but the minorities - especially Christianity - still suffer harassment and threats from the majority community. The Hindu population is often at the center of incidents of discrimination and violence against women and marginalization of the poor. There are also allegations - by Hindus, and sometimes even Buddhists - that Catholics and Christians try to convert people by force or by offering them money.

 

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