AsiaNews.it
Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions, 150 years among women in Bangladesh
by Sumon Francis Gomes
The congregation founded by Sister Euphrasie Barbier runs orphanages, schools, women's shelters and sanatoriums in seven districts of the country. Archbishop of Dhaka: "Educated women are of benefit to the entire society."
Dhaka (AsiaNews) - The Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions (RNDM) are celebrating 150 years in Bangladesh. A Jubilee Mass was attended by about 500 local Catholics, four bishops and many priests and religious of other institutions. The event had as its theme "Treasuring our past, shaping our future." During the celebration, the participants commemorated Sister Euphrasie Barbier, founder of the congregation who was dedicated, in particular, to the apostolate of education among Bengali women.
"The sisters - said Mgr. Patrick D'Rozario, Archbishop of Dhaka - have been serving the country for over one hundred and twenty eight years with selflessness and with a deep spirit of sacrifice in favour of those most in need, especially in the education of young girls and women. This ministry is born of the conviction that women can be educated in the families and benefit society ".
Promod Mankhin, Minister for Cultural Affairs and the only Christian (Catholic) in government invited as a special guest to the celebration, , said "Manush Manusher Janna 'which means" the human being is for the human being. " "This - he explained - is the way of life followed by RNDM sisters for us. Over the years, the congregation has done and continues to do what the government should have done many years ago. "
Sister Euphrasie Barbier arrived in Chittagong, Bangladesh, March 25, 1883, along with five sisters. From that city, they have spread into seven districts, creating schools, sanatoriums, orphanages and shelters for girls. The Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions have dedicated their ministry to the poor, youth and children. In addition, the religious work for socio-economic development, paying attention to the needs of refugees, migrant workers and people with HIV / AIDS.