Bhopal (AsiaNews) - On September 25, the first church dedicated to the Blessed Chiara Luce Badano will be inaugurated in Sironi (near Bhopal, in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh). Msgr. Anthony Chirayath, bishop of the Syro-Malabar diocese of Sagar, will consecrate the new church with the parents of Chiara Luce ), "an inspiration to all students in the country”. The couple arrived from Italy for the occasion at the invitation of the bishop. There will also be many faithful and young students of local high schools, as well as groups of adherents to the Focolare Movement from Mumbai and Delhi.
Chiara Badano, named Chiara "Luce" by Chiara Lubich, founder of the Movement (or Work of Mary), is a young Italian, who died at age 18 from a bone tumor. She was beatified on Sept. 25, 2010 by Pope Benedict XVI, who recognized her heroic virtues and tireless work for the poor, despite the pain of the disease from which she suffered.
The Sironi church was dedicated to the Blessed at the express will of Msgr. Chirayath, who learned of the life of Chiara Luce during one of his trips in Italy. Having in mind the large youth population that resides in the Indian town and who attend the prestigious English schools in the district, Bishop Sagar sensed that Chiara's life could serve as an "example and inspiration for students."
The celebrations will be attended by Maria Teresa and Ruggero, the girl's parents, accompanied by Chicca Coriasco - the best friend of the Blessed - and her brother Franz, who wrote Chiara Luce’s biography. About 1,000 participants are expected including priests, religious, seminarians, teachers, high school students and young Focolare members, who are preparing performances to celebrate the event.
After the inauguration of the church, parents and friends of Chiara Luce will meet some members of the Catholic movement in Mumbai, eager to express their gratitude for the "witness of love and unity". Also in Mumbai will meet the "Jesusfriends4u" youth group, based on the example of the life of the girl, who will award the Badano’s the first prize dedicated to their daughter, the Effective Parenting Award.