By Fr. Ashit Toppo –
Ranchi: Continuing its charity work during this extended difficult phase of corona pandemic, the Archdiocese of Ranchi in the state of Jharkhand reached out to the settlements of Barsa, Patracholi and Khesharo villages to support the needy people.
The ration distribution was done today in these three settlements, which are 18 kilometres away from Ranchi city and located in Nagri Block, where most of the families are farmers and their life is dependent on seasonal farming. Now is the time for plantation and there is a shortage of ration in their houses.
Ajay, a social activist, welcomed and thanked Archbishop Felix Toppo SJ for his presence in the village. He also informed the Archbishop about the village set up and people’s conditions. Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, along with members of Ranchi Catholic Youth planned ration distribution in these villages.
Under the leadership of Archbishop Felix Toppo SJ and with the help of Kuldeep Tirkey and others, the people of the three villages- Barsa, Patrachouli and Khesaro, were gathered in Basra and distributed dry ration to more than 215 needy families of the area. The families received 15 days’ ration of rice, pulses, gram, soybean and cooking oil.
Kuldeep Tirkey told the people that ration is a loving gift from the Catholic Church, made possible by the generosity of the benefactors of the Church. Archbishop Felix Toppo underlined that the Catholic Church caters the needs of the people and seeks to help those in need. He requested the people to pray to God for the benefactors. Archbishop Felix prayed for God’s protection and grace over people.
Ajay thanked the Catholic Church and said that the services rendered by the Church during this pandemic are commendable and a model of charity work which we should adopt and practice in our localities. Father Ashit Toppo, Xavier, Vinay Ranjit Topno, Naval Tigga, Luis Bada, Amrit, (Catholic Youth) Sabeer Lohra, Shahveer Lohra and local leaders helped in organizing and distribution of ration.