Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Kathmandu (Agenzia Fides) – Twenty years after its foundation in 1989, Caritas Nepal has extended its work for the poor and marginalized. As local Church sources tell Fides, in celebrating its 20th anniversary, Caritas Nepal opened a new office in the capital city of Kathmandu, in a ceremony attended by Apostolic Vicar Anthony Sharma of Nepal. The new structure will be more efficient and effective in Caritas' work, improving the coordination with other offices in parishes throughout the country. The organization has also opened a new office in Narayanghat, west of the capital, which will serve all of western Nepal.
“The mission of evangelization for the Church in Nepal is carried out through works of charity,” the Apostolic Vicar explained during the event. Caritas Nepal, in collaboration with Caritas Internationalis, has the intention of reinforcing its own work and offering a testimony to the people of Nepal, contributing to the human and spiritual growth. Bishop Sharma highlighted that the Church has always shown herself to be “a community at the service of others” and thus, has won the esteem of all the social, political, and religious groups present in Nepal.
In addition to the great commitment in the area of education (the Church runs 27 schools in the country), the Church in Nepal works through Caritas in various kinds of social services, for the poor, sick, and marginalized. The Bishop comments: “We were the first to start caring for mentally disabled and handicapped children, of which there are many in this country.” Today, the three Catholic centers work full time in their service. Caritas works to improve the life of women and offer them an education through formative and social programs, having a great impact on society. The thankfully free service for physically and mentally handicapped (there are over 1.5 million in the country) is greatly appreciated. The health services offer treatment to many people. Thus, the Church is appreciated by everyone. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 5/10/2009)
