A New Church for the Parish of Saint Anthony Claret in India

The 23rd of February, 2020, was a big day for the faithful of the Parish of Saint Anthony Claret in Bishrail, in the state of West Bengal, as their long-cherished dream became a reality. Not only did parishioners celebrate the silver jubilee of the establishment of the parish, they also celebrated the consecration of their new parish church, made possible thanks to the generosity of our benefactors. ACN was able to help with a contribution of $41,200.

The original, tiny chapel had been built of mud with an asbestos roof. Not only was it far too small, it had long been in danger of collapsing. It had been increasingly difficult in recent years for the parish community to come together for Holy Mass, catechetical instruction, marriage preparation classes, work with children and young people – and still more for celebrating the major feast days or their patronal feast. The alternative of holding the celebrations in the open air had likewise been difficult, especially in the rainy season and in the scorching heat of summer. 

Father Martin Soren wrote: “Our heartfelt thanks to all the benefactors of ACN for their generous financial support, which has now made this project a reality. Once again, we want to reiterate our sincere gratitude to you all. Without your tireless prayers, your help and financial support, this undertaking would never have been possible. Thank you for everything you have done us!”

Thanks to the support of our benefactors, the Catholic faithful in the parish of Bishrail can now take pride in their new church and pleasure in the fitting celebration of their liturgical life.  

Aid to the Church in Need commits to invest your funds where they will have the greatest impact for the Church that we serve. Funds donated to Aid to the Church in Need’s projects will be used towards the greatest need in our programs to help keep the Faith alive.

Code: 317-01-19