By I P Sarto

Burdwan, March 6, 2020: The social arm of Asansol diocese in West Bengal state has started a center to care for the special need children.

The center named “Roshini” (light) was opened on March 4 at Ekpere, a village about 140 km northwest of Kolkata, the state capital.

Asansol Burdwan Seva Kendra (ABSK) started it with assistance from various national and international aid agencies to care for abandoned children and those who require special care for their well being.

Congregation of Jesus Sisters Joyce, Gladys and Joselette moved in with 14 children to the new building. This is the congregation’s new community in the diocese. Initially they will look after children the center adopted according to the government norms. Later they will turn the center as a shelter home for boys and disabled children in collaboration with ABSK.

“We are happy to start this community,” said Sister Kiran, the head of the Patna province, who was present for the center’s opening.

Sister Joyce, the superior of the new community, told Matters India that “Roshini” is their first community in Asansol diocese.

Her companion, Sister Joselette, who was involved in social works for the past 15 years, said they are happy to look after the children and their “smiling face gives strength for us to face challenges of new culture, new situation and new effort.”

Allan Shenoi from the USA helped Asansol diocese to buy 6.2 acres of land in Ekpere village for children’s welfare.

This project is financially supported by the Women and Child Development Department.

Although the building was blessed by Bishop Cyprian Monis of Asansol on November 13, 2019, the sisters could not move in with the children because of the delay in getting the government approval. The approval came on March 3.

The sisters could then move in with the children, said Father Wilson Fernandes, the brain-behind the project.

ABSK director Father Arbind Tirkey said Roshini says the major portion of the building was supported by Father Fernades’ friends when he celebrated the silver jubilee of his ordination in 2018.