By Felix Anthony
Namchik: A roadside grotto was blessed and dedicated to Saint Joseph on March 20 to mark the Year of St. Joseph in Arunachal Pradesh’s Miao Diocese.
“I am very happy to bless this grotto and dedicate it to the Year of St. Joseph,” said Bishop George Pallipparambil of Miao. “This may be the first of its kind in India to mark the Year of St. Joseph,” the Salesian prelate said while blessing the grotto at the Namchik-Balinong junction in Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh.
The grotto is located at a major junction of roads leading to Bordumsa, Jairampur and Miao Subdivisions of Arunachal Pradesh, Jagun and Tinsukia in Assam and to Pangsau Pass in Myanmar.
“This grotto is not only going to be a landmark but an import prayer-point for the people travelling through these roads,” said the bishop.
The grotto was the response of the residents of Kharsang, a small township under Miao sub-division, to Pope Francis’ call to reflect on the silent role of Saint Joseph this year. The grotto is the result of collective efforts of the people. Senseng Jugli, a local businessman donated the land and Chumkam Thungkhang, a well-wisher of Miao diocese, offered the help with construction and Betty Joseph, a doctor of Krick and Bourry Hospital, Injan, gifted the statue.
“This indeed is a happy moment for all of us. With this grotto we are able to participate in the universal celebration of the Year of St. Joseph from the last corner of India,” said Chophasey Lisu, a public leader from Kharsang town.
The youth and women religious gathered for the blessing led the prayers with St. Joseph’s Rosary, Litany of St. Joseph and with the Year of St. Joseph Prayer.
The diocese of Miao has planned a series of animation, retreats, pilgrimage and seminars to mark the Year of St. Joseph. This roadside grotto is the first in that direction.