We, the 2nd-year novices, had a golden opportunity to go for Village Exposure to Sheikhpura. We were divided into six groups, staying in six different villages: Pain, Deule, Chandi, Lodipur, Chunnipur, and Manipur. In July, we had five days of social analysis with Sr. M. Jyotisha, which helped us understand our world realities. This preparation was crucial for our upcoming exposure.
On September 9th, we set out for Sheikhpura, accompanied by Sr. M. Vijita. Upon reaching Sheikhpura, we were warmly welcomed by the sisters, MSK (Mahila Shiksha Kendra-Centre for Women’s Education) children, and the staff. Sr. M. Udaya organized a five-day orientation program for us, which was invaluable for our ministry. On September 15th, we moved to our respective villages with our animators.
The families in the villages were incredibly hospitable and welcoming. We were deeply enriched by their simple lifestyles, generosity, and love. During our stay, we kept ourselves busy by teaching marginalized children and extending our helping hands to needy families. People shared their joys, sorrows, and pains with us openly. They appreciated our way of living, our willingness to share knowledge, and the time we spent with them. We had the joy of meeting elderly and sick individuals who needed listening hearts and words of consolation. In these moments, we became little Jesuses of Nazareth to the people around us. We shared gospel values through our behaviors and small acts of charity.
We thank Srs. M. Amala, Sujita, Jyotisha, Udaya, Deepika, and Sushma for their guidance and dynamic sessions, which helped deepen our relationship with God in our mission. All these experiences helped us integrate our lives and mission, leading to inner transformation.
We experienced a deep sense of gratitude to God for granting us this unique and unforgettable experience with such simple people. Though we come from similar backgrounds, this experience was completely different and unique. It has helped each of us see the reality of the poor more clearly.
We are deeply grateful to Sr. M. Alice, Provincial Superior and the team, and the Novitiate community—Srs. M. Deepti, Neelima, Rekha, Vijita, Sabeena, and Ajita—for providing us with this wonderful opportunity and making all the necessary arrangements for our village stay.
by Dreamhost