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In mission with women and children in Deepalaya, Khandwa, India Accompanying women and children in a poor area of Madhya Pradesh, India, is one of hundreds of ways in which Medical Mission Sisters around the world try to be a healing presence to others today. Our community in Deepalaya, Khandwa-- a poor area of Madhya Pradesh -- consists of 4 professed Sisters and several candidates, 3 of whom made First Vows in April, 2008. Women, children, and youth are our main focus in this area. Sister Theramma Padinjaremuriyil uses a combination of allopathic and herbal remedies in our clinic, all affordable by the people. Sister Miriam Kuruvinakunnel ministers with her skills in acupuncture treatment. The Sisters prepare protein powder for malnourished children, and for those suffering with HIV and leprosy. They hold blood donation camps, eye check-up programs, and health check-up camps for anemic and malnourished children.
Sister Mary Joseph Pullattu is involved with the youth animation programs of the diocese and Cathedral parish. She has been part of the Diocesan Youth Commission and Interreligious Dialogue Commission. Sister Sabitha Kochuthazhath works with women interested in joining the Medical Mission Sisters. Our land in Deepalaya has an herbal garden and organic farmland, and relies on bio-energy. An awareness program conducted in January, 2008, for a clean environment was well-received, and immediate action was taken by government authorities.
“Inter-loaning and microcredit programs have led the people to financial independence and self-confidence,” our Sisters say. Issues-based activities, such as demand for water and electricity, have been initiated by a number of self-help groups. They also have organized supplementary education activities, and adolescent health programs. In addition, a children’s group has been formed. Our Sisters are in touch every day with the hard realities of life for these poor women and children. They say, “It is meaningful and challenging to work in a multicultural and multi-religious setting. The positive response from the people, the relationship with the government and diocese, and collaboration with non-government organizations (NGOs) sustain us, and keep us moving forward.”
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