Welcome to a story of hope and compassion!
The Conference of the Diocesan Priests of India (CDPI) has embarked on a mission to lend a helping hand to families in Manipur who have been torn apart by recent communal and ethnic conflicts.
As part of their 2024 National Council Action Plan, the CDPI has initiated a housing rehabilitation project aimed at building new homes for displaced families. Each unit is estimated to cost around Rs. 4 lakhs (approximately $4,900 USD), according to a report by Catholic Connect.
The project has officially kicked off this month with the goal of raising sufficient funds to provide homes for internally displaced families.
In a bid to fund this noble cause, the CDPI National Council has introduced the ‘Minimum of Rs. 500 to Manipur’ challenge, urging each diocesan clergy member to contribute at least Rs. 500 (around $6.10 USD) towards the project.
Inspired by St. Paul’s teachings on generosity, the challenge emphasizes cheerful and heartfelt giving, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 9:7.
Regional executives of the CDPI are currently organizing meetings across diocesan units to spearhead a two-month fundraising campaign through July and August 2024.
The funds raised will be handed over to the Archdiocese of Imphal under the oversight of the CDPI Presidents. The collaborative effort between the national team and the Imphal Archdiocese aims to complete the housing project by February 2025, ahead of the next CDPI National Council.
Bishop Varghese Chakkalakal, the patron prelate, has given his endorsement to the project, urging earnest cooperation from all clergy members.
To ensure transparency and accountability, detailed reports of contributions will be shared among the clergy.
This initiative is not just about rebuilding physical structures but also about strengthening the bonds within the priestly fraternity and making a tangible impact on the lives of those affected by the riots in Manipur.
Last year, Manipur witnessed the highest displacement due to conflict and violence in South Asia, accounting for a significant portion of the total displacements in the region, as reported by the Geneva-based Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC).
Communal violence in Manipur escalated in 2023, leading to widespread displacement in the state. The conflict originated from protests in Churachandpur district and spread to other districts, resulting in mass displacement and tragic consequences.
Despite the challenges, the CDPI’s housing rehabilitation project offers a ray of hope for the affected families in Manipur. Through unity, generosity, and compassion, the priests are working towards rebuilding lives and fostering a sense of community.
Follow the journey of love and support as the CDPI endeavors to make a difference in the lives of those who need it the most.
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