Simplicity, Frugal Lifestyle and Committment

Our friend, Micheal, died peacefully on Sunday, 22nd February. Requiescat in pace. Over the past few years, he gave a lot of himself to this part of India, and, by his own admission, received much more than he gave. Perhaps there is a particular meaning in his life's journey ending in a place where he served generously and received much in return. I don't think anyone who spends some time among the ordinary people of this place remains untouched or unchanged. Perspectives alter, and one feels a very nourishing kind of spirituality.

I have been very impressed by all the sisters,brothers and priests whom we have met here over the past few weeks. Several things strike me:

They live a very frugal life. Their living conditions are very basic. Often they live in very remote areas.

The sisters in particular put everything they have into running the services they provide; schools, children's homes, dispensaries, etc.

In one parish we visited the priest told us the weekly collection is about 60 rupees; less than €1. He gets 6,000 rupees from the Diocese every month to pay for his own upkeep, running of the church, paying the catechist and the cook. That is about €100.

Most of the religious and priests seldom take time off from their work; financially they have little to spend, and to live is to work. But they express a lot of happiness and contentment even living in the midst of difficulties and challenges.

The warmth of welcome and the generosity of hospitality from all the sisters, brothers and priests whom we met on our daily travels has been quite exceptional.

It's very interesting from our perspective to meet so many young sisters, brothers and priests. Many sisters are in their 20s, and many priests and brothers in their early 30s. So there are still many people coming forward. In the Diocese of Vellore (where we spent most of our time), 10 priests have been ordained each year for the last three years!

Those we have met have very often advocated very strongly, and without apology, for the needs of their people. One can only admire that, even if our resources in Child Aid Ireland are now more limited, especially for capital projects. Often the need is for something relatively small: a bore well, providing drinking water, beds for a dispensary, etc. These needs will be easier to meet.

What more can you say about them? They live simply and happily. They are very committed to what they are and do. And often they are very vibrant and lively people, and very good company.