“Greetings of peace and joy in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,” writes Fr. Iluri, a priest of the diocese of Nellore, India. “Heartfelt thanks for the great help you have been and continue to be to the Infant Jesus Community, one of the mission stations of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Parish.”

The community prayed for God’s provision in the corona pandemic, and they see God answering through the Barnabas Almsgiving Fund. “Seventy-six poor families received help from your generosity. We see beautiful smiles on the faces of poor children; they are happy and grateful to you.”

Fishing is the livelihood of many people in Nellore. The diocese provided tin boats to allow for fishing in deep waters, notably increasing catches. The bishop is constructing houses for seven families: five are completed, and the others are up to roof level. The diocese also provided new tires for a family’s motorbike and a gas stove for the village catechist.

Many people have “tasted real Catholicism” and are helping one another and praying for one another. This has been a great witness, bringing people to Baptism.

One man, who used to laugh at people going to Mass, fell sick in his old age, with his legs swelling up. Doctors and local soothsayers could not find the cause of his ailment. Someone suggested he go to Church and pray to Jesus. The whole community prayed for him for some days, and he was healed. The miracle led him and his family to Christ.

A woman’s eye was closed and blinded due to illness. The whole community persevered in prayer for some weeks. Slowly her eye opened, and she regained her sight.

A boy named Joseph was suffering from a hole in his heart. With much prayer, and with funds from Barnabas, Joseph had a successful operation in November 2020.

Fr. Iluri closes: “The diocese is very grateful for your magnanimous heart, extending hands to the poor.”