Trichy: The women group of Puthupunal (Fresh Waters) and St. Alphonsa, the Youth girls of Our Lady of the Healer Church, Karumandapam, Trichy organized a Christmas get together with the villagers of Vadasserry women in Karur district, Tamil Nadu. Vadaserry village is a Hindu populated area. Most of the women are widows and abandoned by their husbands.
The women are the bread earners of the families. These women go out to help other women who are in similar conditions or worse than them, said Lobidas, a consultant and a social worker works among these families. He formed different women into groups. The purpose of the program was to share that Christmas is a season of love and sharing.
It is a time when people forget their differences and go out of themselves and reaching out to touch the lives of others. This happened 2000 years ago when Archangel Gabriel announced the good news to Mother Mary. It was after receiving the Good news Mary reached out to her cousin Elizabeth to help her. It was when the angels proclaimed the birth of Jesus to the shepherds.
According to Jessy, coordinator of the women group, a Christmas message was given. The youth girls and women enlightened through their songs and dances. They also shared gifts with each other. The Vadaserry women also presented some cultural programs. All the women went to visit each other’s family. Father K. Charles conducted games and prizes were distributed.
“It was a great experience for me. These people live pathetically but they do not complain. Though they live in utter poverty, they welcomed me happily says,” Janet Ruth, member of St. Alphonsa Youth Girls. “I am a widow with three girls to be looked after. I joined the Self-Help Group in the village. I am happy to help others especially those who are poorer than me,” said Mariamma. Father Charles, parish Priest, and Lobidas, the coordinator of the women self- help groups in the village Puthupunal Women group and St. Alphonsa Youth girls organized the program.
“Jesus Christ was born for all of us. He did not exclude anyone from the Kingdom of God. All are welcomed to share and celebrate his birth,” said Teresa Lizy. MattersIndia
