As many of you will already be aware, the Pannur region of India has recently been devastated by flooding. We do all we can to respond to respond to emergency situations wherever there is a Jesuit presence on the ground but here in Wimbledon we have been blessed with a particularly special relationship with the Pannur region and its Dalit people.

Sacred Heart Parish and Wimbledon College have already done so much down the years to support this already marginalized and impoverished community. Fr. Maxim, Superior of Manvi Mission, one of the largest and most heavily affected, has sent out an urgent plea for emergency support.

He describes the flooding as one of the worst disasters to face the region in the last forty years. Water levels have reached fifteen feet and the riverside village communities are all but completely submerged. As well as the crippling loss of loved ones, possessions, shelter and livestock, those displaced are also having to contend with the increased danger of disease and poisonous snakes.

No government agency has performed any assessment of the damage in these areas and no formal relief programme is currently in place. When aid efforts do begin these Dalit communities are certain to be only an afterthought or, more likely, ignored altogether. We can however, assist the Dalits during these extremely difficult times.

All donations are very welcome and Fr. Maxim is keen to stress that even small contributions can make a real difference. Male and female clothing is available at only a couple of pounds, as are sheets and bedding mats. A family tent can be purchased for just £7. Please do whatever you can in support of this pressing and worthy cause.

As the situation is so urgent and pressing, we have decided to dedicate all of the funds raised by the parish’s Annual Cake Sale (6 December) to those suffering in Manvi.

On the previous weekend (28/29 November) we shall have the annual appeal for Jesuit Missions at all the Masses. The Director, Fr. Tim Curtis SJ, has decided to earmark all funds raised over the weekend to this urgent cause. Please be generous as you can.

Jesuit Missions
11 Edge Hill
Wimbledon
SWI9 4LR

www.jesuitmissions.org.uk

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