As this photo of their temporary professed sisters testifies the Nazareth Sisters of Charity are alive and well… especially in India
“We Sisters of Charity of Nazareth are an international Congregation in a multicultural world. Impelled by the love of Christ, in the tradition of Vincent de Paul and the pioneer spirit of Catherine Spalding, we and our Associates are committed to work for justice in solidarity with oppressed peoples, especially the economically poor and women, and to care for the earth. We risk our lives and resources, both personally and corporately, as we engage in diverse ministries in carrying out this mission.” (The SCN Mission Statement)
A look at the list of their ministries shows how much the band of sisters is needed in this mission
SCN Family Ministries in India include:
- Twenty schools, including Nazareth Academy in Gaya, many with enrollments of 1,000-2,000 students
- Night classes for children who live in villages or slums, who work by day on farms and in factories
- Informal education in villages regarding human and political rights
- Non-formal education for village children
- Education of mentally and physically challenged children
- Adult literacy programs
- Two hospitals which provide modern health care including care of HIV/AIDS patients
- Village clinics and health centers offering care to those who would not have access to care otherwise
- Mother-Child Clinics
- Pastoral ministries in numerous parishes in twenty dioceses
- Retreat work
- Youth ministry
- Rehabilitation for women victimized by prostitution and innovative programs for their children
- Education of village health workers in attending births
- Hospital outreach programs
- Education of women in marketable skills for cottage industries
- Education and organization of women in self-help methods to obtain women’s rights, prevent domestic violence, and improve family health
- Education and active involvement in environmental issues
Tags: India, Nazareth, SCN, Sisters of Charity, Sisters of Charity of Nazareth
