Project of the Month - May 2024 - Catholic outreach programme in Bangladesh
Almost 90% of Bangladesh's 170 million people are Muslims. Christians make up a tiny minority, well under 1%, and they generally belong to disadvantaged ethnic minorities.
This is the case in the diocese of Rajshahi in the northwest of the country. It is home to over 20.4 million people, of whom just 71,000 are Catholics. Additionally, they belong to the so-called Adivasi, or members of various indigenous ethnic tribal groups. Most have limited educational opportunities, and while today the majority can at least read and write—a significant sign of progress—most remain poor and are forced to work as day laborers, small traders, or subsist on what little they can farm. Drought and climate change further complicate their lives.
The diocese has devised an educational program, partly to help the laity deepen their faith by learning more about the Gospel and Church teachings, and partly to better understand their rights within society and to articulate these rights more effectively. Human rights, the strengthening of Christian values, the fight against human trafficking, child protection, the dignity of women, prison ministry, and other topics such as migration and coping with extreme climate conditions—are all important issues addressed from a Christian perspective. Various groups participate in the program—almost 8,000 people in total, including local leaders and parish workers who are being trained to educate others locally, and youth. However, all this requires funding.
Father Sagor Corraya from the local justice and peace committee is seeking our assistance. He writes: "I am firmly convinced that you will extend a helping hand to us. Without your help, it is completely impossible for us to continue our program. This loving support will enable all our people to receive a good formation in the faith. I pray for you all during my daily celebration of the Eucharist."
Our goal in Australia and New Zealand is to raise $5,000 to help this project.
Can you help support new programs in Bangladesh?