Rising floodwaters in Bihar brought destruction and uncertainty, along with a call to solidarity. In response to the needs of people affected by the flooding, members of the Patna Archdiocese met Monday, Sept. 7, 2026, at St. Xavier’s B.Ed. College in Patna. Sisters Elsy Kotteriyil and Priyanka Murmu attended.
Representatives of religious congregations and institutions shared information about conditions in the affected areas and discussed how the Church could respond. They planned a three-phase effort, beginning with immediate help for families most in need.
Communities and institutions were invited to collect biscuits, soap, jaggery, salt, sattu (roasted gram flour) and water purification tablets. Nazareth Academy in Mokama, Nazareth Academy in Gaya, Holy Family Hospital in Kurji, Arunodaya and the Provincial House joined the effort. SCNAs, staff, trainees, parents, students and sisters worked together to gather the supplies. Arunodaya trainees and sisters also volunteered to sort and pack them. The work was tiring, but they found joy in serving others.
Within days, the appeal had become a shared response to people in distress. Holy Family Hospital plans to hold medical camps as the floodwaters recede. Through the generosity of many, needed supplies began reaching families affected by the floods.
Thank you, Sisters!!!