Tucked away in the southern part of India is a place blessed with the presence of streams and forests. This rural sanctuary of Anakkampoil is home to many families who depend on agriculture for their livelihood. However, since the area is exposed to extreme flooding from prolonged rains, working-class families can lose their cash crops and other sources of income, making it challenging to provide quality education for their children.

Following a rich legacy in education, the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth in Anakkampoil strive to bring quality instruction to children in this rural area. Basic reading and math skills are the foundation for all learning. In low-income countries like India, over half of 10-year-olds cannot read or understand a simple story.

Marian English Medium School, named for Mary, the Mother of Jesus, is an English language school operated by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. It offers affordable, high-quality education to an enrollment of over 500 students. At Marian, Sisters aim to retain every child in school, assess learning levels, prioritize teaching the fundamentals, and develop psychosocial health and well-being, so every child is ready to learn. Students who graduate from Marian excel academically, ensuring economic growth for their families.

Sisters also provide pastoral care to the families of Anakkompoil through outreach ministry. This outreach includes feeding programs, visiting the sick, and after-school tutoring. The outreach programs uplift the socioeconomic status of the people and help develop the community.

The maintenance of the school has been complicated by natural disasters. The school’s classrooms and equipment need to be updated and qualified teachers retained for students. A goal to raise $33,000 to fund these needs and additional outreach programs will ensure students of this farming community experience the highest standard of education and that Sisters continue to inspire those around them through their service and dedication to God.

Will you make a donation to the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth for pastoral ministry and education at Marian English Medium School? This support of education and outreach gives children and their families a ladder out of poverty and a path to a promising future.

In all that we are and do, you are with us. For that, we are forever grateful. Know that you are always our blessing – our source of hope and joy!