(The government of India apparently has placed a ban on giving out news of the pandemic situation in the country, except by those authorised by it. So, our sisters are not able to write freely. The following is an extract from a letter that came in just before the ban, sent by Sr. Mary Joseph, the Provincial of Ranchi.)

“As I sit down to pen a few lines on the second wave of Covid 19 and its negative impact on human lives in India, I am distracted and distressed by the siren of ambulances plying on the road taking patients from the hospital or to the hospital, to get them admitted somewhere for treatment. The situation is very bad and it is getting out of control day by day. The number of infected cases keep escalating, hospitals are overwhelmed, beds are not available, required drugs are not found in medical stores, oxygen supply is not sufficient… Those in authority are trying their best, but not able to bring it under control. Unlike the first wave of Covid 19, the second one is deadly and the death rate is very high. As we read news and watch on television what goes on in the country, we keep calling out to the Lord for his mercy and compassion on the world...

The departure of our two sisters in two days, victims of Covid, has devastated us… In the midst of pain, sorrow, uncertainty, anxiety and fear what we realise is there is nothing on this earth that can hold us… God alone! God has a plan for us!

At this moment we rely on the words of the Psalmist: "The Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit" (Ps. 34:18). We find solace in Revelation 21:4: “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”

We are grateful to our SCJM sisters from all over the world for being with us at this painful phase in the life of the province. We remember you for your prayerful support through phone calls, messages and consoling words. May the Good Lord bless you with good health and keep you safe under His wings!”