2,000 Participate in International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Believers Church Patna Diocese observed the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3rd December 2012. The diocese organized an event at J.D. Women’s College in Patna, where 2,000 college students and faculty participated. “Removing barriers to create an inclusive and accessible society for all,” was the theme chosen by the UN for 2012.

Believers Church recognized the day by organizing various cultural programs, music, choreography and awareness campaigns.

Shri Sahid Ali Khan (Minority Welfare and Information and Technology Minister, Government of Bihar) inaugurated the program by lighting the traditional lamp. He lauded the sincere efforts of Believers Church to deliberately love and care for the disabled.

Bishop M.A. Lalachan said, “When an individual becomes disabled, he faces two major challenges: First, he must learn the skills and techniques which will enable him to carry on as a normal, productive citizen in the community; and second, he must become aware of and learn to cope with public attitudes and misconceptions.” He noted that it is high time to realize that allocation of resources to the disabled is an investment, rather than mere charity or medical expense.

Special guests attending the program included Smt. Poonam Devi (MLA), Dr. Usha Singh (Principal of J.D. Women’s College), Smt. Rashmi Rekha (Principal of Govt. Higher Secondary School, Shastri Nagar), Mr. Devesh H. Lal and Dr. Rekha Mishra.

Smt. Poonam Devi appreciated the church for practically following the teachings of Jesus by choosing to care for the neediest of society.

Believers Church distributed gifts to 217 families struggling with disability and poverty. The free items included tricycles, blankets, sweaters, sewing machines, thelas, rickshaws and bicycles.

People with disabilities make up an estimated 15 percent of the world’s population. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of the disabled. Helping those with disabilities is just one of many causes Believers Church pursues.