Mary Mother of Compassion Parish – Panbari

Mary, Mother of Compassion Parish, Panbari, in the Diocese of Bongaigaon, was officially opened on April 8, 2013. The mission was carved out from the existing parish of Bijni. On the same day, Fr. Ronesh Narzary was installed as the first Parish Priest by Most Rev. Thomas Pulloppillil, Bishop of Bongaigaon.

The Catholics of the parish mainly belong to the Bodo community and are spread across three villages: Thaisobari, Mwinaguri, and Amlaiguri. The parish has around 350 Catholics from 55 families. Following the canonical erection of the parish, the community witnessed remarkable spiritual growth with 60 adult baptisms, 30 child baptisms, 100 confirmations, and 40 First Holy Communions.

The faithful actively participate in the life of the Church, regularly attending Holy Mass, Confession, and parish programmes. Although the villages are economically and educationally backward, efforts such as the formation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and awareness training in various skills through FAsCE India have helped improve the community’s outlook towards social and economic development.

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Sisters of St. Joseph of Annecy

The Sisters of St. Joseph of Annecy (Bhubaneswar Province) joined the parish on January 26, 2014. They actively collaborate in the pastoral and educational ministries of the parish, contributing significantly to the growth and development of the local community.