Visit to Bankura

Emma Dalby :- This weekend myself (Diocese of Derby, UK), Austin (Diocese of British Columbia), Akino (United World, Australia) and Sally (Eastern and Western North Carolina Episcopal)  were hosted by Reverend Amiya Das and Mrs.Santa Das at the Bankura Interfaith Community Study Centre, Central Church Compound, Bankura. The day started with a tour of the Diocese’s campus where we were interested to see the fantastic educational centres established there. The Diocese, provides education to students of all ages from primary school right through to college and has both boys and girls campuses.

This was followed by a tour of the Bankura Christian College, getting a closer insight into the facilities and courses offered to students. We were introduced to several members of staff and given a copy of their Appropriations to take away with us, showing a real insight into the quality of education provided at the college. In the evening we were treated to a lovely programme by the children currently studying at the IFCS centre. They performed dances, sang and demonstrated their Tae kwon do skills, continuing inside, despite the rain! The talents of these children really showed through,and their joy in performing their skills to ourselves and their families was evident in all of them. 

Sunday morning began with a service at the Christian Danga village church. All of us were really touched by the reception given to us by the congregation, who welcomed us through Kirtan with playing many Indian musical instruments; it was a really joyous way to start our worship together. The service itself was uplifting, the dedication and commitment of the community showing throughout. Austin Spry had been invited to deliver the sermon at the service and spoke to us all on our calling not to judge one another too quickly, rather to support one another through love. 

After the service we were treated to performances from the children from the Sunday school, the youth choir and the woman’s fellowship who all performed a wide and celebratory range of song and dance.  On returning to the Reverend’s home, he took us to visit the homes of the children and families supported by the Interfaith Community Study Centre. The children live within a slum area just behind the centre, with few, if no amenities, cramped living conditions and lack of access to any services. However, my overwhelming feelings when visiting this area, where life is a daily struggle, were that of a loving, welcoming and joyous community. Everyone we met was pleased to see us and readily invited us into their homes to share in their family life. Coming from a country where a sense of community and openness to others is fast diminishing, it was very touching to be part of a community very much alive.