Chapel strengthens sense of unity among villagers

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries constructed the Mawiong Chapel in the Rangblang Parish, located in the West Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya, India, thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco.

Mawiong Rangblang is a rural village where most families depend on farming and daily wage labor for their livelihood. The community faces several challenges due to its remote location and limited resources. For many years, the Catholic faithful did not have a proper place where they could gather regularly for prayer and religious celebrations.

The completion of the Mawiong Chapel was made possible by the dedication of skilled workers and the continuous support of the local Catholic community. Through this project, the chapel was constructed and furnished with the essentials needed for liturgical celebrations. These include the altar, seating pews, basic liturgical items for the celebration of Holy Mass, a crucifix behind the altar, two life size statues on either side of the crucifix and other items. The furnishings beautified the chapel and prepared it for regular liturgical celebrations.

A Salesian said, “The new chapel serves as a spiritual center where families can come together to deepen their faith. The chapel has strengthened the sense of unity among the villagers and has become a place where important moments of faith such as baptisms, prayer services and community gatherings are celebrated. For the people, the chapel is not only a physical structure but also a symbol of hope, faith and the presence of the church in their village.”

Sister Joyceline Lyngkhoi expressed her joy on seeing people coming together and actively participating in the construction of the chapel. She recalled, “Before this chapel it was difficult for the community to gather in such a small place for prayer, which made it difficult for everyone to participate fully in religious celebrations. There is great joy in seeing the chapel completed. We all sincerely appreciate the donors whose support made the project possible, and we will continue to keep them in our prayers.”

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India