Caritas India launched its Lenten Campaign 2026 at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, reaffirming its commitment to combat inequality, promote inclusion, and address growing ecological distress.

The launch event witnessed the distribution of motorized wheelchairs to five persons with restricted mobility, supported by banks under their corporate social responsibility initiatives. Among the beneficiaries was a 32-year-old daily wage worker from East Delhi, paralyzed from the waist down, who described the wheelchair as a life-changing gift restoring his independence and dignity. He said the mobility support would now enable him to seek work opportunities and better provide for his family.

Caritas India Executive Director Father R. Jesudass said the distribution marked the culmination of last year’s Lenten campaign, Chetana (Awareness), which focused on supporting persons with disabilities and promoting their inclusion in society. He thanked donors and partners for their solidarity, calling it a visible expression of the Church’s commitment to dignity and justice.

The 2026 campaign poster was unveiled by Archbishop Anil Joseph Thomas Couto. This year’s theme addresses fractured relationships, deepening inequality, and escalating ecological challenges. The campaign encourages parishes to organize peace circles, families to practice weekly acts of solidarity, and institutions to adopt environmentally responsible practices.

Administrators noted that last year’s outreach impacted over 10,500 people nationwide, with continued advocacy and expanded initiatives planned for the year ahead.

Sathyadeepam Weekly