Fr. Rebenie Madar, MHM, is a Mill Hill Missionary serving in southern Pakistan. He wrote to us about a tragic fire that occurred in their chapel and school the day after Christmas and is appealing for help..
Holy Family Primary School has been a great blessing to the Christian community in New Christian Colony, Tando Muhammad Khan, Sindh, Pakistan, since its establishment on August 1, 1994. The institution was founded by Rev. Fr. Patrick McCaffery of the Columban Missionary Society, who was dedicated to providing quality education to children in the area. After the Columbans completed their term, the Mill Hill Missionaries took over. The school currently serves approximately 90 children from various faith backgrounds.
This school is not just a place for learning—it also serves as a church for the local community, combining faith and education under one roof.
After a joyful celebration on Christmas Day, a tragedy struck the following day December 26, when a fire destroyed the church section of the school and severely damaged the classrooms. This disaster has left the students without a place to study and the community without a proper venue for Sunday Masses.
Currently, only the principal’s office has survived the fire. Due to the circumstances, we had to temporarily suspend the classes. An assessment will be conducted soon to determine the necessary repairs.
While waiting for the full repairs, we urgently need help to create temporary classrooms for the children and a place to celebrate Sunday Mass. These will help the students continue their studies in a safe environment and gather the faithful to pray together.
Despite the challenges, the community’s faith and determination remain unshaken. With your help, we can restore Holy Family Primary School as a place of learning and worship, bringing hope back to this community.
I sincerely appreciate your prayers, kindness, and support. Thank you.
Fr. Rebenie, MHM
