Neyyattinkara Integral Development Society formed a Task Force with the intention of conducting a funeral in accordance with the Christian faith and government protocol of the persons who die of Covid-19.

The inspiration for forming this Task Force is Caritas DRR Navajeevan project ‘Disaster Clinics’. 42 volunteers have been selected including four priests and imparted two trainings to these volunteers. The resource person for the training was Dr Joy John, the Co-ordinator of NHRM. In his session, he elaborately discussed regarding the government protocol in burying the dead bodies due to COVID-19.

As part of the DRR Navajeevan Disaster Clinics project Neyyattinkara Integral Development Society is also planning to impart training in Search & Rescue operations, First Aid, Camp Management and Early Warning. Thus, the volunteer team will be fully equipped to meet any challenge in future.

The official inauguration of this Task Force was conducted at NIDS office on September 9, 2020, in the presence of Msgr. G. Christudas on chair. The Bishop of Neyyattinkara Rt. Rev. Dr. Vincent Samuel officially inaugurated the NIDS Caritas Samaritan Task Force. In his message, he congratulated the team for their willingness and dedication to come forward to do this act of mercy in such a time of crisis. “Diocese of Neyyattinkara is very much happy and proud to be part of Caritas India and our Social Service Society NIDS for doing great effort to do the most helpful things to most needy.

NIDS Caritas Samaritans Task Force can do great things in our society. I assure my prayers and blessings for this great effort” said Rt. Rev. Dr. Vincent Samuel in his inaugural address. Fr. Rahul B. Anto, Director, Neyyattinkara Integral Development society welcomed the audience. “NIDS Caritas Samaritans Task Force made a great opportunity to be with the people and provide physical, medical, financial and mental help to the neediest. This Force can give great tributes to all those who lost their lives because of this pandemic. NIDS is grateful to Caritas India for the constant support during any emergencies,” said Fr. Rahul in his welcome address. Mr. Biju Antony, the Programme Co-ordinator expressed vote of thanks.

The Bishop distributed identity cards to all the members of the Task Force. Subsequently, the Bishop sent a circular regarding the availability of the service of the Task Force to all the parishes in the Diocese of Neyyattinkara. Now NIDS is planning to form parish level Task Force teams in line with the Caritas DRR Task Force which is already functioning in ten villages in Neyyattinkara.