From what we have seen and heard so far, the year 2020 deserves to be termed annus horribilis. The scourge of COVID-19, the economic meltdown, the loss of jobs, the neglect of human rights, the endemic poverty, the spiral of destructive violence, the threat of war, etc. have cast a pall of gloom over our minds. But it has been famously said that the darkest nights produce the brightest stars.

As far as the Diocese of Allahabad is concerned, the director and staff of DDWS and their collaborators have been real stars. They have impressed me with their unflinching commitment to the cause of integral human development and their compassion towards the poor, the vulnerable and the disenfranchised.

Responding to COVID-19 they reached out to 10350 persons with psychological support, dry ration kits, food through community kitchens, sanitizers, masks, hygiene kits, etc. Praiseworthy were their door to door visits to identify those in greater and urgent need of help and their awareness building campaign for different age groups such as groups of children, adults and senior citizens.

I express my appreciation and thanks to the members of the advisory board, staff, sponsors, well wishers, allied NGOs, governmental departments, including local self government authorities and funding partners involved in the implementation of various programmes held during the year. I acknowledge the lead given by the Diocesan Development and Welfare Society in different areas under the able leadership of Fr. Babu Francis the director.

May this Annual Report be a source of joy, information and inspiration to the friends and benefactors, partners and well-wishers of DDWS!

Rt Rev. RAPHY MANJALY
Bishop of Allahabad