The Bala Yesu Franciscan Ashram at Dondapudi in West Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh in the diocese of Eluruwas canonically established as a Friary on 13 June 2001 on an area of eleven acres of land donated by Bishop His Grace John Mulagada of Eluru together with the Shrine of Bala Yesu and the residence for the Friars. Fr. Joe Palukunnel was appointed the first Superior and Parish Priest. Fr. Joseph Cilia, Provincial Custos, blessed the Friary on 28 June and on the same day Bishop John Mulagada presided over the Eucharistic celebration in which he officially handed over the parish to the Custody. This day also marked the beginning of the Andhra Mission.
Fr. Ugolino Xerri, Missionary Promoter of the Maltese Province, blessed the foundation stone of the Bala Yesu Hostel on 14 November 2002. It was inaugurated by Fr. Joseph Cilia, Provincial Custos and blessed by Bishop John Mulungada of Eluru on 25 August 2003. Another important undertaking of the friars here is the running of Greyfriars Junior College for the surrounding villagers.
Address
Bala Yesu Franciscan Ashram
RCM Church, Dondapudi – 534 318,
West Godavari Dt.,
Andhra Pradesh, India
Tel. (0091 8811) 255493
| Canonical Decree: | June 13, 2001 |
| Beginning of the Presence: | June 13, 2001 |
| Patron: | Infant Jesus |
| Diocese: | Eluru |
| Rite: | Latin |
Community
|
|
|
Fr. Justine Koonamparayil Guardian & Parish Priest |
Fr. Jacob Kurishummoottil Member |