Sacred Heart Church, Raigad: A Testament to Faith and Fellowship

Mumbai, Jan 11, 2025: The Sacred Heart Church in Roha, situated in the heart of Maharashtra’s Raigad district, is more than just a physical structure. It represents an extraordinary journey of perseverance, faith, and unity that began with three families and a shared dream.

Mani Mandapathil, a native of Kerala, had arrived in Roha (roughly 125 km south of Mumbai) in 1963 to work in a paper mill. Little did he realize that he would, over the years, become a catalyst for what would grow into a vibrant Christian community in the city. Speaking to Matters India, Mani recalls his early days in Roha, saying, “We had nothing but our faith."

By 1965, Mani found companions in V.D. Joseph and Jacob. Together, they formed what he calls “the first Christian triangle” of Roha. Every Sunday, this small group traveled 35 km to Korlai for Mass – a journey fraught with logistical challenges but one that deepened their bonds.

“Sometimes, we weren’t sure if we would find transportation back,” Mani laughs, “but we never missed a single Sunday.” Their unwavering commitment caught the attention of priests in Korlai, who then began visiting Roha to celebrate Mass in their homes.

Mani’s group saw two new members joining in the 1970s - P.P. Bardeshkar in 1976 and Antony Fernandes in 1977. Together, the group started to conduct weekly prayer meetings at their residences. 

Recognizing the spiritual needs of the flock in Raigad, the Archdiocese of Bombay, in 1989, assigned the Jesuits to minister in the region. Jesuit Father Gussi Frederick Sopena emerged as the pioneer of the mission, working with 40 families scattered across Roha, Kolad, Bhira, and Kolety. That same year, the arrival of the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus marked the beginning of an organized social outreach in Raigad.

In 1991, the dream of a dedicated church took root with the purchase of land in Varse. After months of construction work, on June 26, 1992, Bishop Thomas Dabre inaugurated the new church before a gathering of 200 people. 

The impact of the church soon extended beyond its walls. The Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, later joined by the Jeevandhara Sisters, reached out to over 70 tribal villages, focusing on education, women empowerment, and healthcare.

As years passed, the parish flourished, becoming a center for spiritual and social activity. Divided into seven zones, it now hosts weekly prayer meetings, youth programs, and community outreach initiatives. The youth group of the parish leads several initiatives ranging from choir service to social projects.

From three families to a thriving parish, from home Masses to a beautiful church, the story of Sacred Heart Parish, Roha is a powerful reminder that small acts of faith can lead to extraordinary achievements.

As the community looks ahead, they carry forward the legacy of their pioneers—one built not just on stone and mortar, but on unyielding faith and the strength of fellowship.

Source: Matters India