Screening of “Face of the Faceless” Held for Faithful of Akola and Washim Zones of Amravati Diocese

Akola, Maharashtra, April 5, 2025 — The Diocese of Amravati hosted a special screening of the inspiring film Face of the Faceless on April 5 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel School Auditorium, Akola. The film portrays the life and martyrdom of Blessed Sr. Rani Maria. The screening was organised for members of the faithful from the Akola and Washim zones of the diocese. Nearly 570 people attended the screening which was held to deepen the spiritual commitment of the faithful through the medium of faith-based cinema.

The event was graced by the presence of several dignitaries, including Rev. Bishop Malcolm Sequeira of the Diocese of Amravati; Dr. Shaison P. Ouseph, director of the film; Sr. Prabha, Provincial Superior of FCC Amala Province, Bhopal; Sr. Starly, former Provincial during the time of Sr. Rani Maria’s martyrdom; and Dr. Sr. Rachita, Superintendent of Dayasagar, Amravati.

The event began with a warm felicitation of the dignitaries, followed by a short speech by Bishop Sequeira, who highlighted the significance of Sr. Rani Maria’s witness and the importance of sharing her story with the faithful. The gathering then stood to sing the Indian national anthem.

The screening of the film captivated the audience, who were visibly moved by the powerful portrayal of Sr. Rani Maria’s fearless love, service, and ultimate sacrifice. Many expressed a renewed sense of spiritual purpose and admiration for her Christ-like forgiveness and courage.

Following the screening, Dr. Ouseph and Sr. Prabha delivered brief but heartfelt reflections, thanking Bishop Sequeira and diocesan leadership for bringing the film to local communities. They emphasised the importance of continuing to share stories of modern-day saints and martyrs to inspire faith and resilience.

In his concluding remarks, Bishop Malcolm expressed heartfelt appreciation to Fr. Joselin, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and Director of the Diocesan Media and Communication Team, for his exemplary coordination of the event.

The evening concluded with a vote of thanks, followed by the blessing of food and moments of fellowship among attendees.

The screening was part of a diocesan-wide initiative that began on April 4. The campaign reflects the efforts of the diocese to share the story of Blessed Sr. Rani Maria — a woman of unwavering faith who gave her life in service of the poor — with a broader audience.

The screening of the film at Akola served as a reminder of the power that visual storytelling holds in renewing faith and connecting communities.

By Mr. Nelson Alphonso

Media Coordinator,

Diocese of Amravati