Group of 25 students from a parish in Italy came to visit Sumanahalli – Fathers from Precious Blood Congregation who has helped to build Ave Maria. Both Fathers who came today Fr Alessandro and Fr Mahimae were involved with the work here as students.
They were very glad to understand the work of Sumanahalli and interacted with the inmates.
They Came to Visit… But Left with Something Far More ValuableItalian parish youth discover that compassion, dignity, and hope are the greatest gifts shared at Sumanahalli LRTC.
Sumanahalli LRTC was delighted to welcome a group of 25 students from a parish in Italy for a meaningful day of learning, sharing, and fellowship. Accompanying the students were Fr. Alessandro and Fr. Mahimae of the Precious Blood Congregation, whose long-standing relationship with Sumanahalli made the visit especially significant.
The Precious Blood Congregation has played an important role in supporting the construction of *Ave Maria*, and both Fr. Alessandro and Fr. Mahimae have a personal connection with Sumanahalli. As young seminarians, they spent time here, participating in the mission and experiencing firsthand the spirit of service that continues to define the institution today. Returning years later with a new generation of young people was a joyful and emotional homecoming.
The visit began with an introduction to the history and mission of Sumanahalli LRTC, where the students learned about the organization’s commitment to restoring dignity and hope to people affected by leprosy, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and other marginalized communities. They were deeply moved to discover how Sumanahalli has evolved into a vibrant community that focuses not only on healthcare but also on education, rehabilitation, livelihood, and social inclusion
As they toured the campus, the students visited various vocational training units where residents develop skills that enable them to lead independent and productive lives. Witnessing the craftsmanship, dedication, and resilience of the beneficiaries gave the visitors a greater appreciation of the transformative impact of empowerment through opportunity.
One of the most memorable moments of the day was the interaction between the students and the residents of Ave Maria. Conversations, smiles, songs, and the simple gesture of offering flowers created a beautiful atmosphere of warmth and friendship. Language differences quickly disappeared as kindness and compassion became the common language shared by everyone present.
The students spent time listening to the stories of the residents, learning about their journeys, and sharing moments of joy together. These personal encounters left a lasting impression on both the visitors and the residents, reminding everyone that genuine human connection transcends cultural and geographical boundaries.
Reflecting on the visit, Fr. Alessandro and Fr. Mahimae expressed their happiness at seeing how Sumanahalli has continued to grow while remaining faithful to its mission of serving the most vulnerable. They were pleased that the students could witness not only the challenges faced by the community but also the hope, resilience, and love that define life at Sumanahalli.
For the young visitors, the experience was much more than an educational tour. It became a lesson in compassion, dignity, and service—an opportunity to understand that even small acts of kindness can make a profound difference in someone’s life.
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As the day concluded with group photographs and heartfelt farewells, everyone departed carrying cherished memories and a renewed commitment to building a more compassionate and inclusive world.
The visit of the Italian parish group stands as a beautiful reminder that when people come together with open hearts, they build bridges of friendship that cross cultures, languages, and generations. Sumanahalli LRTC is grateful to Fr. Alessandro, Fr. Mahimae, and the 25 students for spending this special day with the Sumanahalli family, and we look forward to welcoming them again in the future.
