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A Meaningful Encounter at St. Louis’ Bread Centre

At St. Louis’ Novitiate in Palamaner, we, the novices, dedicated the first three months of our novitiate to laying a firm foundation for our religious life. We deepened our understanding of what it means to be a follower of Jesus in the footsteps of St. Francis. Then, we had the opportunity to put our spirituality into practice by serving those on the margins of society. We joined Friar Jaypal, the Parish Priest, and a few parishioners to distribute lunch to the needy at the St. Louis Bread Centre on the church premises.

Friar Charles Bernard, our Novice Master, reminded us that our words and actions should make our ministry at the Bread Centre not just a task but a meaningful lesson and a lifelong experience. We were sent there two by two. While serving food was easy, I soon realized that our ministry had to be more than just distributing meals—it had to be a relationship-building encounter, one that reflected the way Jesus and St. Francis met people.

I smiled at those who came, wanting them to feel that I was happy to serve them a warm meal. However, I faced a challenge—I did not speak Telugu, the local language. Seeing my struggle, Friar Jaypal taught me a simple yet powerful phrase: Bagunnara?—“How are you?” When I greeted people with this word and a genuine smile, it was like a magic key. The simple act of serving food turned into a joyful and heartfelt encounter.

As I continued serving, the people I met became my teachers. They eagerly taught me more Telugu words, laughing and encouraging me as I tried to use them. What started as a simple meal-sharing became a moment of genuine connection. The plate of steaming rice and curry, offered with warmth and kind words, transformed our time together—it was as if we were gathered at a joyful feast. Conversations blossomed, and what was once a routine service turned into a daily reunion of friends.

One day, a man arrived late for lunch. We had just finished serving and were about to clean up. Disappointed, we had to tell him, “Sorry, brother, there is no food left.” Just then, a woman who had not yet started eating stepped forward and generously offered him half of what she had on her plate. That simple act of kindness moved me deeply.

On another occasion, I overheard a man in line say to our cook, “At the government canteen, we have to pay ₹5 for lunch. But here, we receive not just good food, but love and respect—for free.”

Nowadays, it takes us longer to reach the Bread Centre. People stop us along the way, greeting us warmly, calling out Mana Thamudu—“Our little brother”—and asking us, Bagunnara? It is a beautiful reminder of the bonds we have formed.
I have come to realize that love is not just an abstract idea—it takes on flesh in kind words and good deeds. Now, I understand why Jesus, St. Francis, and saints like Mother Teresa never saw the poor as a burden. The poor give us far more than we could ever give them.

Br. Gagan

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