On 25 April, Bangladesh Rehabilitation and Assistance Center for Addicts (BARACA) hosted the Most Rev. Kevin Randall, Apostolic Nuncio, for a visit. Established in 1988 by the Brothers of Holy Cross and supported by Caritas Bangladesh since 1989, BARACA has been a beacon of hope for individuals struggling with addiction and an inspiration and model for similar centers throughout the country.

In addition to a welcome address by Br. Nirmal Francis Gomes, C.S.C., Director of BARACA, which covered the history and accomplishments of the center, Archbishop Randall and Br. Ripon J. Gomes, C.S.C., Superior of the St. Joseph Province, spoke in gratitude and support of BARACA’s mission.

A highlight of the day’s program was the celebration of “Clean Birthdays”—a term used to commemorate the anniversary of individuals’ recovery from addiction and their commitment to a drug-free life. Four recovering individuals, along with two guardians, two vulnerable street children, and two adults, shared powerful testimonies about their journey from addiction to healing and how BARACA played a transformative role in their lives.

Learn more about the work of Holy Cross at BARACA

A commemorative tree was planted to mark the apostolic nuncio’s visit and celebrate the many national awards that BARACA has received, including second place in 2024 among drug rehabilitation and recovery centers.