Good Samaritans in My Moment of Need

A Testimony of Faith, Friendship and God's Providence

“The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.” (Hebrews 13:6)

God often sends His help through the hands of ordinary people. The night of January 16, 2026, began as an ordinary family gathering but unfolded into an experience that reminded me of the true meaning of faith, friendship, and service. My brother had recently returned from Canada, and after what felt like an eternity apart, we were finally able to spend some good time together with our parents. After a heartfelt time together, we went our separate ways. But in the midst of it all, my brother unknowingly left the scooter parked in Koramangala with the key still in it.

The next morning, I received a call from an anonymous number. The caller addressed me by name and informed me that my scooter was missing. He mentioned that local residents had reported suspicious activity involving a group of youngsters and that the vehicle had come to the police's attention. He asked me to wait for half an hour for further instructions.

Panicked and disoriented, I didn't know how to respond. But one name immediately came to my mind — Akash Thomas Palliparambil. Little did I know back then that this incident was meant for a greater purpose.

MY SMYM DAYS

My name is Rose Maria Richard, and I belonged to Holy Family Forane Church, Hongasandra, Bengaluru. I was an active member of the Syro-Malabar Youth Movement (SMYM) for as long as I can remember. Much of my time was spent at church, volunteering and taking on several leadership roles that shaped my religious and personal life. SMYM also gave me friends who are like family. But as years passed by, balancing career demands and personal commitments alongside SMYM responsibilities became difficult. Gradually, I had to step back from active involvement. Although we grew apart, the memories and values we shared stayed closer to my heart.

ONE CALL AWAY

Akash Chettan was the former president of SMYM. He was like a brother to me who was always one call away. Even though we hadn't spoken in a while, I reached out to him in that moment of panic. I was overwhelmed and could barely explain what had happened. Although he was not in Bangalore at the time, he immediately reassured me that I was not alone and that he would handle it. That reassurance helped me calm down.

FAITH IN ACTION

Within minutes, Akash Chettan contacted the members of the Samaritan ministry of Mandya Diocese, and immediately, Sharon Joe Thomas, who also was an SMYM member and a dear friend of mine, contacted me and informed me that he had already spoken to the Circle Inspector at the Koramangala Police Station and briefed them about the situation. He asked me to remain calm and be at the police station if required.

A police station was never a soothing sight. I felt anxious and intimidated, but as I stepped out after speaking with the officers, I saw familiar faces waiting for me — members of my SMYM family, along with the Samaritan Ministry team including Advocate Akash from Koramangala Parish and Edwin Sojan from Ejipura Parish, ready to support me. Special thanks to my SMYM friends Sachin and Sharon.

THE CONFRONTATION

Soon after, the anonymous caller contacted us again and instructed us to come to Shivajinagar. While there was a sense of relief in having a lead, I was still worried that the scooter might already have been dismantled or lost. The Samaritan team under the leadership of Jisso Chettan and Vincent Joseph contacted the higher police officials and coordinated the mission. Accompanied by a police officer and supported by the Good Samaritan team through constant communication and live location tracking, we agreed to go to Shivajinagar.

After that, everything felt like a whim. The individual who had contacted us was eventually identified and apprehended by the police. Investigations revealed that he was involved in multiple criminal activities and was found in possession of a knife and illegal substances. By the grace of God and timely intervention from the authorities and the Good Samaritan team, the situation was brought under control. Most importantly, my scooter was recovered without any damage.

A HEART FULL OF THANKS

Looking back now, I realize that recovering my scooter was only one part of the story. What I behold the most would be the unwavering support I received from the Good Samaritan team and my SMYM family. Under the calm and decisive personal presence and guidance of Rev. Fr. Jomon Kolenchery CMI, the Director of Samaritan Ministry, they stood by my side through everything and imparted strength to me throughout. From the police station to the journey to Shivajinagar, they remained with me at each step, reminding me that I was never alone in the process. Thank you, Good Samaritan Ministry, thank you SMYM family, for being friends in my need. May God bless this ministry.