It is with deep sympathy and sadness that we report the death of Michael Van Gelder, Paul's father, who died on Friday, July 31, 2009, aged 81.

Paul , SISP's founder, rushed back to Belgium to be with his father. He was grateful to have had a few hours with him so that he, his mother and the family, could say farewell to his loving father.

All friends, supporters and volunteers in India, Belgium and around the world extend their sincere sympathy to Paul, Werner and family.

In India, there was a small memorial service at the SISP centre in India on the day of the funeral - August 5th. The children, young people and staff sat on the ground around a photo of Paul's father while Head Teacher, Mr. George, led a time for reflection. Many sympathetic emotions were voiced in this sad farewell. At the end of the service everyone offered flower petals to a photo of Michael Van Gelder as a sign of reverence and respect. Afterwards there was a simple lunch and everyone returned home.