In a heartening display of interfaith appreciation, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently celebrated the vital contributions of the Christian community in India. This gesture of acknowledgment occurred during a special interaction with Christian leaders on December 25th, commemorating the Christmas festivities at his official residence in New Delhi.
During this significant meeting, Prime Minister Modi, who has led India for a decade, highlighted the integral role of the Christian community in shaping the nation’s history, including its struggle for independence. He reminisced about the Christian intellectuals and leaders who left an indelible mark on India’s freedom narrative, citing Mahatma Gandhi’s acknowledgment of Sushil Kumar Rudra, the then-principal of St. Stephen’s College, in the conception of the Non-Cooperation Movement.
The Prime Minister’s speech also touched on the Christian community’s active involvement in societal betterment, particularly their dedication to serving the underprivileged and their significant strides in the fields of education and healthcare.
In the spirit of Christmas, Prime Minister Modi extended warm holiday greetings to the Christian community and expressed his gratitude for their participation in the event, which was organized in collaboration with the Indian Minority Foundation. He reflected fondly on his long-standing relationship with the Christian community, tracing back to his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, and his memorable interaction with Pope Francis in 2021.
Modi emphasized the discussions he had with the Pope, which spanned topics like social harmony, global brotherhood, climate change, and inclusive development. He noted the alignment of these discussions with the values embodied by Jesus Christ, particularly those of compassion, service, and the pursuit of an inclusive society where justice is accessible to all.
The Prime Minister drew parallels between the teachings of the Bible and the philosophies inherent in Indian culture, like those found in the Upanishads, underscoring the universal value of truth and service. He called for a united front, built on these shared values and heritage, to propel India into a brighter future.
Looking ahead to India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, Modi stressed the critical role of the youth and the importance of their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. He urged the community leaders to support initiatives promoting fitness, nutrition, and the fight against substance abuse.
In the spirit of Christmas, a time traditionally associated with gift-giving, the Prime Minister advocated for a commitment to sustainability, aligning with the principles of Mission LiFE. This global movement, spearheaded by India, encourages a sustainable lifestyle, focusing on recycling, the use of biodegradable materials, and a minimal carbon footprint. Modi expressed his confidence in the Christian community’s significant role in this eco-conscious mission.
The event was graced by prominent Christian leaders, including Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop Anil Couto, Bishop Paul Swarup, St. Stephen’s College principal John Varghese, Father Kevin J. Kimtis, second secretary of the Vatican Embassy, and Bishop Thomas Mar Antonios of Gurgaon Syro-Malankara Church among others, marking a moment of unity and mutual respect across religious lines.
Subscribe to WhatsApp News Updates:
Follow Syro Malankara Updates on Google News:
