Asia’s Largest Statue of Christ Unveiled in Arunachal Pradesh; First Cathedral Erected

(May 6, 2010) Asia's biggest statue of Jesus Christ was unveiled in Miao in Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh along with the opening of the first Cathedral in the state, May 2, 2010. The dedication service and mass was led by Cardinal Telesphore P. Toppo. Archbishop Thomas Menamparampil of Guwahati, Archbishop Domnic Jala of Shillong, Bishop Joseph Aind of Dibrugarh local Bishop P K George and Bishop Victor Lyngdoh of Noigstoin concelebrated with over 60 other priests. During the dedication ceremony, the newly erected two- storied Cathedral was blessed by Cardinal Toppo. About twelve thousand people from different parts of Arunachal Pradesh, besides Christians from the neighbouring states thronged to the Cathedral. The colossal 12 metre high statue of Jesus Christ was unveiled by the State's Finance Minister Setong Sena. Located on a hill top in the upper colony area of Miao, the church overlooks the whole town. “This towering figure of Christ overseeing the whole of Miao, with open arms, invites everyone to seek peace and live the way of love” said Bishop P K George. Bishop George is the first Bishop of the four year old Miao diocese. Pope Benedict XVI erected the diocese of Miao on December 7, 2005. The Catholic population of East Arunachal, which falls under Miao diocese, is approximately 70,000.