Catholic Council of India (CCI) Meet Focuses on Peace and Harmony

(October 28, 2010) The top representative body of the Indian Church met in Mumbai seeking ways to build peace in the country in the backdrop of some “forces” spreading violence among communities. “We should look at the situation in the country from a long-term perspective,” said Cardinal Oswald Gracias of Bombay October 26, opening the meeting of the Catholic Council of India (CCI). The CCI national executive, the highest representative body of bishops, Religious and lay people in the country, meets for two-days. The impact of country’s socio-political situation on the Church was its focus. Cardinal Gracias, president of CCI and national bishops’ conference, said the nation has witnessed “lots of positive signs” in the recent past. But at the same time the nation also witnessed tension in some areas. “We need to reflect and see as to how to respond to these effectively,” he said. The leaders expressed concern at the “continuing” anti-Christian violence in some parts of India such as Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh states. They also discussed ways to check Maoist-related violence in some parts of the country. Speakers addressing the meeting said Christian leaders have duty to offer our service of peace and reconciliation. Church leaders should study the trends and signs to intervene in conflict situations and build a peaceful society, they said. The meeting also discussed plans to strengthen CCI for effective functioning at the regional level so as to help it bring up leaders who can respond effectively to socio-political realities of India. CCI comprises of representatives of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, Conference of Religious India, lay organizations. It also has lay representatives from all dioceses in the country.