Nuncio tells Indian Christians to unite

(December 07,2010) The Apostolic Nuncio to India, Archbishop Salvatore Pennacchio has urged Christian denominations in the country to be united to witness Christ . “Our divisions are contrary to the will of Jesus and they disappoint people’s expectations,” the papal representative told some 300 Church leaders in Pune, western India. The Catholic diocese of Poona organized the recent ecumenical meeting on the theme “Followers of Christ, Unite.” Archbishop Pennacchio said differences in doctrines and theological perspectives have hindered Christian unity. “Christ knew that there would be differences among his followers. But he also knew a day would come when we would try to resolve the discord, disagreement and division,” he added. The Nuncio welcomed ecumenical interaction and dialogue taking place in various parts of the country and added that openness to the truth would hasten Christian unity.
Bishop Thomas Dabre of Poona said the Christian unity was a top priority for the Catholic Church in India. “Division among Christians is a wound on the body of Christ,” he said. The prelate said he has received excellent collaboration from all Christian denominations after he took over the diocese eight months ago. Poona diocese also held an inter-faith dialogue on the theme “Religion for development and peace” a few days ago. More than 400 Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and Buddhists attended the program.