Nepal prepares for Christmas, despite threats

(Dec. 21, 2011) All of Nepal is preparing for Christmas, despite threats from Hindu fundamentalist groups, and both Christians and Hindus are exchanging greetings and gifts, said the Jesuit Superior of Kathmandu. Fr. Lawrence Maniya told AsiaNews on Tuesday that "For Nepal this Christmas means to reconcile the different parts of society to bring peace and prosperity." Fr Maniya, who has been working with small Christian communities of the Himalayas for 35 years said - "Reconciliation among political parties, religious and ethnic groups is a must for the country. Therefore, we offer our prayers for national reconciliation”.
According to the Jesuit Superior, only some people are a threat to the country's harmony. Among these, the Nepal Defence Army (NDA), the unofficial armed wing of the Hindu extremist groups, who try to frighten Christians and other minorities. Fr. Lawrence said "I do not blame Hinduism itself - but only those fundamentalist groups which are present in many societies. These must be punished, to bring a reconciliation between Hindus and non- Hindus. We should act together, united for the country's development and economic prosperity. Meanwhile, we continue to serve society without fear,” he added.