Appeal to mark Indian Christian Martyrs Day

August 25, 2012: An ecumenical forum in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh has appealed Christians in India to observe Aug. 26 as "Indian Christian Martyrs Day."

The Madhya Pradesh Isai Mahasangh has promoted the idea of the annual commemoration to pay tribute to those who have died for their faith, starting with St. Thomas the Apostle.

The Bhopal-based Mahasangh initiated the Martyrs Day after anti-Christian violence erupted in Odisha four years ago.

The appeal, signed by the Mahasangh's official, asked people to offer Mass and organize blood donation camp on the day.

“By donating blood we want to send a message that the blood of Christian believers can give life to many," it explained.

The appeal also asked people to pray especially for Christians of Khandmal district in Odisha who died for their faith during the 2008 violence.

The Mahasangh members are organizing prayer service on Sunday for the Indian Christian Martyrs in Madhya Pradesh, the appeal said.

The Mahasngh is a federation of various Christian groups in the central Indian state. It tries to coordinate the groups for more effectiveness and help identify efficient Christian leaders, train them and help them to get into public life.