CBCI: Bombay Cardinal deplores anti-Christian films, launches Prayer Crusade

(May2,2006) Bombay Cardinal deplores anti-Christian films, launches Prayer CrusadeCardinal Ivan Dias , Archbishop of Bombay in India’s western State of Maharashtra, has deplored recent big and small screen films, which “distort history and are extremely offensive to Christian principles and practices” and urged for a prayer crusade. A circular issued April 30 says that
in recent times, big and small screen films on Christianity have been produced, which distort history and are extremely offensive to Christian principles and practices. Some fabricate tales about the life of Jesus Christ, who is most dear to the heart of every Christian, and is respected even by persons of other faiths; or treat with ridicule those, who are laudably giving selfless and a much appreciated service to God and humanity. We strongly deplore the tendentious nature of these films, which sadly reveal the morose mindset of those responsible for their production, says the circular. However, we are confident that the members of the competent Film Censor Board will not ignore the sentiments and reactions of many, who are deeply pained by the scandalous presentations, also because they can negatively affect the harmonious relations existing between Christians and the other religious communities which make up our beloved Motherland. Believing that “more things are wrought by prayer than the world can dream of”, we exhort the Catholic faithful in the Archdiocese of Bombay to pray during the parish Masses, at meetings of ecclesial associations and communities, and in their family and personal prayer, to ask God to forgive those who do not realize the seriousness of their offences against Him and their fellow-citizens, and to enlighten those who are evil-minded so that they may change their behaviour.