Peace and forgiveness, two sides of Christmas among Orissa Christians

(December 24, 2009) Two years after experiencing savage persecution, Orissa Christians are preparing to celebrate Christmas with “renewed hope”. Threats from some Hindu fundamentalist groups still hang over them; the memory of the attacks, murders, and homes and churches set on fire are still alive; but the desire to celebrate the birth of Christ, who taught the value of “forgiveness” and the reassurances by law enforcement in Kandhamal district are small signs in favour of “peace and reconciliation”. The first arrests of those responsible for the violence help as well. The first major attack against the Christian community in Orissa occurred on Christmas Eve 2007. This year, in conjunction with Christmas, Hindu extremists from the Sangh Parivar are preparing two days of strikes and demonstrations (Bandh) for 24 and 25 December. Activists will carry posters and banners, calling on people to boycott Christmas. However, an atmosphere of joy is prevailing among children “who wait impatiently to celebrate,” said Augustine Singh, a lawyer for the victims of the violence. Since all problems have not been solved, celebrations will take place in tents because “churches were razed to ground.” The arrest of Gururam Patra, general secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Kandhamal, has raised a ray of hope for the Christian community.” Fr Manoj Nayak, who coordinates refugee assistance, said “signs of peace and reconciliation” are visible. Meanwhile, the authorities in Kandhamal have said that they would provide security and protection to the faithful who will participate in the various Christmas functions. Fr Praful Digal insisted that the community wants “to forget the pain, divisions and the loss of dear ones.”