Indian Christian leaders appeal for unity among Churches
January 28, 2013 - Indian Church leaders from various denominations have appealed
for unity among Churches for better understanding and collaboration in nation building.
“Sitting in one platform today itself shows that we are growing in unity, there is
momentum hence we should not break it,” newly installed Archbishop Anil Couto of Delhi
said. The prelate was addressing an Ecumenical Symposium organized by the Delhi archdiocese’s
Commission on Ecumenism and Inter-religious Dialogue in the national capital on Jan
25, the final day of the annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity that the followers
of Chrsit observe worldwide. It was also the eve of India’s Republic Day. Some 50
people participated in the meet based on the theme “Ecumenical Symposium in the Unity
Octave”. Father Dominic Emmanuel, spokesperson of the archdiocese, explained to Ucanews
that the symposium was part of a series of programmes they have planned to celebrate
the Year of Faith. Archbishop Couto said that it is the mandate from the church and
our duty to come together and grow in faith as well as nation building. He encouraged
the religious as well as the laity to come forward to build a better understanding
and collaboration among Christians. Rev. Monodeep Daniel of the Church of North India
acknowledged there have been inherited differences among Christian Churches in India
in the past, but should be united around the same Jesus and leave the past behind.