Persisting in service . . .

On the occasion of completing 78 years as citizens of a free country the Orthodox and Protestant Christian community in India, as always and despite all odds, commits itself to persist in service to the nation.

Recognising the travails and the sacrifices of the generation that lived through the struggles of the freedom movement, we salute the generations of people who continue through toil and struggle to protect the independence that was dearly fought and wrested.

That peoples of all communities, ethnicities and faith affiliations fought shoulder to shoulder in securing freedom from colonial rule is recognised and celebrated. Resisting the occupiers, almost every one celebrated the freedom born at midnight – that which they dreamt of for over a century.

Attacks from all quarters to transgress boundaries of nations abound in different forms and continue to undermine the sovereignty of the peoples of countries around the globe.

In India we have tried to deal with these in the recent past by amending finance laws and those that relate to internal security. We have tried to balance trade deficit ; we have incentivised and promoted in-country manufacturing; we have also tried to step up exports of quality goods and services. We have grown as a major player in the world arena both in economics and in global geo -political positioning.

In the race to emerge as a global player we had to contend with dissatisfaction and discontent back home. In a bid to assert ourselves we passed new stringent legislation and amended old ones to tighten ‘internal security’.

We cannot however escape the truth that this process has unfortunately led to the alienation of the less privileged and minority communities leading to mutual suspicion of communities and a growing mistrust in general. Despite these setbacks communities have held together and faced challenges with greater resolve than ever before.

On the august occasion of the anniversary of the Indian Independence we join all those well meaning citizens of this country, of all faith and ideological communities, in committing to a common future in which no one is left behind and life of every one beginning from the least of all is affirmed to flourishing.

It is our desire that everyone is counted, the rights of all affirmed, justice knows no favourites, all communities are represented proportionately and adequately, and rules are written or rewritten not on majoritarian terms but as just and fair to all.

We commit as citizens first and second to none, wilfully adhering to the Christian faith on account of a constitutional right available to all citizens irrespective of caste and creed, to ‘persist’ in service to all peoples in general and to the last, the least and the lost in particular.

We commit to voice our concern, and add constructively to all similar voices that speak up for the transgressed and the violated. We look for strengthening the role of the masses in governance, the much cherished sovereignty of the least.

We affirm that “nobody’s free unless everybody’s free” (Fannie Lou Hamer). We continue to echo for everyone, with Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, “Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it”.

God bless India

Jai Hind !

Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary NCCI

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Leaders of NCCI Member Churches Affirm Commitment to Unity, Condemn Attacks on Christians

Hyderabad, 5 August 2025

Leaders of the Protestant and Orthodox Churches within the fellowship of the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) convened in Hyderabad for a historic conclave — the first of its kind in the 111-year history of the NCCI — to reflect on the common ecumenical pilgrimage of the Churches in India. The meeting was convened under the leadership of the NCCI.

The leaders engaged in substantive deliberations on a range of pressing issues, most notably the alarming increase in targeted attacks against Christians across the country, often carried out with impunity. While unequivocally condemning these acts of violence, the leaders expressed gratitude to all individuals and groups who stand in solidarity with, and accompany, the affected communities.

The conclave reaffirmed the urgent need to strengthen ecumenical engagement at the grassroots level — fostering stronger bonds of relationship among individuals and communities, nurturing mutual respect for diverse faiths and ideologies, and upholding the constitutional freedom to profess, practice, and propagate one’s faith. The leaders reiterated their call for the repeal of all so-called Freedom of Religion (anti-conversion) laws, noting that there is no evidence of conversions within the Christian community through force, fraud, or allurement. They emphasised that existing legal provisions are sufficient to address any such alleged incidents.

The assembly voiced deep concern over the 75-year delay in amending the 1950 Presidential Order to make it religion-neutral, thereby ensuring that all communities listed as Scheduled Castes can access their rightful entitlements without discrimination based on faith.

Recognising the moral imperative to address gender-based violence, the leaders pledged to work collaboratively to eradicate such violence, protect the dignity of all people, and ensure a life free from coercion and manipulation. They also committed to ensuring that young people in the Church and in society are given a meaningful present and empowered to build a hopeful future.

The meeting underscored the importance of acknowledging the contributions of tribal and Adivasi communities to nation-building. Churches were urged to create spaces to celebrate their achievements, commemorate tribal leaders, and ensure the inclusion of Christian tribal and Adivasi peoples in all decision-making bodies of churches and their institutions.

On matters of war and conflict, the leaders called for concerted, positive initiatives to end hostilities worldwide, respond to humanitarian crises, and promote lasting peace.

In all these areas of ecumenical public witness, the leaders affirmed the NCCI’s commitment to its relationship with the Roman Catholic Church and the Churches in the fellowship of the Evangelical Fellowship of India through the National United Christian Forum (NUCF) — jointly mandated by the NCCI, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), and the EFI — to provide a strong, authentic, coordinated voice of the Christian community in India.

This historic gathering witnessed the participation of the leadership of NCCI Member Churches, both in person and through appointed representatives.

Rev. Asir Ebenezer

General Secretary, NCCI

Press Release

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Shibu Soren: an epitome of political engagement for social change

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Shibu Soren, widely known as “Dishom Guru” (meaning “Guru of the land”), was a towering figure in Indian politics, particularly revered by the Adivasi communities of Jharkhand. His life’s work was dedicated to championing the rights and welfare of tribal people, making him a significant role model and leader for the community.

Shibu Soren’s activism was born from personal tragedy and a deep-seated desire to fight injustice. After his father was allegedly killed by moneylenders, he dedicated his life to battling the exploitation of tribal communities. He launched the “Dhankatni Andolan” in the 1960s, a grassroots movement where he mobilized tribals to reclaim their land from moneylenders and landlords. This movement earned him the respect and title of “Dishom Guru” from the Santhal community. Soren was a pivotal figure in the long and arduous struggle for a separate state for the tribal population of the Chotanagpur and Santhal Parganas regions. In 1973, he co-founded the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) with A.K. Roy and Binod Bihari Mahato.

The JMM became the leading political voice for the demand for statehood, and after decades of agitation, Jharkhand was finally carved out of Bihar on November 15, 2000. Soren’s leadership was instrumental in this achievement, fulfilling a long-cherished dream for the region’s tribals.
Throughout his political career, which included multiple terms as a Member of Parliament and a three-time Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Shibu Soren consistently raised his voice for the rights of tribal communities, the poor, and other marginalized sections of society. His political journey, though marked by some controversy, was largely seen as a testament to his unwavering commitment to his people. He was seen not just as a politician but as a symbol of dignity and resistance for many rural tribal families. Shibu Soren’s life is a story of turning a fight against oppression into a political struggle for self-determination. He inspired Adivasis to not only resist exploitation but also to embrace education and abandon social ills. For many, his legacy is one of hope and empowerment, demonstrating that political power can be rooted in community and used to protect the rights of the underprivileged.

Soren’s role in relation to tribal Christians and Churches is highlighted by his support for their activities and his view on religious harmony.
During his time as Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Soren was said to be welcoming of the Church’s initiatives to serve the poor in remote areas. He acknowledged the Church’s role in the development of the region, specifically in bringing education and healthcare to tribal people. The Christian community in Jharkhand reportedly prayed for him during his illness and mourned his death, highlighting his contributions to the statehood movement. A prelate also noted that Soren treated everyone equally, regardless of religion, and fought against divisive forces to protect minorities.

Mr. Pradip Bansrior

Executive Secretary, Comission on Tribal/Adivasi

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Chhattisgarh Nuns Case: Government of India Intervention Sought

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Repeated attempts to secure the release of the arrested nuns in Chhattisgarh have proved futile. Leaders from the Churches in India as well as those in the civil society have condemned the arrest of the two nuns in Chhattisgarh last Friday and demanded their immediate release. The leadership of the National Council of Churches in India echoes these sentiments and calls on the Government of India to hear the call of the Indian Christian Community and URGENTLY intervene in this and several such instances of actions against members of the Christian community, both in the practice of faith and the discharge of their ministerial calling.

It is common knowledge that it is the essential calling of the Christian Communities individually and jointly, also through their Churches and Christian organisations their staff and the faithful, to be involved in such humanitarian work the world over and mostly among communities that are historically discriminated and socially disadvantaged. It is unfortunate that such acts motivated by love for fellow citizens from weak and vulnerable communities, and often aimed at aiding the States initiatives including schemes such as ‘beti balchão beti padao’ to address those who are falling through the gaps, is sought to be criminalised.

Media is filled with news of violence against Christians in different parts of the country. Most of these attacks are on Christians that are simply practicing their religion, the religion of their choice, and congregating in designated places for peaceful conduct of prayers. In almost all cases the Christian Communities have been doing these with no ill-will and within the ambit of the law of the land. It is deplorable that violence is unleashed by ‘mobs’ on such peaceful assembly and practice of faith of one’s choice, oftentimes with the state-machinery standing by as helpless onlookers or silently consenting. It is even more distressing to see women and children being attacked.

More and more states, the latest being the state of Maharashtra, threaten to and eventually enact laws to ‘protect’ Freedom of Religion and Belief. These, adding to those that already exist in 11 states across the country have only alienated minority communities further, and provided ammunition for harassment of the community often in the hands of mobs aided by the absence of the state in the active discharge of it’s duties to protect the attacked.

The long-standing issue of making the 1950 Presidential order religion-neutral, the evading peace in the state of Manipur which continues to be detrimental to the Christian Community, delayed filling of vacancies in the Minorities related Commissions continue to be issues that the Christian community is affected with. Calls to rein in leaders who delivered inflammatory hate speeches against Christians also were not heeded to.

The National Council of Churches in India the official mandated body representing the Protestant and Orthodox Churches in India is deeply committed in engaging with the Government in finding a solution to these vexed issues of communities blaming each other and the minorities among them being harassed. We urge the Government of India to address and contain all forces that seek to polarise religious communities and work on synergising the strengths of organisations of religious and social communities in achieving a higher index of Gross National Happiness and thereby better economic growth and eradication of poverty, malnutrition and hunger reflected in all social parameters and their indicators.

We urge the Government of India, one more time, to engage with the official bodies of the Christian communities in India such as the National Council of Churches in India and it’s sister bodies to deal substantially and conclusively with all outstanding issues relating to christians, in order that the credibility of this nation’s plural being and it’s ethos of unity in diversity is further affirmed and celebrated. We stand committed as always to the growth of the nation and her people, and to the express resolve of the Governments for inclusive growth and building a strong future for the people of India.

God bless India. May the current session of the Parliament bring prosperity and peace to all peoples of the land. We look forward to the IMMEDIATE release of the arrested sisters, and all others in custody for the practice of their Chrsitian faith and discharge of their responsibilities in Christian mission.

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EASTER 2025: Calling the bluff, bouncing back with zing…

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Events that unfolded on that First ‘Easter’ Day are reminiscent of individuals and communities bouncing back to life.

This bouncing back with zing comes alive in the contexts of the stories in which the disciples on the road to Emmaus, the disciples going back to their previous contexts, and a distraught Mary, were face to face with the reality of a ‘possibility of possibilities’.

At this realisation the stories of a beleaguered, battered, battle-worn christ-community that was withdrawing from action, feigning a ‘time-up’ context, comes Alive !!!!

Every situation around us today expresses a ‘There Is No Alternative (TINA)’ syndrome, while Easter calls the bluff and helps bounce back with ‘There are A Thousand Alternatives (TATA)’. History is replete with umpteen such instances of bouncing back.

This ‘dead with Jesus and rising with him’ experience, challenges death and the grave – O death where is your sting, O grave where your victory… (I Cor. 15: 55). It joyfully proclaims, Blessed be the name of our God who gives us victory through Jesus Christ (I Cor 15: 57).

May this jubilant cry that supposes a sense of victory while yet under subjugation, energise us and all christ-communities, to call the bluff and help bounce back as we seek to serve God as christ-communities that are critically conscious and contextually relevant.

Current contexts are quite complicated, and seem irreparable. Yet ‘miracles happen all the time’. Saturday is silent and long… Easter however is an ever present promise of all times.

Happy Easter Hope ! Let’s bounce back with zing ! Let’s make it happen ! Everyday….

Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary, NCCI

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Chhattisgarh Council of Churches chalks out way forward….

On February 22, 2025, twenty eight church leaders from various churches and christian organizations in Chhattisgarh gathered to discuss the challenges faced by Christians in the region, especially those who are experiencing difficulties due to their faith. 

Bishop N. Ashawan of the Mennonite Church in India inspired the participants during the morning devotion, focusing on unity, hope, and the power of Christian witness. Rev. Asir Ebenezer, General Secretary of NCCI, provided an introduction to NCCI and its various ministries and concerns. Several church leaders from different areas of Chhattisgarh shared their struggles, particularly threats to the pratice of faith and to their lifelivelihood. The leaders explored ways to address these issues while maintaining communal harmony.

Mr. Pradip Bansrior, Executive Secretary of the NCCI Commission on Tribal Concerns, highlighted the importance of the PESA Act and encouraged the church leaders to familiarize themselves with government regulations, especially in tribal areas, to better serve tribal communities.

The leaders also discussed the reconstruction of the Chhattisgarh Council of Churches with NCCI’s constituent members. Dn. Vikal Rao, Executive Secretary of Mennonite Church in India, was tasked with meeting with Chhattisgarh church leaders to form a working group.

The meeting concluded with a closing prayer by Rt. Rev. Sushma Kumar, Bishop of the Chhattisgarh Diocese of the Church of North India, who graciously hosted the one-day consultation. Leaders and repesentatives from Church of North India, Believers Eastern Church, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, Mar Thoma Syrian Church, Mennonite Church in India, Jeypore Evengelical Lutheran Church, Methodist Church in India, Mennonite Church in India, All India Sunday Schooll Assoiciation and Christian Medical Assoiciation of India attended the meeting.

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Honouring Champions of Accessibility, Resilience and Inclusion: NCCI-IDEA Disability Awards 2024

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The NCCI-IDEA Disability Awards 2024 have been officially launched! In a significant moment during the NCCI General Body meeting on September 13, 2024, the awards were unveiled by NCCI President H.G. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Yulios. This second edition of the awards is set to celebrate exceptional contributions toward disability inclusion, spotlighting individuals and organisations working to create a more accessible world.

A Look Back: COVID Heroes Award 2022 The inaugural edition, known as the COVID Heroes Award 2022, was announced on December 15, 2022. This special award recognised those who provided vital support to persons with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the standout winners were Mr. Sandeep Paul, from the CSI School for the Intellectually Disabled, and the Shapiro Initiative, both celebrated for their tireless efforts in serving the disabled community during this challenging time.

NCCI-IDEA Disability Awards 2024 Categories

This year’s edition expands its focus with four unique award categories, ensuring that every aspect of disability inclusion and innovation is recognised:

  1. Persons with Disabilities: Celebrating individuals for their remarkable achievements and
  2. Individuals: Honouring those who have made a transformative impact on the lives of persons with
  3. Institutions: Acknowledging organisations for their exceptional contributions in care, sensitivity, and
  4. Innovative Interventions: Highlighting groundbreaking initiatives that improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities.

How to Nominate

Nominations are open until November 5, 2024, and the process is simple. Just scan the QR code provided on the official poster or clicking the link given bellow, which will direct you to the nomination form. Fill in the necessary details and submit your entry.

Be Part of the Change

The NCCI-IDEA Disability Awards 2024 seek to inspire and encourage more action toward creating an inclusive society. By recognising those who go above and beyond in their efforts, these awards shine a light on the importance of accessibility and dignity for all.

Stay tuned for the award ceremony in December 2024 and join us in celebrating those who are paving the way to a more inclusive future!

For More Info: https://drive.google.com/file/d/16gDCB_onj2NnJoHawzCt3uoHcCB6R6Di/view?pli=1

For Nomination : https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/ 1FAIpQLSdRcLOTb4GF7n8zNt70jk4s1LSlopMBFS13HHksdHYV4eqVIQ/viewform?usp=pp_url

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Ecumenical Youth Gathering on Towards a Just life and Affirming Identities in Migration

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A one day Ecumenical Youth Gathering was conducted in the city of Nagpur on the theme “ Towards Just Life and Affirming Identities in Migration on 25th May 2024. Around 20 Young people gathered from different Churches and discussed on Addressing the issues on migrants youth.

Rev.  Asher, Executive Secretary Commission on Youth concerns, NCCI addressed the challenges that young people are going through globally and questioned how the ecclesial structures are responding on this issue. The main cause of youth migration are obviously the economic condition and the prospects for youth in a particular region. He said that migration raises questions about identity justice, racism advocacy and diakonia.

Rev. Ganesh Barve Presbyter, All saints Cathedral CNI Church, Nagpur  shared the reflection on Migration.  He emphasised the historical aspects of migration from the biblical perspective.

Mr. Rajesh Jadav in his opening remarks challenged young people to be open to listen the stories of people with pain and suffering.   He brought a case study on migration saying that Covid has challenged the church whether they will be inclusive in giving them an space and unfortunately many churches were not migrant friendly where other religions were opened up to give space.  He asked youth to challenge the church structures to be inclusive.

Mr. Khaten from North East Fellowship had shared the experiences as student migrant and Manipur student in Nagpur had shared their experiences on migration. Mr. Jammu Anandh in his session highlighted the means of identities in migrations. The cities are build by the migrants. He addressed that migration has both positive and negative impact where a product mechanism is been applied that man force is needed to operate the product.  He also highlighted Article 15 where everyone is treated equal irrespective of caste, gender, sex and place. He mentioned that Constitution is above the religions and constitution provides rights to the migrants.

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Understanding Human Sexuality: Summer Course 2024 Concludes with Enthusiastic Acclaim

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The National Ecumenical Forum for Gender and Sexual Diversities (NCCI-NEFGSD) Summer Course on “Understanding Human Sexuality” held from May 20th to 25th, 2024, concluded with a valedictory ceremony that celebrated the participation of 25 dedicated students from diverse backgrounds.

This intense  course, hosted on the NCCI campus in Nagpur, provided exploration of human sexuality and participants delved into key topics including definitions and understandings of sex, gender identity, gender expression, and sexuality. The curriculum was enriched by perspectives from the Old Testament, New Testament, history, ethics, sociology, and multiple religious viewpoints. Additionally, students gained valuable knowledge on pastoral care and ministerial and ecumenical development.

The course methodologies made it exceptionally engaging, incorporating a human library, group activities, film screening, and reviews. These interactive elements facilitated a dynamic learning environment, allowing students to connect theory with real-world experiences.

All students agreed that the course was groundbreaking, significantly enhancing their understanding of human sexuality from various academic and practical perspectives. The course concluded with a promise from the NCCI General Secretary to introduce an advanced course later this year.

Rev Ribin John
Executive Secretary
Ecumenical Fora/ NCCI-NEFGSD

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Celebrating Collaboration: Inauguration of the Bengaluru Ecumenical Entrepreneurs Forum

Entrepreneurship thrives on collaboration. On Sunday, April 14th, 2024, at 2 pm, that spirit of NCCI- Ecumenical Entrepreneurs Forum (EEF) was alive and vibrant in the meeting of the EEF Bangalore Chapter. Entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds and various church denominations gathered for a momentous occasion—the inauguration of the Bengaluru Ecumenical Entrepreneurs Forum (EEF) at the Mar Thoma Syrian Church Primrose, Bangalore.

 In a city known for its innovation and dynamism, the need for a platform like the EEF became evident through shared discussions. The positive energy in the room was palpable as entrepreneurs affirmed the value of collaboration in the garden city. One of the main points that emerged from the discussions was the wealth of entrepreneurial talent within churches, yet the lack of initiatives for collaboration.

The EEF aims to change this narrative, providing a platform for entrepreneurs to enhance their networks and collaborations. This inauguration marks the 6th chapter of the National Council of Churches in India’s (NCCI) EEF. With existing chapters in Chennai, Delhi, Nagpur, Kottayam, and Koraput, Bengaluru’s addition underscores the growing need for such platforms across the country. If you are an entrepreneur and believe in the power of collaboration and wish to be part of this movement, we invite you to connect with us at eef@ncci1914.com.

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