Thank You, Hon’ble Prime Minister — Yet, a Call to Speak Up for the Christian community

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The visit of the Hon’ble Prime Minister to the Cathedral Church of the Redemption, New Delhi, on Christmas Day —particularly at a time when attacks on Christians, places of worship, and traditional religious symbols have been reported – can be perceived as a reassuring signal to the Christian community. It can suggest that the Government of the day and the political leadership of the National Democratic Alliance-led Union Government stand with the Christian community of India.

While welcoming this gesture by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) places on record its repeated earnest appeal to the Government of India and its NDA allies to unequivocally distance themselves from acts of violence and intimidation perpetrated by ill-informed miscreants. The NCCI calls upon the Government to condemn such attacks on the Christian community in the strongest possible terms and to initiate suo motu and decisive police action against those responsible. Such steps alone will ensure that the goodwill gestures extended by the Hon’ble Prime Minister on Christmas Day, and by other representatives of the ruling dispensation on various other occasions, are seen as meaningful commitments rather than symbolic appearances.

The NCCI firmly believes that clear and strong statements, coupled with prompt action from the highest authorities of the Government, will send an unambiguous message within the country. At a time when India seeks to emerge as a strong and responsible global economic power, such actions will also reassure the international community that India stands resolutely by its constitutional values and will not allow any individual or group to act with impunity, regardless of political proximity or alignment.

The NCCI expresses its sincere gratitude to all individuals, communities, leaders, and representatives from various political parties and organisations who have stood in solidarity with the Christian community during these difficult times, especially amid the recent attacks around Christmas. We reaffirm the Christian community’s unwavering commitment to work alongside all citizens in building a strong and united India, resisting any attempt from any quarter to undermine the spirit of the nation or its cherished secular character.

Jai Hind. Long live India.

Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary
National Council of Churches in India (NCCI)

From Bethlehem to Neighbourhoods – NCCI Christmas program in New Delhi

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From Bethlehem to Neighbourhoods, the Christmas Celebration of the National Council of Churches in India was attended by a cross-section of the Christian Community in the National Capital. Members of the Parliament, Officers from the Government of India and Delhi, Leaders of NCCI Member Churches and Organisations as well as friends from different faith communities graced the occasion.

               

Speaking on the occasion Adv. P. Wilson MP spoke on the need of the community to continue to share Christ’s message of love to the community despite the pressing times. He offered Christmas Greetings on behalf od the Indian Christian Parliamentarians Council. Mr. Ricky Syngkon MP stressed on Christmas holding all peoples together. He also prayed for the Country and the NCCI.

Archbishop Most Rev. Dr. Anil Couto, Secretary General of the Catholic Bishop’s Conference of India, Rev. Dr. Vijayesh Lal, General Secretary of the Evangelical Fellowship of India and Rev. Dr. Ajith Kumar, General Secretary of the Church of North India Synod offered Christmas Greetings on the occasion. Ms. Nilakshi Rajkhowa, Director of Public Affairs, Spiritual Assembly of the Bahai in India offered greetings on behalf of the different faith communities represented in and through the India Peace Centre.

His Grace Dr. Geevarghese Mar Yulios, Metropolitan of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, President of the National Council of Churches in India delivered the Christmas message. Rev. Dr. Joshua Peter, Executive Secretary United Evangelical Lutheran Churches in India and Treasurer NCCI greeted all present on behalf of the NCCI. Rev. Asir Ebenezer welcomed the gathering and introduced the National Council of the Churches in India and its role and significance in today’s context.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Paul Swarup, Bishop of the CNI Diocese of Delhi, HG John Mor Iraneus, Archbishop of the Diocese of Delhi of the Believers Eastern Church, Lt. Colonel Abraham Lincoln Mudda, Chief Secretary, Northern Territory of the Salvation Army, Rev. Edwin John Wesley, Bishop Commissary of the Delhi Diocese of the Evangelical Church in India participated in the Event. Choirs from the Church of North India, Mar Thoma Syrian Church, Methodist Church in India and Ms. Grace Thaimei from Manipur presented Christmas songs in different languages that brought home the spirit of Christmas as well as the diverse contexts in which we affirm our faith and live it out.

The NCCI Christmas Programme stood as a powerful witness to ecumenical unity, inter-community harmony, and the enduring message of hope that Christmas brings to society.

Tribute to Mr. Rajakara Rao

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With deep sorrow and profound respect, the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) mourns the passing Mr. Rajakara Rao on 2nd December 2025. He was a devoted servant of God and a committed leader of the Convention of Baptist Churches of Northern Circars (CBCNC) and also, a General Body Member of the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) for almost 15 years.  

Mr. Rajakara Rao’s life was a testimony of faith, humility, and unwavering dedication to the CBCNC mission and its unity. As a representative of CBCNC, he stood as a bridge-builder between communities, always emphasizing the call of Christ to serve with compassion, justice, and love. His contributions to NCCI will be remembered with gratitude and honor.

We give thanks to God for his fruitful life and faithful service. Though we grieve his loss, we rejoice in the assurance that he now rests in the eternal peace of Christ whom he served so faithfully.

Our heartfelt condolences and prayers are with his family, friends, and the CBCNC community. May God’s comfort and strength surround them during this time of sorrow.

Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary, NCCI

India: A Composite Entity with a Plural Identity

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The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) reaffirms that India is a composite entity with a plural identity, shaped by centuries of civilizational encounters, cultural exchange, and religious diversity.

The NCCI expresses deep concern over the recent remarks reportedly made by Shri Mohan Bhagwat, suggesting that India has a single “core” culture that is exclusively Hindu and that there are no “ahindus” in the country. Such a characterization is historically inaccurate and socially divisive. It overlooks the composite fabric of Indian society — a fabric woven through the shared lives, histories, and traditions of numerous communities, belief systems, and linguistic families across the subcontinent.

India’s national identity is not derived from any one religion or culture but from the interweaving of many. The genius of India lies in its ability to integrate difference, not erase it; to affirm diversity, not homogenize it. The secular and democratic framework of the Indian Constitution enshrines this vision by guaranteeing freedom of conscience, faith, and expression to all citizens.

The NCCI therefore urges the Government of India, particularly the Ministry of Culture and allied institutions, to safeguard and promote this pluralistic ethos. Efforts that equate the idea of India with any single religious identity or a core culture undermine the constitutional values of equality and secularism that hold the nation together.

On behalf of the Protestant and Orthodox Christian communities, representing nearly 19 million citizens, the NCCI pledges its commitment to uphold the secular and inclusive character of India. On November 26th — Constitution Day — we call upon all citizens, irrespective of faith or ideology, to join in affirming that we are one in many, and many in one.

India’s strength lies in its unity through diversity — a vision that must continue to inspire and guide the conscience of the nation.

Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary.

NCCI welcomes the appointment of Rt. Rev. Sarah Mullally as Archbishop of Canterbury

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The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) welcomes the appointment of The Rt Rev. Sarah Mullally as the Archbishop of Canterbury, making her the first woman in history to hold the highest office in the Church of England. On 3 October 2025, it was announced that Mullally would become the 106th archbishop of Canterbury in January 2026. She will be the first woman to hold the office.

This momentous historic milestone is a significant step forward for gender justice and equality in global Christian leadership. Bishop Mullally’s appointment has been widely recognized as a symbol of the Church’s commitment to inclusivity, compassion, and progress.

The NCCI, representing the faith expressions of over 16 million Christians in India – the 32 Protestant and Orthodox churches in India, along with 18 Regional Chirstian Councils, 18 Christian Organizations and 7 Related Agencies commends the Church of England for this bold and visionary move.

Rt. Rev. Sarah Mullally, who previously served as the Bishop of London, is widely respected for her leadership in both the healthcare and ecclesiastical spheres. Before entering ministry, she had a distinguished career as a nurse, serving as England’s Chief Nursing Officer. Her pastoral sensitivity, administrative acumen, and theological depth have made her a beloved figure in the Church and beyond.

The NCCI recognises the significance of her appointment for the Indian Christian community, where women continue to face structural barriers to leadership in many denominations. It inspires us to renew our commitment to gender equity in the life and witness of the Indian Church.”

The NCCI joins churches around the world in praying for Archbishop Mullally as she assumes this sacred office. May her ministry be marked by wisdom, courage, and the transforming love of Christ.

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

Metropolitan Mar Aprem: An Ecumenical Episcopal Public Witness

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With deep sorrow and profound respect, the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) mourns the passing Mar Aprem Metropolitan, the esteemed head of the Chaldean Syrian Church of the East in India, who entered eternal rest on July 7, 2025, at the age of 85.

Mar Aprem Metropolitan was a visionary church leader, prolific writer, theologian, historian, and ecumenist whose life and ministry spanned over five decades, served his church and the wider Christian community with distinction, grace, and unwavering commitment.

Throughout his life, Mar Aprem Metropolitan remained deeply committed to the cause of Christian unity, justice, and peace. He was an active participant in the global ecumenical movement and contributed significantly to the life and witness of the church in India and beyond. His scholarship enriched not only the ecclesial community but also the fields of church history, interfaith relations, and social justice. His literary contributions, spanning over 70 books in English and Malayalam, reflected his deep faith, keen intellect, and unique sense of humor.

A man of deep humility, profound wisdom, and immense compassion, Mar Aprem Metropolitan leaves behind a legacy of faith, leadership, and love that will continue to inspire generations to come.

The NCCI extends its heartfelt condolences to the bishops, clergy, and faithful of the Chaldean Syrian Church of the East, as well as to his family and loved ones. We give thanks to God for his life, witness, and enduring contributions to the church and society.

“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord… they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.” (Revelation 14:13)

May his soul rest in peace and may his memory be eternal.

Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary, NCCI

                            

Addressing Caste Violence through Legal Framework and Advocacy- A Workshop

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Dalit Christians who are not classified as SCs continue to face caste discrimination in the form of physical attack threats of conversion and social boycotts.  Dalit Christins are often exempt from the PoA Act as affirmed recent in high court judgments passed from few states. In this connection a two -day workshop on “Addressing Caste Violence through Legal Framework and Advocacy” from 24 – 25th June 2025 was held at NCCI Campus Nagpur.

Lawyers from Alliance Defending Freedom, facilitated the two-days workshop on constitutional and legal framework and highlighted the Laws which can protect the caste-based violence on Dalit Christians. Adv. Samuel David and Adv. Wilson Nathan were the resource persons for the two days.

Rev. Dr. Asir Ebenezer, General Secretary NCCI, in inaugural greetings shared that having legal knowledge is very much important tool for Dalit Christians and also encouraged Participants to be active members of sharing a gospel of liberation for our people through legal awareness, He also urged Participants to be equipped to face caste-based census challenges. 

The Key note address given by Mr. Mangesh Raj Dahiwale from the Buddhist fraternity Council Provided an Ambedkarite understanding of caste-based discrimination, underscoring that untouchability remains a stark reality in Indian society, and called for greater reverence for fellow human beings.

The NCCI – Commission on Dalit Concerns inaugurated a Mechanism to report and track the incidents of caste-based discrimination on Dalit Christians.

       

Rev. Dr. Asir Ebenezer and Fr. Pankaj from Believers Eastern Church, Commission Member of NCCI – CODC released the poster and circulated to the participants and NCCI member churches.

Around 28 participants from NCCI Member Churches attended the intensive workshop for two days.

Rev. C.P. Charles Sundarakumar – Program Executive, Dalit Chrsitan Support Porgam 

Rev. B. Asher Noah – Executive Secretary – NCCI – Commission on Dalit Concerns

BEES FOR BIODIVERSITY: NCCI – IPC JOINT INITIATIVES

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The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) and the India Peace Centre (IPC) jointly observed World Bee Day on May 20, 2025, to enhance biodiversity within their campuses. This event served as a precursor to the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22, 2025.

The celebration aimed to raise awareness about the significance of bees and other pollinators in maintaining ecosystem, health and biodiversity. It highlighted how we have to respect, acknowledge and honour it.

Mr. Angelious Michael co-ordinated the event to enhance the interest on the topic. Rev. Dr. Asir Ebenezer shared the idea of interdependence of the biodiversity and collective interest of all in protecting the bees. Dr. Tejinder Singh Rawal journeyed with the audience exploring the world of bees. Mr. Vijay Bhagat, an urban beekeeper addressed about the science and art of beekeeping and demonstrated beekeeping offering insights to the people that attended.

As part of the event, the NCCI and IPC organized activities such as beekeeping demonstrations, workshops on pollinator conservation, and awareness campaigns about the importance of protecting bee habitats. These initiatives align with their objectives, which include promoting peace with nature and social justice.

By observing World Bee Day, the NCCI and IPC demonstrated their commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability, highlighting the interconnectedness of human well-being, biodiversity, and ecosystem health.

With a proposal to install a colony of species Apis Cerana (Eastern or Asiatic honeybees) in the NCCI campus in Nagpur. The event came to a close by pledging to protect the diversity of bees.

 

 

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