The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) joins the global Christian community and all people of goodwill in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a shepherd whose legacy of compassion, inclusion, and justice has left an indelible mark on our world.
Pope Francis stood as a firm and unwavering voice against war and violence. He condemned the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza, as well as the Russian and Ukraine war. His passionate plea for peace, dignity, and justice for all peoples—Palestinians and Israelis alike—challenged the conscience of the world. He reminded us that true faith cannot be separated from the cry of the oppressed and the suffering of the innocent.
Pope Francis stood as a compassionate advocate for the protection and dignity of migrants, calling it a “duty of civilisation.” He condemned the rising tide of anti-immigration politics around the world and urged governments and societies to recognize the humanity of those seeking refuge and a better life. His commitment to the care of the displaced, the poor, and the vulnerable continues to be a challenge to all nations and peoples.
Pope Francis will be remembered not only as a visionary spiritual leader but also as a prophetic voice of love and inclusion. His pastoral embrace of the LGBTQI+ community as “children of God” invited churches everywhere to walk more faithfully in the path of Christ, who welcomed the outcast and broke down barriers of discrimination. His courageous stance encouraged many across denominations to re-examine the meaning of grace, belonging, and the radical hospitality of the Gospel.
One of Pope Francis’s most enduring contributions was his tireless pursuit of interfaith harmony. He extended hands of friendship and dialogue to leaders of many faith traditions, fostering relationships grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a common longing for peace. From his messages of unity with Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, and Muslims, he called all of humanity to see one another as brothers and sisters.
As we bid farewell to this remarkable servant of God, we offer our deepest condolences to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), to the global family of the Catholic Church, and to all who drew hope from his life and witness. We pray that his legacy will continue to inspire our shared ecumenical journey toward justice, peace, and inclusive community.
May the God of Peace receive him in eternal rest, and may his memory be a blessing and a call to action.
“Let all that you do be done in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14
Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary
National Council of Churches in India
Ecumenical news
Metropolitan Mar Aprem: An Ecumenical Episcopal Public Witness
/0 Comments/in News from NCCI /by CommunicationsWith 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
/0 Comments/in News from NCCI /by CommunicationsDalit 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.
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
NCCI Condemns Inhuman Attack on Dalit Christians in Madhya Pradesh
/0 Comments/in Appeal /by CommunicationsCONDEMNATION OF INHUMAN ATTACK ON DALIT CHRISTIANS ON THE NIGHT OF JUNE 22, 2025 IN NEPANAGAR VILLAGE, BURHANPUR DISTRICT MADHYA PRADESH- APPEAL FOR JUSTICE
We are deeply shocked, heartbroken, and outraged by the horrifying and inhumane incident that occurred on the night of June 22, 2025, in Nepa Nagar village, Burhanpur district, Madhya Pradesh. According to verified reports and viral video evidence, a mob of approximately 150 individuals forcibly entered the residence of a Christian pastor and subjected four Dalit Christians to brutal physical assault, humiliation, and public degradation. They were stripped, paraded semi-naked, verbally abused, and forced to bow before a Hindu deity under coercion — all on the false accusation of religious conversion.
This barbaric act not only violates the core values of humanity and dignity but also constitutes a gross infringement of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion, the right to equality, and the right to life and personal liberty under Articles 25, 14, and 21 respectively.
Even more disturbing are credible accounts that local police officers were either passive bystanders or complicit actors during the public parading of the victims. This failure of law enforcement, and alleged support to vigilantes, has deeply eroded the community’s faith in the rule of law and justice.
Such orchestrated violence against Christians — particularly against the marginalized Dalit community practicing Chrsitian Faith is part of a deeply concerning pattern of intolerance, intimidation, and communal targeting that must be urgently addressed.
We therefore demand:
We stand united in our condemnation of this heinous attack. No religion or belief system condones such cruelty. We urge the Minister of Home Affairs Government of India, Chairperson: National Human Rights Commission, Chairperson: National Commission for Minorities, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh and Director General of Police, Madhya Pradesh to act decisively and urgently — to uphold justice, restore dignity, and reaffirm our collective faith in the secular fabric of this nation.
Rev. Asir Ebnezer
General Secretary, NCCI
BEES FOR BIODIVERSITY: NCCI – IPC JOINT INITIATIVES
/11 Comments/in News from Constituent Members, News from NCCI /by CommunicationsThe 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.
PAHALGAM: ANOTHER BLOT ON HUMANITY
/11 Comments/in Statements /by CommunicationsThe National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) expresses its deepest sorrow and unequivocally condemn this heinous act of terror in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of innocent civilians and left many others injured. We believe there is no justification for targeting innocent lives, and such brutality must be met with unwavering resolve and unity.
We stand in unwavering solidarity with the victims and their families, offering our prayers and support in this time of profound grief. Our hearts mourn for those who have lost their lives while seeking rest and beauty in one of the most peaceful corners of our nation.
No faith, tradition, or ideology can ever justify the taking of innocent lives. The ideology of hatred, is a direct affront to the sacredness of life and the divine call to love our neighbors. This tragedy is yet another painful reminder of the urgent need to reject violence and work together—across faiths, cultures, and borders—for a future defined not by fear, but by peace, justice, and mutual respect.
As a nation, we must remain united in our stand against terror. Let us honor the memory of those lost by recommitting ourselves to building a world rooted in compassion, justice, and enduring peace.
We call upon all communities, religious leaders, and political authorities to rise above the situation and recommit to the sacred task of reconciliation with justice. Let this sorrow move us not to despair, but to action—for a world where such violence is no more.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” — Matthew 5:9
May Peace Prevail!
Rev. Dr. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary
Pope Francis: A Bridge of Hope Across Faiths and Borders; A Shepherd of Justice, Peace, Inclusivity and Compassion
/13 Comments/in Statements /by CommunicationsThe National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) joins the global Christian community and all people of goodwill in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a shepherd whose legacy of compassion, inclusion, and justice has left an indelible mark on our world.
Pope Francis stood as a firm and unwavering voice against war and violence. He condemned the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza, as well as the Russian and Ukraine war. His passionate plea for peace, dignity, and justice for all peoples—Palestinians and Israelis alike—challenged the conscience of the world. He reminded us that true faith cannot be separated from the cry of the oppressed and the suffering of the innocent.
Pope Francis stood as a compassionate advocate for the protection and dignity of migrants, calling it a “duty of civilisation.” He condemned the rising tide of anti-immigration politics around the world and urged governments and societies to recognize the humanity of those seeking refuge and a better life. His commitment to the care of the displaced, the poor, and the vulnerable continues to be a challenge to all nations and peoples.
Pope Francis will be remembered not only as a visionary spiritual leader but also as a prophetic voice of love and inclusion. His pastoral embrace of the LGBTQI+ community as “children of God” invited churches everywhere to walk more faithfully in the path of Christ, who welcomed the outcast and broke down barriers of discrimination. His courageous stance encouraged many across denominations to re-examine the meaning of grace, belonging, and the radical hospitality of the Gospel.
One of Pope Francis’s most enduring contributions was his tireless pursuit of interfaith harmony. He extended hands of friendship and dialogue to leaders of many faith traditions, fostering relationships grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a common longing for peace. From his messages of unity with Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, and Muslims, he called all of humanity to see one another as brothers and sisters.
As we bid farewell to this remarkable servant of God, we offer our deepest condolences to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), to the global family of the Catholic Church, and to all who drew hope from his life and witness. We pray that his legacy will continue to inspire our shared ecumenical journey toward justice, peace, and inclusive community.
May the God of Peace receive him in eternal rest, and may his memory be a blessing and a call to action.
“Let all that you do be done in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14
Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary
National Council of Churches in India
EASTER 2025: Calling the bluff, bouncing back with zing…
/9 Comments/in General news, News from NCCI /by CommunicationsEvents 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
Honouring the Bibhas legacy – Recognising Brave Youth combating Gender Based Violence
/12 Comments/in News from NCCI /by CommunicationsStories like that of Bibhas Nayak, a young man whose courage and bravery saved lives, deserve recognition for acts of selflessness.
It is reported that Bibhas (a young man from the Church of North India and the son of the Most Rev. B. K. Nayak, Moderator of the Church of North India) stood up against a group of three men who physically assaulted two young women under the cover of dark. Unfortunately, despite his valiant efforts, we note that Bibhas tragically lost his life. Even in the face of such danger, his actions were filled and propelled with love for others. His sacrifice saved the lives of his two male friends. More importantly, his heroism will echo through the hearts of all who hear his story.
A committed person, adventurous in his outlook to life, Bibhas’ heart of goodwill reportedly shines through his contribution towards the education of girl children from deprived communities as well. It is appropriate to recognise Bibhas and such other young people among us for their selfless acts that affirm life of many despite the challenges to their own.
We recommend that it will be most appropriate to award Bibhas for his act of selflessness, and more importantly to institute an annual honour in his name to be awarded for exemplary contribution of a young people in addressing Gender Based Violence. The National Council of Churches in India will institute a National Award on these lines.
By recognizing Bibhas we not only pay tribute to his life but also send a message to the world that true courage and sacrifice, especially when displayed by young people, should never go unnoticed.
We offer our prayers to the family of Bibhas, and pledge our solidarity with the women who were assaulted. We urge the authorities to bring the perpetrators of this crime to justice, and step up vigilance to prevent such heinous acts of violence against women.
Smriti Priyansha
Executive Secretary
NCCI Commission on Youth Concerns
Chhattisgarh Council of Churches chalks out way forward….
/12 Comments/in General news /by CommunicationsOn 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.
NCCI Disability Awards 2024 Winners Acknowledged and Appreciated
/13 Comments/in News from NCCI, News Release /by CommunicationsThe NCCI-IDEA Disability Awards 2024 winners were announced on February 1, 2025, during the monthly online Persons with disabilities Fellowship 2025. The awards featured four categories for persons with disabilities (PWDs): Individual, Innovative Interventions, Institutional, and a special category for Persons with disabilities.
In the Individual category, the winner was Mr. M. David Jeyasekar, a special educator with three decades of experience from I.E.L.C Church in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. He was acknowledged for his significant contributions to the lives of Persons with disabilities.
The Persons with disabilities category winner was Mr. Rongsen Jamir from Ao Baptist Church in Dimapur, Nagaland, recognized for his extraordinary achievements and contributions in the rehabilitation and support of individuals with disabilities.
The Innovative Interventions category was awarded to Mr. Aashish Samuel, an engineering student from Sion fellowship Church in Telangana. He was awarded for his groundbreaking initiatives aimed at enhancing the lives of persons with disabilities through the invention of devices that provide relief from pain.
The Institutional category winner was CSI VHS&HSS School for the Deaf in Valakom, Kollam, Kerala. The School was celebrated for its significant contributions in the area of care and sensitivity for persons with disabilities.
The NCCI-IDEA Disability Awards 2024 celebrated the remarkable achievements of individuals and institutions making a difference in the lives of persons with disabilities. From pioneering inventions to decades of dedicated service, the winners exemplify resilience, innovation, and compassion. Their contributions not only uplift communities but also pave the way for an inclusive and accessible society, inspiring many through their individual and collective efforts.
Report By
Nelson Nag
Program Executive
Ecumenical Fora