The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) – Commission on Youth Concerns organized a webinar on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15th, 2024 to discuss the various issues, violences, physical and mental abuse and challenges faced by elders and how they can prevent the elder abuse by taking help of other people and in some cases help from NGOs. This webinar gave insight of different types of elder abuses and some real stories shared by participants.
Rev. Rajesh Matthew, from Mar Thoma Prayojana Institute, Kearla, an old age home, shared his experience working with elders. He spoke about the issue of children abandoning their elderly parents and the importance of recognizing the value of elders as the backbone of society. Rev. Deepak Abraham from CNI also shared his experiences on elder abuse also shared insights on theological inclusivity encountered during his ministry.
Mr. Thayil Daniel Samuel Geontologist, Palliative Care counselor/volunteer., gave the keynote address on the realities of elder abuse in India. He discussed the country’s changing demographics with a growing elderly population and increasing life expectancy. Dr. Sam explored the perspectives of both younger and older generations, underlining the need for improved communication and understanding. A short film reinforcing the message of “No excuse for Elder Abuse” was presented during his session. Dr. Sam defined elder abuse, its prevalence, and risk factors as outlined in the WHO report of 2015, including factors like migration, disabilities, mental health, and social isolation. He explained the different types of elder abuse, which include physical, emotional, financial, neglect, abandonment, and sexual abuse. He elaborated on signs of abuse, highlighting verbal abuse as the most common form, and emphasized the impact of abuse on the physical and mental health of victims, including the loss of fundamental rights.
Empowering elders to protect themselves from abuse was a key part of Mr. Sam’s presentation. He encouraged awareness of rights, seeking help when needed, avoiding pressured financial decisions, and maintaining mental and physical well-being. The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007, a government initiative supporting elders, was explained by Dr. Sam. He also shared helpline numbers and resource websites.
This webinar led by Rev. Asher Noah, NCCI- Commission on Youth Concerns and Ms. Mihika Bhore Vice President- NCCI discussed about elder abuse from a psychological perspective.
The webinar provided valuable information and raised awareness about the critical issue of elder abuse in India. It offered resources and empowered participants to identify, prevent, and address this form of mistreatment.
Rev. Asher Noah
Executive Secretary
NCCI-Commission on Youth Concerns
Ecumenical news
Ecumenical Entrepreneurs Forum Expands: New Members and Innovative Strategies Highlighted at the EEF Delhi Chapter’s II Meeting
/0 Comments/in News from NCCI /by CommunicationsThe second meeting of the Delhi Chapter of the NCCI-Ecumenical Entrepreneurs Forum was held on June 19, 2024, at the NCCI Office in Delhi. This meeting welcomed three new members to the chapter, demonstrating its increasing influence and dedication to building a collaborative network of Christian businesspeople in the city. The meeting was attended by NCCI officials, including Rev. Dr. Asir Ebenezer, General Secretary of NCCI, and Executive Secretaries Rev. Dr. Abraham Mathew and Rev. Ribin John. The General Secretary emphasised the relevance of a unified national network of Christian entrepreneurs, highlighting the need for mutual support and innovative business practices aligned with Christian values.
The main session, led by Chapter Coordinator Mr. Samson Theodore, focused on the theme “Business Enablers: Cultivating a Culture of Innovative Strategies for Entrepreneurial Leadership.” In his talk, Mr. Theodore underscored entrepreneurship as a divine calling that transcends age and advocated for a culture of innovation and strategic leadership. He stressed the importance of entrepreneurs supporting each other in their journeys. Following the talk, the chapter engaged in a robust discussion on key issues such as using business as a mission avenue, tackling the challenges of corruption, and the importance of rejecting Islamophobia. The chapter also committed to developing an annual plan, meeting bimonthly at different member locations, and promoting inclusive business practices by creating job opportunities for persons with disabilities.
The meeting concluded on a high note, with members feeling inspired and equipped with practical strategies for ethical and innovative entrepreneurship.
MPCC Strategic planning and coordination session for upcoming Training, Workshops, and Consultation Meetings
/0 Comments/in News from Constituent Members /by CommunicationsYouth, Women & Priests of Member Churches & Institution of NCCI – Madhya Pradesh Christian Council (NCCI-MPCC) in Bhopal met on 17 June 2024 to to plan for up coming training/ workshops/ consultations in the next three months in Bhopal and adjoining districts. It was the second meeting in the series of strengthening NCCI- MPCC. This meeting was hosted by Methodist Church. Kolar, Bhopal. The participants decided to make three clusters 1- Bhopal & Indore Division. 2- Narmadapuram Hoshangabad Division and 3- Sagar Division to conduct the meetings.
In the meeting, all participants decided to address the issues on-
NCCI and NCCI-MPCC request its constituent members to remember MPCC in Prayers and to raise financial support to conduct the Programme / Activities. And Administrative Expenses.
Report Submitted by-
J. Sibloon.
Secretary. MPCC.
No excuse for Elder Abuse: NCCI on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
/0 Comments/in News from NCCI /by CommunicationsThe National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) – Commission on Youth Concerns organized a webinar on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15th, 2024 to discuss the various issues, violences, physical and mental abuse and challenges faced by elders and how they can prevent the elder abuse by taking help of other people and in some cases help from NGOs. This webinar gave insight of different types of elder abuses and some real stories shared by participants.
Rev. Rajesh Matthew, from Mar Thoma Prayojana Institute, Kearla, an old age home, shared his experience working with elders. He spoke about the issue of children abandoning their elderly parents and the importance of recognizing the value of elders as the backbone of society. Rev. Deepak Abraham from CNI also shared his experiences on elder abuse also shared insights on theological inclusivity encountered during his ministry.
Mr. Thayil Daniel Samuel Geontologist, Palliative Care counselor/volunteer., gave the keynote address on the realities of elder abuse in India. He discussed the country’s changing demographics with a growing elderly population and increasing life expectancy. Dr. Sam explored the perspectives of both younger and older generations, underlining the need for improved communication and understanding. A short film reinforcing the message of “No excuse for Elder Abuse” was presented during his session. Dr. Sam defined elder abuse, its prevalence, and risk factors as outlined in the WHO report of 2015, including factors like migration, disabilities, mental health, and social isolation. He explained the different types of elder abuse, which include physical, emotional, financial, neglect, abandonment, and sexual abuse. He elaborated on signs of abuse, highlighting verbal abuse as the most common form, and emphasized the impact of abuse on the physical and mental health of victims, including the loss of fundamental rights.
Empowering elders to protect themselves from abuse was a key part of Mr. Sam’s presentation. He encouraged awareness of rights, seeking help when needed, avoiding pressured financial decisions, and maintaining mental and physical well-being. The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007, a government initiative supporting elders, was explained by Dr. Sam. He also shared helpline numbers and resource websites.
This webinar led by Rev. Asher Noah, NCCI- Commission on Youth Concerns and Ms. Mihika Bhore Vice President- NCCI discussed about elder abuse from a psychological perspective.
The webinar provided valuable information and raised awareness about the critical issue of elder abuse in India. It offered resources and empowered participants to identify, prevent, and address this form of mistreatment.
Rev. Asher Noah
Executive Secretary
NCCI-Commission on Youth Concerns
NCCI-IDEA ISL 2.0 Concludes, Ushering in Hope for Churches and the Hearing-Impaired Community
/0 Comments/in News from NCCI /by CommunicationsThe National Council of Churches in India – Indian Disability Ecumenical Accompaniment (NCCI-IDEA) hosted a memorable valedictory event for its Indian Sign Language (ISL) 2.0 Batch on June 9th, 2024. This course, which commenced on March 23rd, 2024, saw the enthusiastic participation of 30 students from various regions of India, including the North, Northeast, Central, and Southern states. The course was led by Ms Y Madhurya, whose extensive experience and dedication as an interpreter and teacher of Indian Sign Language greatly benefited the participants. Under her guidance, the students showed great progress, culminating in a celebratory event that highlighted their achievements.
The online valedictory ceremony, held at 6 PM, was a significant occasion attended by students, trainers, and special guests. Out of the 30 enrolled students, 25 received merit certificates, recognising their hard work and commitment to learning ISL. Pastor Rushi from the Nagpur Deaf Fellowship graced the event as the Chief Guest. In his address, he expressed profound joy and appreciation for the efforts of the students in breaking down communication barriers by learning ISL. Rev. Asir Ebenezer, in his valedictory address, inspired the students to continue their journey with ISL, encouraging them to engage with the hearing-impaired community around them. His words were a call to action, urging this ISL batch to make inclusivity a personal mission. Additionally, on Monday, June 10th, five students residing in Nagpur were given certificates offline at the NCCI Nagpur office by the General Secretary.
Students shared touching testimonies, expressing how the three-month course not only taught them a new language but also boosted their confidence and heightened their awareness of inclusivity. They spoke about the transformative experience of learning ISL and the sense of accomplishment they felt. With the conclusion of ISL 2.0, NCCI-IDEA is now looking forward to the next chapter. The success of this course opens the way for ISL 3.0, inviting more individuals to embark on this rewarding journey. It could be your turn next to step into the world of the hearing-impaired community by learning their language and envisioning a more inclusive society. For more information on upcoming courses and how to enrol, follow NCCI’s website, and social media or write to us at idea@ncci1914.com. Join us in making a difference by bridging communication gaps and promoting inclusivity through the learning of Indian Sign Language.
Rev. Ribin John
Executive Secretary
NCCI- IDEA
Digital Welcome Mats : Accessible Church Communications Network. An online workshop on Global Accessibility Awareness Day
/0 Comments/in News from NCCI /by CommunicationsThe passion of churches towards promoting and actualising inclusion was revived at the GAAD workshop of the NCCI. Emphasising the heart of innovation is accessibility the participants were encouraged to cater innovative ideas for making digital accessibility a reality.
Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) is observed to bring focus on digital access and inclusion. According to the Global Accessibility Awareness Day website, “The purpose of GAAD is to get everyone talking, thinking and learning about digital (web, software, mobile, etc.) access or inclusion and people with different disabilities.”
In line with this Global observance, the National Council of Churches in India’s Indian Disability Ecumenical Accompaniment and Communications Department collaborated an online workshop on 15 May, 2024 themed “Digital Welcome Mats : Accessible Church Communications Network”. The teams of Communication and Disability from various churches and institutions join to receive insights on making church communication accessible to all.
Rev. Ribin John, Executive Secretary, NCCI Ecumenical Fora moderated the workshop and Mr. Nelason Nag, Program Executive, NCCI- Indian Disability Ecumenical Accompniment introduced Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) to all the praticipants. Ms Neelam Gaikwad, NCCI Communications program executive spoke about practical strategies to address digital accessibility challenges and Ms. Smriti Priyansha, Document and Research Program Ececutive discussed case studies and identification of digital barriers faced by people with disabilities.
The expected outcome of this workshop was churches will become aware of the digital barriers that people with different types of disabilities face and will receive practical insights and strategies for overcoming these barriers. This will help create a barrier-free digital environment for all church attendees.
This events was not limited to awareness and engagement but also a commitment to pouring ceaseless efforts towards accessibility and prioritising inclusion at all steps.
XIII Assembly of the Association of Theologically Trained Women convenes around the Theme, “Reimaging our potential”
/0 Comments/in News from Constituent Members /by CommunicationsIn the 45th year of her existence, the XIII General Assembly of the Association of Theologically Trained Women of India, with the theme “Reimaging Our Potential,” saw members from various parts of India coming together for fellowship, celebration, and planning together to move forward as an Association.
The inaugural service led by the President Rev. Jyothi Sunder and the Acting Secretary & Treasurer Rev. Salome Joshua, and the Regional Secretaries of ATTWI (2020-May 2024) set the tone for the deliberations of the two days. Ms. Esther Kathiroli, the Secretary of Tamil Nadu Council of Churches shared greetings and was felicitated as the guest of honour during the service. Rev. Salome Joshua led the members down memory lane. She remembered the pioneers who were instrumental in building the ATTWI and she thanked God for the legacy of women leaders who led ATTWI over the years.
Rev. Dr. Asir Ebenezer, General Secretary of National Council of Churches in India, brought greetings to the Assembly from NCCI as well as on behalf of the other partners of ATTWI – BTESSC and the Senate of Serampore. Prof. Samuel Cornelius, the Hon. Treasurer, CSI Diocese of Madras, felicitated the Assembly and read greetings from the host of the Assembly, Rt. Rev. Sharma Nithyananda, the Bishop-in-Charge, CSI Diocese of Madras, who could not be present. President Rev Jyothi Sundar and Treasurer Rev Salome Joshua recorded their thanks to the CSI Diocese of Madras for magnanimously hosting hospitality for the XIII Assembly of ATTWI at the CSI LITE Centre.
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Ecumenical Youth Gathering on Towards a Just life and Affirming Identities in Migration
/0 Comments/in General news, News from NCCI /by CommunicationsA 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.
Understanding Human Sexuality: Summer Course 2024 Concludes with Enthusiastic Acclaim
/25 Comments/in General news, News from NCCI /by CommunicationsThe 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
Accompaniment in Action: NCCI-IDEA’s Ecumenical visit to Strengthen Disability Ministry
/24 Comments/in News from NCCI /by CommunicationsNCCI’s Indian Disability Ecumenical Accompaniment (NCCI-IDEA) is undertaking an important journey to enhance the ministry of disability within its member churches/organizations. During this transformative visit, the focus will be on engaging with key disability departments and helping member churches/organizations to establish their Disability Ministry, with a focus on the 4A areas: Audit, Accompaniment, Acknowledgement, and Advocacy.
Visit to CSI SEVA and DISHA Project
Engaging with ECI Evangelical Churches
Collaboration with UELCI for Disability Ministry Expansion
Rev. Ribin JohnExecutive Secretary, NCCI- Ecumenical Fora
Celebrating Collaboration: Inauguration of the Bengaluru Ecumenical Entrepreneurs Forum
/25 Comments/in General news /by CommunicationsEntrepreneurship 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.