"Christ the King" procession express concern over rising persecution

Thousands of people from over 100 parishes of Quilon diocese in its annual "Christ the King" procession, expressed concern over rising persecution of Christians in India.

The traditional Kristhu Raj procession held every year in Kollam became an opportunity to call for religious freedom in India, demonstrating solidarity with the Christian community of Orissa.

Stanley Roman, the bishop of Kollam, said, "religious harmony used to be the hallmark of Kerala. But now the state is passing through a phase besieged with problems. We are compelled to admit that something is wrong. We should not allow them to fester. We should identify the problems. The failure to seek the truth is the prime cause for problems in society. The community should uphold love, justice and truth."

The rally, which draws huge crowds of Catholics, punctuated with floats, tableaux and marching music bands.