Christian institutions and churches across India commemorated the nation’s 76th Republic Day with flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programmes, and special prayers for the country’s well-being and progress.
In Mangaluru, several Christian educational institutions organised elaborate celebrations. Mount Carmel Central School hosted Lieutenant Colonel Gracian Sequeira as their chief guest, who unfurled the national flag amidst the school band’s rendition of the national anthem. The ceremony featured an impressive march past, cultural performances, and patriotic songs by students.
Similarly, St. Theresa’s School marked the occasion with a series of events spanning multiple days. The celebrations culminated in the main ceremony on January 26, where Principal Sr. Lourdes BS hoisted the tricolour and emphasised the constitutional values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. At Lourdes Central School, Fr Norman Mathias highlighted the unique nature of the Indian Constitution and its role in ensuring citizens’ rights and dignity.
In Trivandrum, H.H. Moran Mor Dr. Samuel Theophilus Metropolitan of the Believers Eastern Church unfurled the national flag at the diocesan office, joined by H.G. Mathews Mor Silvanus Episcopa and other clergy members.
The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) marked the occasion with a profound message from its General Secretary, Asir Ebenezer, reflecting on India’s journey as a democracy. “India wakes up today brimming with hope as we her citizens celebrate 75 years of collective dignity and self-respect,” Ebenezer stated. He emphasised the importance of protecting the rights of marginalised communities and maintaining secular democratic principles.
The NCCI message called for concrete action, stating, “It is time to affirm the democratic principles not just toy with numbers, the visible expression of a secular state that is equidistant from all religious traditions, and the enhancement of the naturally prevailing goodwill and harmony of all peoples in every neighbourhood.”
The Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) issued a detailed prayer letter through its General Secretary, Rev. Vijayesh Lal, outlining specific areas requiring divine intervention. The letter emphasised four key prayer points: leadership and service, national unity and healing, justice and development, and Christian witness in society.
“As we marked the 76th Republic Day, we reaffirmed our commitment to our nation’s constitutional values and democratic ethos. The Christian community has been an integral part of India’s development story through education, healthcare, and social service. We renewed our dedication to serving our nation and praying for its progress. Our diversity is our strength, and we must work together to build an India that upholds justice and equality for all its citizens,” Rev. Vijayesh Lal told Christian Today.
In Hubli, Karnataka, the Calvary Baptist Telugu Church celebrated the occasion with a flag-hoisting ceremony led by church President G. Yohan and the executive committee. The event featured patriotic songs and special prayers for the nation, with active participation from congregation members of all ages.
The EFI letter addressed current national challenges, including “growing economic disparities, environmental degradation, social polarization, and erosion of constitutional values,” while acknowledging the resilience of Indian democracy and the strength found in its diversity.
