Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an unprecedented appearance at the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) headquarters’ Christmas celebrations in New Delhi. Archbishop of Trichur and CBCI President, Rev. Mar Andrews Thazhath, highlighted the occasion’s significance: “This is for the first time that the Prime Minister of India is coming to the CBCI Centre, a centre of the Catholic Church... We are honoured.”
The visit, coinciding with CBCI’s 80th anniversary, brought Modi together with Cardinals, Bishops, and lay leaders. Archbishop of Bombay Oswald Cardinal Gracias noted the broader implications: “The presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi shows his concern towards the minority communities.”
Addressing the gathering, Modi expressed concern over religious violence globally. “It pains my heart when there are attempts to spread violence and cause disruption in society,” he said, referencing recent attacks at a German Christmas market and the 2019 Easter bombings in Sri Lanka.
Speaking about humanitarian missions, the Prime Minister shared personal memories: “I will never forget the joy in his family’s voices when we succeeded,” referring to Father Alexis Prem Kumar’s rescue from Afghanistan after eight months in captivity. He emphasized India’s commitment: “Today’s India, no matter where an Indian is, considers it its duty to rescue them in times of crisis.” Similar efforts led to the rescue of Father Tom from Yemen and nurse sisters from the Gulf region.
The Prime Minister highlighted his Vatican engagements, including meetings with Pope Francis: “I feel the same affection from His Holiness Pope Francis, whom I met earlier this year during the G7 summit in Italy—our second meeting in three years. I invited him to visit India.”
Discussing India’s pandemic response, Modi emphasized the country’s global outreach: “While many countries focused on their own interests, India selflessly helped over 150 countries, sending medicines and vaccines.” This approach, he noted, earned appreciation from nations including Guyana and several Pacific and Caribbean countries.
On domestic progress, Modi stated: “In the past 10 years, 250 million people in India have overcome poverty, fuelled by the hope that victory over poverty is possible. India has also risen from the 10th to the 5th largest economy, a testament to our self-belief and perseverance.”
Archbishop of Delhi and CBCI General Secretary Rev. Anil Joseph Thomas Couto embraced the occasion’s spirit: “Christmas is a type of togetherness, of love, of affection, and I’m happy that together we are celebrating the birth of Jesus.”
Modi emphasized the government’s inclusive approach through its “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas” initiative. “We took the government out of rigid rules and formalities. We set sensitivity as a parameter,” he explained, citing various welfare schemes including housing programs and healthcare initiatives.
Discussing women’s empowerment, the Prime Minister noted: “The self-confident youth of India are driving the country toward progress, giving us hope that the dream of a developed India will be realized.” He highlighted achievements through the Nari Shakti Vandan Act and initiatives for differently abled citizens.
Looking toward the future, Modi connected the Jubilee Year’s focus on hope with national development: “The Holy Bible sees hope as a source of strength and peace. We are also guided by hope and positivity. Hope for humanity, hope for a better world, and hope for peace, progress and prosperity.”
The visit, following Modi’s attendance at Christmas celebrations at Union Minister George Kurian’s residence, represented significant engagement with India’s Christian community through the CBCI, which has served as the primary coordinating body for Catholics since 1944. Modi concluded by emphasizing collective responsibility: “A developed India is our shared goal, and together, we will achieve it. It is our responsibility to ensure that we leave a brighter India for future generations.”
