Persecuted Christians comforted at Bangalore meet

Hundreds of Christians, mostly those who have been victims of anti-Christian violence in the country, have assembled in the state of Karnataka, for the Fourth National Persecution Meet (2009).

Organised by the Global Council of Indian Christians, the event at the National Biblical, Catechetical and Liturgical Centre (NBCLC), Bangalore, brought together people from different parts of the nation, who were able to share and experience the joy in Christ amidst their painful suffering.

Bishop Sampath Kumar, former bishop of the Methodist Church in India, during his short sermon, urged believers to continue in faith and never be discouraged. The purpose of the meeting was for mutual encouragement and strengthening of each other's faith, he said.

The attendants, who endured various forms of persecution in their lives, were encouraged to pursue a life of forgiveness and thanksgiving. Dr. Sajan K. George, National President of GCIC, exhorted the believers to remain thankful at all times, and proclaim of what God has been doing in their lives.

"It was a difficult time for the widows as the wounds were very deep and they were harbouring much bitterness in their hearts. It took some time for hearts to be opened and then many tears were shed as widows and other victims wept and forgave those who had hurt them so grievously. All who were gathered felt a peace as the spirit of forgiveness entered into their hearts," GCIC reported.

The Christians included widows of those who have been murdered by Hindu extremists in Orissa's Kandhamal district. Their enlivening testimonies of faith and forgiveness were of great inspiration to the gathering.

On 31 March, GCIC is holding a public meeting where the press has been invited. Swami Agnivesh, President of the World Council of Arya Samaj and winner of The Right Livelihood Award (2004), will deliver the keynote address.