New Delhi – The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) hosted its grand Christmas Celebrations 2024 at the CBCI Centre, marking its 80th anniversary, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest. This historic event saw the participation of prominent dignitaries from the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, including His Eminent Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas, Bishop of Bathery and current Vice President II of the CBCI and His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mor Anthonios OIC, Bishop of the Eparchy of Gurgaon.
A Historic Moment
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence at the CBCI Centre marked the first time a sitting Prime Minister has attended such a celebration at the headquarters of the Catholic Church in India. During his address, Shri Modi highlighted the significance of Christmas as a celebration of harmony, love, and hope. He said, “Christmas invites us to be gifts to others, spreading joy and compassion.”
The Prime Minister shared fond memories of his previous interactions with the Christian community and his meetings with Pope Francis, whom he invited to visit India. Reflecting on India’s foreign policy, he emphasised the nation’s commitment to both human and national interests, recounting efforts to rescue Indian citizens, including clergy, from crises worldwide.
Messages of Hope and Unity from Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the gathering, underscored the significance of Christmas as a celebration of love, harmony, and hope. He highlighted the teachings of Jesus Christ, particularly the call to selfless service and compassion, as guiding principles for a just and united society. “The Bible teaches us to carry each other’s burdens, reminding us of our duty to care for one another. This is the spirit we must uphold, not only in our personal lives but in our collective responsibilities as a nation,” the Prime Minister stated.
The Prime Minister expressed deep admiration for the work of Christian organisations across India, noting their pivotal role in education, healthcare, and social upliftment. “Institutions run by the Church have been at the forefront of serving the marginalised and uplifting communities,” he added. Shri Modi commended these efforts, which he described as being rooted in the principles of compassion and inclusivity.
Reflecting on India’s foreign policy, the Prime Minister spoke of the nation’s human-centric approach. He recounted past missions where Indian citizens, including clergy such as Father Alexis Prem Kumar and Father Tom Uzhunnalil, were rescued from hostile situations abroad. “These missions are not merely diplomatic initiatives; they are emotional commitments to bring our people back home safely,” he remarked, highlighting the government’s dedication to protecting Indian citizens globally.
The Prime Minister also pointed to the nation’s achievements over the past decade, including lifting 250 million people out of poverty and rising to become the world’s fifth-largest economy. He attributed this progress to the collective efforts of all communities and reiterated his government’s focus on empowering women, supporting the differently-abled, and fostering innovation among India’s youth. “Our journey towards a developed India is powered by the self-confidence of our people, especially our youth, who are driving change in every sector.”
Addressing the global challenges of violence and social disruption, Shri Modi called for unity and resilience. Referring to recent incidents of unrest, he emphasised the need to combat hatred with the message of peace that Christmas embodies. “Let us take inspiration from the life of Jesus Christ, who showed us the way of love and sacrifice, and work towards creating a society that upholds these values.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted the significance of the Jubilee Year, marking 80 years of the CBCI. “The Holy Bible sees hope as a source of strength and peace. Hope for humanity, hope for a better world, and hope for peace, progress, and prosperity. This hope guides us as we strive for a brighter future,” he said.
As the event concluded, Shri Modi expressed gratitude for the affection he has received from the Christian community and renewed his invitation to Pope Francis to visit India. His words resonated deeply, leaving the gathering with a renewed sense of purpose and unity during this season of joy and reflection.
CBCI Leadership and Christian Unity
The CBCI Christmas celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Andrews Thazhath, Metropolitan Archbishop of Thrissur and CBCI President, alongside Most Rev. George Antony Samy, Metropolitan Archbishop of Madras-Mylapore and Vice President-I, and Rt. Rev. Joseph Mor Thomas, Bishop of Bathery and Vice President-II.
Syro-Malankara Catholic Church representatives played a prominent role, with Cardinal Cleemis delivering a message emphasising the importance of unity and service. Bishop Mor Anthonios joined other Christian leaders in discussions with the Prime Minister, promoting ecumenical harmony.
Cultural Highlights and Messages of Hope
The event featured soulful renditions of hymns and carols, reflecting the rich diversity of India’s Christian community. Performances by children and choirs added to the festive spirit. The Prime Minister also interacted with Cardinals and Bishops, including Cardinal Oswald Gracias, who was honoured for his 80th birthday, and Cardinal George Koovakad, recently appointed by Pope Francis.
Shri Modi lauded the CBCI for its contributions to education, healthcare, and social welfare, noting how Christian institutions embody the Bible’s teaching of “bearing each other’s burdens.” He reiterated his commitment to collective growth through the vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas.”
This historic gathering at the CBCI Centre showcased the effervescence and unity of India’s Christian community, reaffirming the Church’s role in building a harmonious and compassionate society.
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