His Excellency Bishop Thomas Dabre of Pune shared his view and opinion about the recent messages of the Archbishops and Cardinals that created controversies and misunderstandings. Last month, His Grace Anil Couto, archbishop of Delhi, stated in a letter, “We are witnessing a turbulent political atmosphere which poses a threat to the democratic principles enshrined in our Constitution and the secular fabric of our nation.” In reaction to this, cardinal Oscar Gracias, president of the Catholic Bishops’ conference of India, was reported saying, “It’s unfortunate that there are misguided elements who create problems. The government must give a strong message that such incidents won’t be tolerated.” Two weeks later, Filipe Neri Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa, in his annual pastoral letter, said, “Today, our Constitution is in danger, it is a reason why most people live in insecurity.”
As reported by hindustantimes.com, In the light of the above statements, His Grace Bishop Dabre remarked that “According to me, none of the letters or statements have violated parameters, standards or outlines. They have just given their analysis of the situation. Everyone has the freedom to give their view and admittedly, people can disagree. They have called upon people to pray for the country, there is nothing wrong with that.” Further, His Excellency added, “For Christianity in India, no political party is taboo. The church has never said that the community should oppose a particular party or government. It never said that Christians should support or promote a party. It does not associate with any particular party. Everyone is free to vote with respect to their conscience.”
His Excellency Bishop Thomas Dabre urged the government to openly recognize that beneficiaries of our health services are people of other religions and cultures. His Grace Bishop asked the government to tell the people that they should stop creating prejudices and doubts about the Christian community by constantly raising the bogie of conversion.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com
