Kalpetta: Former General Education Secretary, Lida Jacob IAS addressed the priests and the religious as the priceless assets of the Catholic church and that the church treasures them as the pupil of its eyes. She said this at the district level inauguration of the Regional Faith Protection Committee in Kalpetta. She said that the religious are the ones who aid the laity in standing firm on their faith and not drift away at times of difficulties. She further continued to say that they play an important role in faith formation of the children in the society. Additionally, she also appreciated the dedication that the religious and priests undertake to sacrifice the luxuries of a laity life and instead live a celibate life.
Jacob also emphasized on the criticisms that are hovering over the monastic religious due to certain events in the past. She divulged that the critics should always think the hardships that it takes to live their certain life; and not generalise contents per say.
Representing the religious congregations, Sr. Ancy Paul SH, representing the Priests, Rev. Fr. James Kannathettu (Diocese of Mananthavady), Rev. Fr. John Vettimala (Diocese of Calicut)Re. Fr. Thomas Chamath (Diocese of Bathery) and Mr. PunnakuzhiJose Master addressed the gathering.
