Be prepared to face atrocities, aicc tells pastors

From our correspondent

In the light of the increasing incidence of violence against the minority Christian community, the All India Christian Council (aicc) has advised pastors and other Christian leaders to be ever vigilant and well prepared to face more atrocities in the days.

At a seminar organised by aicc at Chikamangalore in Karnataka on 5 June 2006, aicc Karnataka leader Kumar Swamy encouraged pastors and Christian leaders to move on in the midst of opposition and persecution. He spoke in detail about ‘what God is doing across the nation’.

National administrator of aicc Albert Lael spoke about the origin of aicc and its challenging role in India. He highlighted the interventions of aicc whenever any crisis enveloped the Christian community across the country.  He also gave them guidelines on how to face atrocities directed against Christians and churches in India.

Addressing the gathering President of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind said, “The Muslim community is always with Christian and other minority communities. We are there to assist you whenever any help needed.” He lauded the contributions made by Christians in Chikamagalore in the fields of education and healthcare.

District Dalit leader Ramamurthy said the Dalit leaders were ready to cooperate and join hands with aicc in protecting and serving the minority communities in the country.

The pastors thanked aicc for organising the programme. Pastor C Samuel said, "I want to thank the aicc leaders for taking time to come here and tell what to do in the face of any opposition. I request aicc to hold such programmes often so that we can learn from you and be strengthened in our ministry."

Another participant Pastor Sundar said, "This is the first time for me to sit with people from other communities and hear from them. Today I have learned a lot and I want to thank aicc for organizing this meeting."

Aicc leaders visit family of Pastor Paulose

Kumar Swamy and Albert Lael, along with aicc leaders Anand Kumar and Kannan James, called on the family of Pastor Paulose and enquired about his health. It may be recalled that Pastor Paulose and his wife was attacked by Hindu fanatics on Easter Sunday. They had to be hospitalised for a long time to recover from the injuries. Speaking later, Albert Lael said Pastor Paulose had set an example for young people through his love for the Lord and commitment.