Tue Dec 30 08:51:02 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
Thrissur Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), condemned recent attacks on Christmas celebrations in India, calling them a blow to the nation’s conscience and an injury to India’s soul. Speaking at a protest organized by the Thrissur Archdiocese, he criticized the Prime Minister’s silence on the issue. Other religious leaders, including Auxiliary Bishop Mar Tony Neelankavil and Metropolitan Mar Awgin Kuriakose, emphasized Christianity’s commitment to inclusion and coexistence, highlighting the irony of those responsible for maintaining peace questioning the right to celebrate Christmas. Speakers at the protest warned that these attacks undermine India’s pluralistic ethos and social harmony. The protest, attended by clergy, the faithful, and members of the public, demanded action against the perpetrators and reaffirmed commitment to India’s secular traditions.
News Article:
Archbishop Condemns Attacks on Christmas Celebrations as “Blow to India’s Conscience”
Thrissur, Kerala – December 30, 2025 – Thrissur Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), has strongly condemned the recent incidents of violence and intimidation targeting Christmas celebrations across India. Speaking at a protest meeting organized by the Thrissur Archdiocese on Monday, Archbishop Thazhath described the attacks as “a direct blow to the conscience of the nation” and “an injury to the very soul of India.”
He also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s perceived inaction, stating that his “loaded silence” sends “a disturbing message at a time when moral clarity is needed.”
Auxiliary Bishop Mar Tony Neelankavil, who presided over the protest, emphasized Christianity’s values of inclusion and coexistence. “Christians believe in building a society that embraces everyone, without discrimination or fear,” he stated.
Metropolitan of the Chaldean Church, Mar Awgin Kuriakose, highlighted the “tragic contradiction” of those responsible for safeguarding peace and harmony questioning the right to celebrate Christmas.
Speakers at the protest warned that these attacks threaten India’s pluralistic ethos and social harmony. They emphasized that Christmas, a festival of peace, compassion, and goodwill, belongs to all sections of society, transcending religious boundaries.
The protest, which drew a large crowd of clergy, church members, and concerned citizens, called for swift and decisive action against those responsible for the attacks. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to defending India’s secular and inclusive traditions. The event underscores growing concerns about religious freedom and social cohesion in India.
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