Religious conference group in India reveals plans to help victims of Manipur violence

A peaceful gathering for the people of Manipur was organized by the Tamil Nadu Conference of Religious India (TNCRI) at Santhome Cathedral, on September 16, 2023. 

The event was arranged by Most Rev.Dr. George Antonysamy, Archbishop of Madras- Mylapore, together with a team led led by Rev. Sr. Maria Philomina, Superior General of the Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Bon Secours.

Every religious institution in the vicinity of and surrounding Chennai went to the Cathedral in response to this invitation to show support for the suffering people of Manipur despite the bad weather. 

The organizing team was surprised to see a larger turnout of clergy and religious from the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore. 

The faithful gathered in the open stadium to show their deep sorrow for the Manipur people through prayers and songs.

Archbishop Antonysamy welcomed everyone and spoke about the suffering of the Manipur people, including the loss of life, dehumanization, mistreatment, murder, leaving their homes, and losing their means of existence.

He also acknowledged the unity shown by all the priests and religious in the Archdiocese and communities amid the torrential rain.

Sister Philomina then made an announcement about the TNCRI's plans to support the education of children affected by violence and the possibility of their return to their homes.

The event closed with religious and priests taking an oath with a candle-lighting ceremony to show their support for the proposed project.

According to Fr. Prakash SdC, coordinator of Radio Veritas Asia's Tamil Service, the general public was intrigued by the demonstration and was moved by the act of showing sympathy with their fellow man. - RVA Tamil News Service