New Delhi: On December 22, 2008 afternoon several hundred citizens of various faiths and communities gathered on the lawns of V. P. House, near the Indian Parliament, to listen to music and leaders speak up for peace at Christmas and through the new year. The event was organized by EFI’s Reconciliation Commission under the banner of Citizens for Peace to demonstrate inter-faith solidarity with the Christians suffering in Orissa and all those who have suffered from terrorism right up to Mumbai’s 26/11 attacks.

Rev. Dr. Valson Thampu, Principal of St. Stephen’s College, opened the gathering with an emotive prayer. Sharad Yadav, MP and the new Convenor of the NDA, spoke of the impact of Christians on his early life and affirmed his solidarity with them in India especially those suffering persecution.

He was followed by other speakers. Dr. John Dayal, Gen. Secretary, All India Christian Council , and Rev. Ivan Raskino from Mumbai. The latter and Fr. Dominic Emmanuel, spokesman for the Catholic Archdiocese of Delhi, brought timely messages from God’s word. Rev. Dr. Richard Howell highlighted the need to unite against the terror within as well as the need to accelerate inter-religious dialogue for peace. Bishop Karam Masih, CNI Bishop-emeritus, closed with prayer. Thaan Singh Josh proposed a vote of thanks.
 

This page is updated on January 9, 2009