Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Tura (Agenzia Fides) – The Church of the Diocese of Tura (Meghalaya) in northeastern India, is bringing the message of Christ through the intercession of St. Pio of Pietrelcina. This is what Fides was told in an interview with Bishop George Mamalessery, Bishop Emeritus of Tura.
The territory of the diocese is a mountainous terrain, covered by forests and inhabited by hundreds of tribal groups. "We created a complex dedicated to Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, in Thakimagre, comprised of a church, a school, and a clinic that serves over 300 children. St. Pio is deeply loved by the locals. In our work of evangelization, St. Pio is an instrument and an effective mediator, and continues to bring about new conversions," the Bishop tells Fides.
There are about 240,000 Catholics in Tura, mostly of indigenous origin, and the Christian community continues to see new baptisms. Local communities, mainly followers of the animist religion, "accept Christ and find His message very attractive. They find in God a source of peace and love in the relationship with others" says Bishop Mamalessery.
The situation of the diocese, like that of the entire state, is one of general poverty. The village people, mostly tribal people, live in poverty and lack basic services such as education. "The urgency is the development of our people, which means access to education, health care, socio-economic opportunities. The Church brings her message and mission of integral service to the individual. This is why the faith has grown a lot in the area and continues to spread, particularly among the ethnic tribe of the "Garo." The pastoral care of the diocese is expressed through a strong commitment to education and social work. "The Church is the first in offering educational service to the tribal peoples," the Bishop notes. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 28/12/2009)
