Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
New Delhi (Agenzia Fides) – "The priests of Orissa (eastern India), particularly in the Kandhamal District, share the fate of their flock and have demonstrated deep love and dedication to the faithful entrusted to them," said John Dayal, Secretary General of the All India Christian Council, in a speech sent to Fides, reflecting on how the local community is living the Year for Priests.
In August 2008, 300 Christian villages were attacked and 54,000 people fled to nearby woods, to escape the fury of Hindu extremists. Among them were priests and nuns, who have shared fully the suffering of the population. Some of them, like the Catholic priest Fr. Bernard Digal, met their deaths from the wounds and beatings they suffered.
"But this tragedy – Dayal tells Fides - has shown how deep is the bond that the priests of Orissa have with their flock. Most of the priests of Kandhamal are originally from the area. They were born, lived, were baptized and were ordained in that land. They are often from among the Dalits (so-called untouchables) and tribal peoples. Some of them have earned doctorates in theology and culture abroad; others are more socially engaged. But all share a deep love for the land and the people. The people have been struggling for decades for human promotion, education, to improve living conditions... When the violence erupted, the priests of Orissa and their families were the main targets. They suffered humiliation and aggression “in odium fidei” in silence, without reacting. Fr. Bernard was the martyr of that violence and is a symbol of all the priests who are still committed to preaching the Gospel and defending the people of Orissa.” (PA) (Agenzia Fides 9/3/2010)
