Ahmedabad (Fides Service) - A convention devoted to prayer, reflection, Bible Study brought together members of Charismatic groups from all over India who gathered in Ahmedabad, capital of Gujarat state in west India, theatre in recent years of episodes of fundamentalist violence.
The four day meeting was attended by 18,000 Christians who came together to pray, listen to talks, meditate, reflect on Bible themes and take part in Masses held at Mount Carmel Cathedral and the church of St Francis Xavier.
The convention spoke three languages English, Hindi and Malayam and was presided by a St Vincent priest, Father Augustine Mudkkat, from Kerala. The Bishop of Ahmedabad, Bishop Thomas Macwan said he was pleased to host the event in his diocese because it was a splendid witness for the Year of the Eucharist.
For the closing Mass many Muslims and Hindus joined the thousands of Christians to worship God and sing his praises.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 13/12/2004 righe 24 parole 243)