NCCI welcomes new interns for 2016-2017. Interns Orientation Workshop conducted.

The National Council of Churches in India welcomes new interns for 2016 - 17. These young people have come from different regions and backgrounds. During their time at NCCI, it is hoped that they would explore various concerns, learn and contribute to the strengthening of the ecumenical movement in India.

Ngalaton Ningsen

Ngalaton is from Nagaland and is an intern for Tribal and Adivasi concerns. She has done her B.D. from Bishop’s College, Kolkata in 2016. She has earlier worked as a secretary in Evangelical Union ministry at Patkai, Sunday school staff in Senakeithei village, Manipur, and has been a member of Nagaland Singing Ambassadors Choir. She is seeking for an opportunity from NCCI to explore herself in the best possible way, to have a wider picture of Tribal and Adivasi concerns beyond North East India which she believes will be of great benefit and help for her future M.Th. studies.

V. Shitovi Sema

Shitovi is intern for  Youth concerns. He is from Dimapur, Nagaland and has done his M.Th. in Missiology  from Aizawl Theological College in 2016 and B.D.  from Easter Theological College in 2013. He served Dimapur Sumi Baptist Church as a Youth Coordinator (Voluntary service) in 2013-2014. He is a worship leader of his church. He want to improve his skills in programme strategies, social analysis, communication, inter-personal mission and evangelism,  and leadership.

NCCI celebrates the life of Rev. D.S. Jeevan Babu

In Christ today, we shall proceed

to bring Peace and Joy

with arms of faith, and dreams of hope

Go forward sharing Love…

-          Jeevan Babu

Rev. D. S. Jeevan Babu, God's faithful servant who day in and day out fulfilled his ministry in quiet fidelity and love, was called 'home' this morning.
 

Rev. Jeevan Babu gave an inspiring witness of his love for God and self-sacrificing service in his priestly ministry.  We thank God for his exemplary life and witness.  He faithfully fulfilled his ministry up until the last few months of his life, when ill-health finally overcame him.

'Jeevan', as he was popularly called, served the National Council of Churches in India from February 1994 to October 1998 as the Secretary of the Unit on Mission & Evangelism.  As an Ecumenist, he was involved with the study of Gospel & Cultures and took various initiatives to strengthen the faith of the recently converted Christians of various tribal people groups in India, especially of the Lambadi tribe living in Andhra Pradesh and in the borders of Maharashtra. 

He subsequently served as the Communication Director of the Karnataka Central Diocese, Church of South India.  Through his writings he sensitized people about the love of life and God’s plans through our lives.  He published around 3 dozen books on creation, life and God’s love for us, humans.

The funeral will take place on 2^nd June 2016 at the St. Mark's Cathedral, Bangalore.  Mr. Kiran Jeevan his son can be contacted on 09739057989 for more information
.

The NCCI family expresses its solidarity with his wife Kasthuri, son Kiran and daughter Keerthi and all the dear ones. 

Roger Gaikwad

General Secretary, NCCI

Indian Churches’ Commitment to All Generations: Social Security and the Common Good

Press Note

April 28, 2016, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India.

The NCCI – Commission on Justice, Peace and Creation organised a National Consultation on Indian Churches’ Response to Social Security’ from 28 – 30 September 2015 by gaining inspiration from the Church of Sweden and with their accompaniment. The participants of the consultation suggested the formulation of  Social Security Policy Guidelines for the NCCI Member Churches to set a model for the Indian Churches, Church-based Institutions and Ecumenical Organisations.Considering the importance and the need, the said Commission of NCCI developed Social Security Policy Guidelines for the NCCI Member Churches. These guidelines were approved by the Working Committee (vide resolution # WC 2015:40) and adopted by the General Body for implementation (General Body Res. No. 07/GB/201).

The guidelines were printed for circulation, and were adopted and released at the XXVIII Quadrennial Assembly on  28^th April 2016 by the Rev. Dr. Mar Atsongchanger, President of NCCI. The first copies were received by Ms. Karin Bodin, Programme Officer and Ms. Hanna Eklund, Programme Officer for India (Designate) of the Church of Sweden and all the Office Bearers of NCCI. Rev. Dr. Roger Gaikwad introduced the process and the importance of the Policy Guidelines while Rev. Christopher Rajkumar facilitated the release event.

The General Secretary has appealed to all the NCCI Constituent bodies to receive the same in their respective councils and appropriate bodies for approval, adoption and implementation. Rev. Christopher Rajkumar, Executive Secretary of the Commission said, "the Commission would involve in working with NCCI members for official adoption and implementation and also joining working with other Civil Society Organisations and initiatives to work with the Governments and appropriate bodies to process the people-friendly Social Protection Policies and Programmes".

The full version of the Policy Guidelines on Social Security is available at NCCI website <www.nccindia.in>

NCCI Communications

Direct link to document: download the policy guidelines document
(http://www.nccindia.in/images/downloads/Policy Guidelines Social Security.pdf)

A Christian Social Activist titled as'Jewel of India' and 'Mahila Rattan'

Dr. Sasiprabha Stanley a renowned Christian activist bagged two 'National Titles' recently in the fields of social work. 

The International Institute of Education and Management titled her as 'Jewel of India' and the Indian Solidarity Council  has titled her as 'Mahila Rattan' (Diamond Woman) recognising her 35 years of grass-roots holistic development engagements against Poverty,  Malnutrition, and Child Labour, and contribution to Adivasi and Dalit Women, Gender Justice, Girl Child Protection, Rural Child Development, Youth, Child Focused Community Development initiatives, Land, Water, Forest, and Eco-justice initiatives. She has also worked with Church and NGOs for empowerment and development of the marginalised communities.

Dr. Sasiprabha  was on several Government committees and Boards. She was the convener of the District level Non-governmental organizations federation and  served as a Wild Life Warden in Koraput District, Odisha. She also served as the Chairperson of the Women's Desk, Division of Social Action and Treasurer of the United Evangelical Lutheran Churches in India. She also served as a member of the Council of Gurukul Lutheran Theological College and Research Institute, and of the Board of Directors, Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR). Recognising her committed grass-roots activities among the Adivasi and Dalit Women and Children, the Academy of Ecumenical Indian Theology and Church Administration honoured her with Doctor of Divinity under 'honoris causa' in 2004. She was also on the Staff team in the Andhra Pradesh Council of Churches from 1980 -82.

Challenging times for Christians in South Asia

The National Council of Churches in India strongly condemns the acts of violence perpetrated on Christians and similar religious minorities in the South Asian region.

We deeply regret that fanatic fascist religious forces are taking the law in their hands and determining who should live in the regions and who should be subjugated and even exterminated. 

The governments of the countries in the region feign surprise and shock at the incidence of such attacks on minorities. Loud but hollow speeches are made that terrorists will not be spared. The opposition parties blame their respective governments for such occurrences and tend to get political mileage for themselves rather than addressing the problem. 

The army and the police are to stand for secular values and principles as well as ensure justice and protection for the vulnerable. However even soldiers and police personnel belong to different religious communities. They could also be influenced by different communal ideologies. They may even be forced to submit to the diktats of their commanding officers. They may also be inadequately equipped to face the the onslaught of communal militant forces.

In the globalized world of our times even religion is commercialized and used by economic, political and religious leaders for their own selfish ends. Human beings do not seem to have any value in the context of the allurement of power and pleasure. Hence large numbers of people are killed; their deaths are considered as being unavoidable for the sake of the attractive end in view. Even religious killing and martyrdom is glorified.

Unless the secular minded people of the lands speak out, this carnage will continue! 

Unless the religious leaders emphasize the important of mutual love and community togetherness, this phenomenon of communal hatred will continue to breed and spread! 

Unless communities resolve that they will not allow hate-mongers to infiltrate their neighborhoods, this evil will not be stopped! 

Having just celebrated Good Friday and Easter, let us as Christians prayerfully and affirmatively stand for what is 'responsible' and 'liberating' in South Asia.

We are well aware that the scourge of religious extremism is also rampant in the Middle East, Africa and elsewhere. May we be inspired and empowered by the crucified-resurrected Jesus Christ to be channels of justice and peace!

Rev. Dr. Roger Gaikwad,

General Secretary, NCCI

An Easter Reflection from Rev. Dr. Roger Gaikwad, General Secretary of NCCI.

TRANSFORMING LIFE-THREATENING REALITIES INTO LIFE-AFFIRMING SITUATIONS

 Resurrection Experience in This Life itself! 

The resurrection of Jesus has significance not only for life after death but also for our life here and now. The resurrection of Jesus is not merely good news for individuals in their personal lives, but it has collective significance for human history and all creation. Over the centuries, Christians seem to have become content with the good news of the resurrection in terms of the hope of life it offers after death. Human beings in general do not want to die. Our survival instinct has made us afraid of death. Christ’s resurrection gives us comforting assurance: “We will not die! We will come back to life!” Funeral sermons usually focus on this hope. Quite often our hymns give expression to such a faith affirmation. Addressing some disappointed people in his times who considered Jesus to be a great martyr, whose message and ministry came to a premature end with his crucifixion, Paul declared, ‘If for this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.” (I Cor. 15: 19) However, today perhaps Paul would tell many Christians, “If for life after death only we believe in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.”

Belief in Life after Death: Not something New!

Belief in life after death was not something very new or revolutionary in the times of Jesus. The parable of Jesus about the rich man and Lazarus (Luke16:19-31) gives an indication of the beliefs of the people in his times. In the parable it is said that Lazarus died and went to Abraham’s bosom while the rich man died and went to Hades where he was in torment. Both had a life after death. However it was almost a reversal of their earthly conditions: Lazarus experienced bliss while the rich man suffered. Moreover there was a great chasm between Abraham’s place where Lazarus dwelt and Hades where the rich man languished; one could not cross over from one place to another. Another instance of belief in life after death was the conversation between the repentant thief and Jesus at Golgotha (Luke 23: 39-43). Jesus assured the thief that he would be with Jesus in Paradise. In ancient Persian thought and culture, Paradise was a ‘walled garden’ or ‘park’. By Jesus’ time Paradise was believed to be a pleasant resting place for the righteous dead. So, belief in existence after death was already there among the people in those days.

Rev. Dr. Bastiaan Wielenga, a renowned Indian Liberation theologian and Biblical scholar moves on… (1936 – 2015)

Rev. Dr. Bastiaan Wielenga (1936 - 2015)

Rev. Dr. Bastiaan Wielenga,  a German missionary who opted for Indian citizenship, and a globally renowned Indian Liberation theologian of our times passed away on 23^rd Dec 2015.  Among several commitments, he served the Ecumenical Christian Centre,  the Christian Institute for the Study of Religion and Society, and Tamilnadu Theological Seminary, where he played a major role in founding the’ Centre for Social Analysis’, and from where he retired as a Professor of Biblical Studies.

Dr. Bastiaan Wielenga's contributions towards articulation of contextual theologies, particularly Theology of the Poor and Indian Liberation Theology, through the Centre for Social Analysis and  Tamilnadu Theological Seminary in particular and the Senate of Serampore College at large, are indeed remarkable.

Dr. Bas authored several books including Towards an Eco-just Society (1999), Understanding Indian Society , co-authored with his wife Dr. Gabrielle Dietrich (1998), It is a long Road to Freedom: Perspectives of Biblical Theology (1996), A Commentary to Revelation (1995), Social Movements: Towards a Perspective, co-authored with John Desrochers (1991), and  Introduction to Marxism (1984). He was part of the editorial team that worked on Encyclopaedia of Marxism appointed by the Russian Marxian Council.  

His has contributed a lot towards Indian Ecumenical Movement also. His Bible Studies were instrumental in motivating the NCCI – Urban Rural Mission to position prophetically.  He was a great teacher who lived by what he taught.

He is survived by his wife Dr. Gabrielle Dietrich a renowned scholar and social activist, daughter Karuna and son Prashad.

The NCCI deeply mourns his demise and prays for the family to be filled with God’s Peace and Grace.

"The question of liberation is more urgent than ever, in Asia as elsewhere. Whether Christians will be able to address the question will depend on their readiness to go against the tide of Mammon, to turn to the Galilees of those who are excluded today and enter into a common search to find how struggles for survival can become struggles for life in its fullness."

-       Bastiaan Wielenga

On behalf of the Council

Rev. Dr. Roger Gaikwad,

General Secretary – NCCI  

Christmas Message from Rev. Dr. Roger Gaikwad, General Secretary of NCCI

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

What significance does the celebration of Christmas have for us in India this year?

In a country where 25^th December is being promoted by the Government as Good Governance Day, when in reality the large body of citizens is being adversely affected by the political manipulation of governance, the message of Christmas comes to us in Isaiah 9:6-7

For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

In a country where fundamentalism and communalism are breeding hatred, intolerance and violence, Ephesians 2:14-19 reminds us about the importance of Jesus:

For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us. He has abolished the law with its commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new humanity in place of the two, thus making peace, and might reconcile both groups to God in one body through the cross, thus putting to death that hostility through it . . .  for through him both of us have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God,

When in our country many (the poor, women, children, dalits, tribals/adivasis, the disabled, the discriminated, the stigmatized . . .) are becoming victims of the policies and strategies of development, Mary brings a message of transformative hope for the oppressed and the downtrodden in Luke 1:46- 53

“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.

Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;

for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.

He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.

He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly;

he has filled the hungry with good things,  and sent the rich away empty. 

In times of natural calamities, be it floods or drought, the Christmas message is that God is Emmanuel “God with us”.

Indeed the Word has become flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14). Here is God pitching a tent in our midst and travelling with us through all the “wilderness” calamitous experiences of life. This Jesus assures us, “I am with you always, to the close of the age.” (Matt.28:20) 

In a world where humans are struggling with suffering and sin, the Christmas message as recorded in Hebrews 2:17-18 and Hebrews 4:15-16 is

Therefore he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. 

Joy to the world, the Lord has come; let us receive him in our hearts, families, communities and all creation!

Rev. Dr. Roger Gaikwad

General Secretary

National Council of Churches in India.

If you cannot see the video, click here: https://youtu.be/5UiQAU79kPo

(Info. - Length: 1m:12s; Format: Video with sound)

Relief and Rehabilitation work in Chennai by Church of South India (CSI)

This is an email received from Rev. Dr. D. R. Sadananda, General Secretary of Church of South India (CSI) updating us about the calamitous situation in Chennai and the response of CSI, through its Diaconal Ministry CSI-SEVA that has been coordinating with the Dioceses in carrying out relief operations in flood affected areas. We solicit your prayers and support for the Chennai situation.

Relief work continues by the Church of South India Synod
with the help of the dioceses and facilitated by the CSI- SEVA and the Madras Diocese. 

Dear Dr. Roger Gaikwad,

Greetings from the CSI Synod Secretariat!

Thank you very much for your email expressing NCCI's solidarity with those affected by the Chennai floods. You aware that Chennai and different parts of Tamilnadu are still reeling under flooding caused by breached tanks and release of water from tanks and dams. This is considered to be due to effects of climate change and underlines our immediate and urgent commitment to climate justice.

The situation is unprecedented and has caught the population and administration unaware. But for a responsive neighbourhood that rose up to the occasion, the distress would have been many folds more. Social media was used as a great force multiplier in the process. The local churches have responded immediately. The Church and School/ Institution premises in many places have accommodated people. Local congregations in the affected and neighbouring areas have been distributing food packets, blankets and drinking water.

Thank you for your readiness to stand in solidarity with the people who have suffered a great loss because of the floods in Chennai. Thank you for the prayers, for the words of encouragement and comfort. The CSI-SEVA (Diaconal Ministry) has been co-ordinating with our Dioceses and is carrying out the need assessment in the flood affected areas.

You may kindly visit our web page, www.csisynod.com for daily updates. The CSI Face Book page, https://www.facebook.com/groups/csisynodcommunication/?ref=bookmarks also contains details of our interventions. We will keep you informed on the developments and the details of the relief work through CSI SEVA. 

In the next phase of resettling the victims in their homes when the water goes down, dry ration, non-food items, clothing and hygiene kits will be required. An estimated minimum of one million people are affected. The need is enormous. The community has great expectations from the local church. The local church has already stretched beyond its limits in responding immediately.

We solicit your prayers and support in helping the worst affected poor families to weave back their lives together in dignity.

Warm regards

Yours sincerely

Rathnakara Sadananda

Rev. Dr. D. R. Sadananda
General Secretary-CSI & Hon. Secretary CSI TA

Chennai situation: An Appeal to all Churches.

Dear Ecumenical Colleagues,

We all are aware of the natural calamity that has wrecked havoc in Tamilnadu. I am sure many of you must be praying for the people of the region.A few of you may also have sent your support in cash or kind to them.

In case you would still like to send help, you may do it through CASA since CASA is the social service wing of the NCCI. You may contact Dr. Sushant Agrawal, Director of CASA (casa@del6.vsnl.in or sushant@casa-india.org; Tel. 011-25730611, 25730612) or the South Zone office of CASA in Chennai (Dr. Mrs. Florina Immaculate Mary Benoit, Chief Zonal Officer, CASA South Zone, 4 Church Road, Vepery, Chennai 600 007, Tamil Nadu, India, Tel: +91-44-25321297, E-Mail: florina@casa-india.org ).

In case it is more convenient for you to render help directly, you may also do so. You could even contact the offices of Tamil Nadu Christian Council, Arcot Lutheran Church, United Evangelical Churches in India, Church of South India, The Salvation Army or any other church/agency in Tamil Nadu.


Thanking you,

Sincerely,

Roger Gaikwad
General Secretary, NCCI.

Paris Terror and Tragedy: Crying in solidarity! Calling for peace with justice!

There are too many of us who know what it means to have terrorism touch our lives, our loved ones, and our sense of connection with the people around us. Today, France and Lebanon are in the midst of that fog of tragedy. Even if we aren’t directly affected, we still feel some of the pain of the families of those killed and injured. And so even the National Council of Churches in India expresses our solidarity with our brothers and sisters in France, Lebanon and across the world that are mourning, suffering, experiencing rape, being rendered homeless, running and struggling for refuge, going through an excruciating sense of helplessness and hopelessness. Bold speeches are being made and solidarity statements are being uttered, such as “We all are France!” One wonders whether we would be concerned enough to declare, “We all are Afghanistan! We all are Iraq! We all are Syria! We all are Rohingyas!”

The frightening sense of vulnerability that the attack has induced is shared by every citizen and every government in the alliance of countries – European, American and Arab – part of a coalition formed to “degrade and destroy” ISIS, in Barack Obama’s words. 

Faced with such an international situation, people and their governments are concerned about security. Increased surveillance measures may be necessary. Greater official intrusiveness into the private lives of citizens through expanded data and internet access laws may come to be seen as unavoidable. But total security is an illusion.

There is also a real concern that in the days ahead, there will be those who will try to use the Parisian atrocity to divide society - already with a number of horrific tweets talking about killing all Muslims - and as an excuse to launch attacks against Muslims. Societies will lapse into polarization, recrimination and deepening division.

As the Guardian puts it, “In the end, however, more war is not the answer. If other European and Middle Eastern cities are to avoid the agony experienced by Paris, the international community must finally tackle head on the problem that lies at the heart of this rolling, expanding terrorist crisis – Syria. The anarchy inside Syria has allowed Isis, and other groups linked to al-Qaida, to seize territory and wealth. They feed on the chaos caused by the war. And yet half-baked international peace efforts have repeatedly floundered.” 

(Cf. http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2015/nov/15/observer-view-paris-attacks-syria)

Open Letter to Prime Minister of India from the General Secretary of NCCI

Dear Prime Minister,

Greetings!

Kindly lend me your ears as I share my mann ki baat with you.

You are a very good orator, who can rouse the masses. You are a very powerful executive, who can control all actions of the government. You are an IT savvy person, who can make clever use of all forms of media to your development schemes. You are an astute business entrepreneur, who can maneuver the globalization system to serve your vision of development. You are indeed a model for many 21st century persons who aspire to fame, position and power.

However while all seems grand and beautiful with your leadership, there are serious concerns that many Indian citizens would like to draw to your notice. They know that you are not unaware of these serious concerns, but are distressed that you are not taking actions which the situations demand. Let me highlight these concerns by drawing your attention to the Preamble of the Indian Constitution.

The Preamble of the Indian Constitution describes five cardinal features of the Indian state:

(1) India is a Sovereign State:

As a sovereign independent state, India is free both internally and externally to take her own decisions and implement these for her people and territories.

However don’t you think that our sovereignty is under threat at the hands of certain powers within and outside the country? For instance, as you are well aware, economic globalization limits the capacity of our country to determine our own policy outcomes in three main ways: through trade and economic integration; financial markets; and the competition for employment. So also our state sovereignty is weakened by fundamentalist, casteist, communal and commercial forces within the country.

(2) India is a Socialist State:

It reflects the country’s commitment to secure social, economic and political justice for its entire people. India stands for ending all forms of exploitation as well as for securing equitable distribution of income, resources and wealth.

However the difference in the wealth share held by India’s poorest 10 per cent and the richest 10 per cent is enormous; India’s richest 10 per cent holds 370 times the share of wealth that it’s poorest hold. Despite being a much larger economy and growing at a faster rate than its Asian regional peers, India’s progress on Human Development Index has been dismal due to poor social indicators.

Part IV of the Indian Constitution which talks about Directive Principles of State Policy asserts that the state shall strive to secure a social order in which justice – social, economic and political – shall inform all the institutions of national life; that the state shall strive to minimize inequalities in income; that operation of economic system does not result in the concentration of wealth and means of production to

  

the common detriment; etc. These guiding principles are far more important today as your Government talks about development.

(3) India is a Secular State:

Needless to tell you, there is no such thing as a state religion of India. India guarantees equal freedom to all religions; all religions enjoy equality of status and respect.

However a spate of controversies from promulgation of anti-conversion laws to attacks on religious persons and places based on rumoured, contrived and false allegations to ghar wapsi and love jihad do not at all glorify India as a secular state. I am sure you will agree that such situations should not be brushed aside simply by calling them ‘saddening’ and ‘undesirable’.

The issue of conversion, I suppose you are aware, has been mischievously publicized. The Indian Government Census figures for instance state that in 1951 Christians constituted only 2.23% of the Indian population while in 2011, Christians constituted only 2.30% of the Indian population. Where are the so-called massive numbers of conversions to Christianity as publicized by some sections of society? Still they keep misinterpreting church humanitarian services such as education, health care and social service as enticements to convert.

(4) India is a Democratic State:

We are proud that our country is the largest democracy in the world.

However I’m sure you do discern that Indian democracy is under threat. Our elections in certain sections of the country are influenced by money power, muscle power, and communal considerations. India’s Parliament too has been corrupted. Following the 2014 Parliamentary election, 185 MPs had criminal cases pending against them. Of these, 112 lawmakers faced charges related to murder, attempt to murder, communal disharmony, kidnapping, and crimes against women.

Citizens too routinely have to bribe public officials for services that are free by law – such as access to healthcare and education, obtaining telephone connections or driving licenses. India’s poor more often find themselves victims of the law rather than enjoying the protection of it. Corruption is also corroding the impartiality of India’s judiciary.

(5) India is a Republic: 

In India being a republic, we affirm a form of government in which power is explicitly vested in the people, who in turn exercise their power through elected representatives.

However, a big threat to the republican structure of our country is the rise of fascism. Fascism as you very well know is a political ideology that imposes strict social and economical measures as a method of empowering the government and stripping citizens of rights. Some of the defining characteristics of fascism are: racism/casteism, militarism, dictatorship, and destructive nationalistic policies.

Funeral Service of Bishop Dr. Taranath Sagar, Tributes and Condolence messages

The funeral service of Bishop Dr. Taranath Sagar was held on October 21, 2015  at 11:00 am at Richmond Town Methodist Church, Bangalore. It was attended by large numbers of people from around the country and abroad. The service was conducted by Rev. M. A. Daniel, General Secretary, MCI. Bishop Anil Servand delivered the message in which he spoke about Bishop Sagar’s ecumenical initiatives, various accomplishments and works he inspired. He also shared his intention to continue exploring possibilities to further the talks of the Methodist Church in India joining Church of North India (CNI), Church of South India (CSI) and the Marthoma Church in the Communion of Churches in India (CCI) for greater witness and service.

Among many esteemed leaders present, the following members gave eulogies: Bishop N. L. Karkare, President of the Council of Bishops, MCI; Bishop Subodh Mondol, Bishop, MCI Delhi Episcopal area; Bishop Philip Masih, Bishop, MCI Lucknow Episcopal area;  Dr. J. N. Hanchinmani, Central Treasurer, MCI; Fr. Bernard, Archbishop of Bangalore; Rev. M. A. Daniel, General Secretary, MCI; Mr. Michael Paul, Executive Council Member, MCI; Most Rev. Dyvashirvadam, Moderator, CSI; Rt. Rev. P. C. Singh, Deputy Moderator, CNI; Dr. Mathews George Chunakara, General Secretary, Christian Conference of Asia; Rev. Christopher Rajkumar (on behalf of Rev. Dr. Roger Gaikwad, General Secretary, NCCI); Dr. Santanu Patro, Registrar, Senate of Serampore College; Rev. Dr. Vincent Rajkumar, Director, CISRS; Mr. Sanjeev Dayanand, Conference Treasurer, South India Regional Conference, MCI; Rev. B. U. Bhaktanand, Brother-in-law of Bishop Dr. Sagar; Mr. Surendranath Sagar, Brother of Bishop Dr. Sagar; and Mrs. Sharon, Daughter of Bishop Dr. Sagar.

From the NCCI, Rev. Christopher Rajkumar, Rev. Caesar David, Rev. Sweety Helen and Mr. Samuel Jayakumar paid their respects on behalf of the NCCI family and placed wreaths. Dr. Saramma Varghese also placed wreaths on behalf of All India Council for Christian Women (AICCW) and the Orthodox Church. It was a solemn service marked with an air of grief. It was also a time of thanksgiving to God for the leadership and vision that the Church has been blessed with by the wonderful ministry of Bishop Dr. Sagar. The rich tributes and remembrances shared during this service gave evidence of the profundity of Bishop Dr. Sagar’s work, and there was the overwhelming sense of inspiration to continue carrying on his vision and faithful service for the Glory of God and to the blessing of people.

NCCI office received several condolence messages / tributes. These are found here below. 

(Please note that there are also other messages received on NCCI's facebook page - www.facebook.com/nccionline). We are grateful to the individuals and organizations for writing in to express grief and sympathy.

These messages will be also passed on to the family of Bishop Dr. Sagar.

_______________________________________

A  few  minutes  back,  have  received  information  through  msg that  Bishop  Taranath  Sagar,  President,  NCCI  has  passed  away into  glory.

We  had  been  together  in  the  NCCI  Executive  Committee  during 2004-08  and  then  had  served  with  him  during  his  Presidentship  during  2008-12.

I  vividly  remember  his  interjection  during  the  2004 Tirunelvelli  Quadrennial  and  then  working  together  in  the Presidium  of  2008-12,  Bishop  Sagar,  the  President,  Sushma, Michael  Angeleous  and  self  as  Vice-Presidents.  We  were  quite a team  and  it  was  difficult  times  we  faced  -  with  court cases  against  NCCI  filed  in  the  Nagpur  Bench  of  the  Bombay High  Court  as  well,  in  the  Nagpur  District  Court.

During  the  2010  CCA  Assembly  in  Kuala  Lumpur,  were  together along  with  Sushma  Ramaswamy  (my  co-Vice President)  as  NCCI delegates.

After  the  2012  Bengaluru  Quadrennial,  we  met  off  and  on  and the  last  time,  I  met  him  was  in  New  Delhi  at  the  ESHA programme  during  26  &  27  August,  2015.  We  exchanged  notes and  views  at  the  YMCA,  New  Delhi  during  dinner  time.  And so,  it  is  difficult  to  digest  that  Bishop  Taranath  Sagar  is no  more  with  us.

As  far  as  I  can  recollect,  Bishop  Sagar  is  the  2nd  NCCI President  to  have  passed  away  while  holding  office.  The earlier  one  was  Bishop  Vinod  Peter  (CNI)  during  the  2000-04 term  but  this  was  Bishop  Sagar's  2nd  consecutive  term. He  was  also  the  2nd  Methodist  Bishop  to  be  elected  for  a  second consecutive  term.  Earlier,  it  was Bishop  S. L. Parmar It  is  a  big  loss  to the  Methodist  Church  in  India  and  to the  ecumenical  movement  in  India, in  Asia  and  globally  and more  so, his  wife  who  has   been  his  source  of  strength  and encouragement  through  out  their  wedded  life  and  the  off springs.  My  heartfelt  condolence  to  you  Mrs.  Sagar  and  the children.  May  the  Spirit  uphold  you  and  strengthen  you,  guide  you  and  lead  you  every  step  in  your  pilgrimage  with  the hope  that in  eternity,  we  will  be  re-united  with  our  loved

ones   who  have  gone  ahead  of  us  to  eternal  glory.

Rev.  Dr.  P. B. M.  Basaiawmoit

NCCI  Vice-President  (2008-12)

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 Press Release

 Bishop Taranath Sagar Passes Away
19 October 2015

Bishop Dr. Taranath Sagar, senior Bishop of the Methodist Church in India and the President of the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) passed away at 8.00 p.m. on Monday 19 October 2015. He died of a heart attack in a hospital in Bangalore, India. The funeral service will be held at 11.00 a.m. on Wednesday 21 October at the Richmond Town Methodist Church, Bangalore.

Bishop Sagar has been actively involved in the ecumenical movement during the past three decades through various ecumenical and ecclesiastical organisations in India, Asia and at the global levels. He has been a member of the Executive Committee of the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA) since its last General Assembly held in Jakarta in May 2015. He was first elected to the Central Committee of the World Council of Churches at the Port Allegro Assembly, Brazil in 2006 and for a second term at the Bussan Assembly in 2013. He was the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Bishop Conference in India, and President of the Asian Methodist Bishops Conference. He served numerous other church and ecumenical organisations in various capacities during the past several years including as the Secretary of the Maharashtra Christian Council, President of the Ecumenical Christian Centre, Bangalore and the United Theological College in Bangalore.

Recalling his ecumenical contributions, Dr. Mathews George Chunakara, General Secretary of the Christian Conference of Asia said that “With the passing away of Bishop Taranath Sagar, the Indian and Asian ecumenical movement lost a committed ecumenist who has been faithfully echoing the concerns and aspirations of the Asian churches in the global ecumenical movement. We thank God for the gifts God bestowed on Bishop Taranath Sagar, who guided the Church and various ecumenical organisations during the past three decades. He was a committed Christian, ecumenical Statesman, staunch defender, who was always raising his voice for justice and dignity of the marginalized and the persecuted. While tirelessly articulating his convictions, Bishop Sagar could relate to all sections of the people, and he spared no efforts to defend justice and dignity”.

Mathews George further added that “such was the personal charisma of Bishop Sagar that he became a servant of God and a leader in the Asian and global ecumenical movement. Bishop Sagar always possessed the strength to be in solidarity with the marginalized, uncompromising even in the face of fierce opposition out of his Christian commitment and convictions.”

         

- CCA COMMUNICATIONS

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Dear Dr.Roger,

We are deeply shocked and saddened to hear the sudden demise of Rt.Rev.Dr. Taranath Sagar on 19th October 2015 at Bengaluru. We express our heartfelt condolence to the bereaved family members, colleagues and friends. At this time of mourning we pray to the Almighty to give moral strength, courage and support to all the members of the family,  kith and kin, colleagues and friends. It is a great loss to the global ecumenical family and Bishop Sagar will be remembered for his committed and dedicated service to humanity that he carried a message of love, peace and justice to all human and nature which needs to be sustained and continued with a hope for ever. Our Prayer to God and wish his soul to rest in eternal peace in the abode of Almighty.

In Solidarity,

William Stanley

on-behalf of IRDWSI, ODAF, FCFC and Oikotree.  

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Dear  Dr  Roger Gaikwad

We  the  Utkal Christian Council family  are shocked to hear the sad news of departing of our dear leader Bishop Dr  Taranath Sagar , the President of NCCI . He left us when

NCCI is  on her new ventures . We pray almighty to give His heavenly   consolation to the bereaved  members of his family  and his Church .

Jyotsna Rani Patro

Secretary UCC

on behalf of all member churches   

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Dear Ecumenical Friends,

Its  a sad news for all of us to hear the final call of Bishop Sagar, for eternal rest. As the President of the NCCI he has rendered commendable leadership  all through the various times. Indeed he was a colleagues and a friend to one and all. l sincerely convey  the deepest sympathy to his  wife and all  Methodist Church members from NCCI, and all its partners at  this time of bereavement. May his soul be  RIP.

I  beg your  pardon for my inability to be present in person, yet my prayer with you all.

Sincerely yours

Revd. Dr.Mar Atsongchanger

Vice President, NCCI 

Executive Secretary Ao Baptist Church Association(ABAM)

Impur- 798615, Mokokchung, Nagaland, E-mail: abamimpur7@yahoo.co.in website: www.abamimpur.com Ph: 0369-2262202

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We were shocked and saddened to hear passing away of Bishop Sagar. My only extended engagement with Bishop Sagar was during the visit of Indian delegation to China in November 2014 and I fondly remember the friendly and gracious ways he engaged with the Indian group as well as the Chinese colleagues we met in a few congregations, church institutions, theological seminaries, and the Chinese government officials for Religious affairs. I have referred several times to few photos we posted on this trip in the our website: www.ftesea.org  when we talked about the China visit and Indian delegation members. 

It is our prayer that God give the needed strength to his family members, office, church, ecumenical colleagues, and to all his friends/well wishers to bear this irreplaceable loss, and to continue the  ministry that Bishop has been engaged in church and society.

Shanti/Peace

H.S. Wilson

Executive Director, FTESEA

web: www.ftesea.org

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To

Rev.Dr.Roger Gaikwad

General Secretary

National Council of Churches in India 

Nagpur 

 Dear Dr.Roger,

I can not believe that Bishop Dr.Taranath Sagar has passed away. I am shocked and saddened to hear this tragic news. 

I had the privilege of working with him form 2008 to 2012 as Vice President of NCCI during his first Presidential tenure. 

His able leadership had guided NCCI through difficult times. He had profound engagement in the worldwide ecumenical movement. 

I remember all good moment I spend with him on and off the meetings. He was kind enough to host several NCCI's meeting at his place in Bangalore. That reflected his deep commitment for the movement. 

His sudden death has caused great loss to the ecumenical communities around the world, particularly to NCCI. 

I join the behaved family in this time of grief and pain. at the same time, I thank God for blessing the Ecumenical Movement in India through his potential leadership. 

My deepest condolence and prayer 

kindest regards

angelious michael 

  

Angelious Michael

Coordinator

Partnership Desk & 

Youth Desk

Jeypore Evangelical Lutheran Church

Jeypore-764 001, Koraput Dist

Odisha - INDIA

Ph:   +91-6854-231440(off)

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To:
General Secretary
National Council of Churches in India

With sadness and shock, we received the news of the passing away of Bishop Dr. Taranath Sagar, Senior Bishop of Methodist Church in India and the President of the National Council of Churches in India.  Bishop Sagar was one of the tall Ecumenical leaders of India who was the proponent of wider ecumenism and worked diligently for that goal during the past 3 decades through various ecumenical and ecclesiastical organizations in India, Asia and at the Global level.  The encouraging move from the Methodist Church in India to initiate the discussion to be part of the Communion of Churches in India was the result of his envision.  In his passing away, CSI has lost a good friend, and a valuable partner in mission.  The Churches in India and in Asia lost a powerful voice which represented the marginal communities with genuine commitment. 

On behalf of Church of South India, the Moderator, Most Rev. Dr. G. Dyvasirvadam, the Deputy Moderator, Rt. Rev. Thomas K. Oommen, the Treasurer, Adv. Robert Bruce and the General Secretary, Rev. Dr. D. R. Sadananda, express deep condolences on the demise of Bishop Sagar and pray that the presence of the comforting spirit of the Lord be upon his wife Mrs. Padma Sagar and his son and daughter and their families.

RATHNAKARA SADANANDA

REV.DR. D.R. SADANANDA
General Secretary, CSI &
Hon. Secretary, CSITA
CHURCH OF SOUTH INDIA
SYNOD SECRETARIAT
CSI Centre, No. 5 Whites Road
Royapettah, Chennai - 600 014, INDIA
synodcsi@gmail.com
csi@vsnl.com

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Dear Rev. Gaikwad,

I am distressed at the news of the passing away of former Chairperson and the present ECC Council Memeber Rt. Rev. Dr. Taranath Sagar on October 19, 2015.  As I understand he was a godly man with sterling virtues and will be deeply mourned by the NCCI Committee.

May I tender our deepest condolences from my personal behalf and on behalf of the National Council of YMCAs of India.  Our prayers for the peaceful repose of the soul in heaven and for strength to the bereaved family in this hour of tragedy.

--

Ch.R.P. Mani Kumar

National General Secretary

The National Council of YMCAs of India

Bharat Yuvak Bhavan

Jai Singh Road, New Delhi-110001

Mobile : +91-9654370580

E-mail : ngsymcaindia@gmail.com

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Dear Dr.Gaikwad

We convey our deepest condolences from Normisjon as the NCCI lost its very dynamic President Bishop Taranath Sagar. I and my wife had a very close working partnership with the Methodist Church in Andaman Islands under the leadership of Bishop Taranath Sagar and we maintained a long-standing friendship with him beyond our denominational boundaries. His active involvement in the mission initiatives of the Church is very much remembered at this point of time. 

We pray that the NCCI and the Methodist Church will find peace and comfort at this moment of loss of a great mentor. Be assured of our continuous prayers.

Sincerely

Gladstone.R.Rajesh Kumar

Coordinator-Asia Base

Normisjon

Address: H#62 First Floor Road 7A Block H Banani Dhaka - 1213 Bangladesh

Phone: +8801787659336 (O) +8801977659336 (P)

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Dear Mr Gaikwad,

Greetings from Geneva

Please find attached a message of condolence from the general secretary, Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit, on behalf of the World Council of Churches.  We hope that you will be able to share it as part of Bishop Sagar’s funeral service on tomorrow.  If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

With kindest regards,

Garland F. Pierce

Rev. Garland F. Pierce

Senior Assistant to the General Secretary

World Council of Churches

Route de Ferney 150

PO Box 2100

CH-1211 Geneva 2

Switzerland

Phone:  +41 22 791 6093

Fax:  +41 22 791 6535

Email:  gfp@wcc-coe.org

www.oikoumene.org

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Dear Rev. Dr. Roger Gaikwad,

Greetings in His precious name. I would be grateful to you if you could convey my hearty condolence to the bereaved family of Bishop Taranath Sagar.

CONDOLENCE MESSAGE

       I have come to know today that Bishop Taranath Sagar, President, NCCI has died of heart attack which shocked me very much. I have no hesitation to say that one of the leading church leaders in India has left us untimely. I had come to know the Rev. Taranath Sagar as the General Secretary of the Methodist Church in India some time in 1990 while I was the General Secetary of the National Council of Churches in India. He was very promt in replying any letter which he had received from NCCI office without fail. He was a man of integrity in his personal life. It appeared that the constituent members of NCCI are proud of his good leadership. His tremendous contributions with the help of the Rev. Dr. Roger Gaiwad, the General Secretary of the National Council in the ongoing ministry of the National Council would not be erased in our minds. May God be with his bereaved family even in the days to come. 

Rev. K. LungMuana

Former General Secretary, NCCI

Mission Vengthlang, Aizawl, Mizoram: 796005

Tel. 09862575021

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Dear all:
I am deeply shocked to know about the sudden and sad demise of Bishop Dr. Taranath Sagar. Needless to say that the Global Ecumenical Forum has lost an asset.

I was blessed to be a part of the team , that worked under Bishop Sagar’s leadership , during his first tenure as the NCCI President . My deepest condolences to the bereaved family and the Church . May God rest his soul in peace . 

Sagarika Chetty
Jeypore Evangelical Lutheran Church
Odisha

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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I am very much shocked to hear the sad news that Bishop Taranath Sagar of the Methodist Church in India has suddenly expired by heart attack. He was one of my friends and as much I know him he was very much open minded and humble church leader. He tried his best to serve sincerely his own Church and Ecumenical bodies in national and International level. It is a great loss for all of us indeed! May be he was too much involved with lot of responsibilities and did not care about his health. 

I personally and on behalf our Church would like to send condolence to all his dear and near ones for this time of mourning. We pray to Almighty God that he may grant his soul eternal peace and  comfort to his family members and friends.  

"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord,...they will rest from their labor."  (Rev. 14:13)

In Christ,

Bishop Paul S. Sarker

Bishop of Dhaka and Moderator

Church of Bangladesh

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The Salvation Army  National Secretariat _________________________________ 

Rev.Dr. Roger Gaikwad,
NCCI General Secretary.


Dear Respected Sir,

It is very shocking news to receive that Bishop Dr. Taranath S. Sagar, President of NCCI was passed away on Monday 19th October. We are so blessed by his able leadership especially as a President of NCCI. We had wonderful time with him in several occasions. Please pass on our deep condolence to Bishop's bereaved family and Methodist Church in India. On behalf of The Salvation Army India we pay our Tributes to Bishop Dr Taranath Sagar, a Man of God.

We are very sorry for the late tributes from our side. At present we are in holidays and when I just opened my office mail box I have noted the below mail and responding immediately. At the same time I have forwarded to all the heads of the Salvation Army in India.

Grace and Peace be with the family of Bishop Taranath Sagar and all the colleagues who closely worked with him.


Sincerely


Daniel Raju Dasari
Lieut.Colonel
National Secretary

The Salvation Army
National Secretariat
37 Lenin Sarani
Dharmatala, Kolkata-700 013
West Bengal, INDIA
Tel: + 91 (0) 33 2249 7210 ext: 201
Fax: + 91 (0) 33 22497210

E-mail: ind_secretariat@ind.salvationarmy.org
http://www.salvationarmy.org/india 

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Dear Rev Roger Gaikwad,

It is with great sorrow that we in CMAI, learned of the death of  Rt. Rev. Bishop Taranath Sagar.  I write this to express my sincere condolences on his sudden and unexpected passing.  As President of NCCI,  he had a strong commitment to the ecumenical movement in India, and I know that you will be missing his dynamic leadership in the family of NCCI. 

We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his wife and to the entire family who grieve, and we pray that our Lord provides the much needed comfort and His divine peace during this difficult time.

Kindly accept our condolences.

Yours sincerely,

  

Dr. Bimal Charles

General Secretary, CMAI

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Dear Members of the Methodist Church in India,

dear Members of the National Council of Churches of India (NCCI).

With profound sadness we have received the news of the passing away of Bishop Taranath Sunanam Sagar. Churches in India and Asia but also Christians around the world will miss his dynamic ecumenical leadership.

Bread for the World-EED has always appreciated the development oriented initiatives of the Methodist Church in India in cooperation with CASA and NCCI. Please be assured that we are with you in prayers. May we ask you to convey our deep sympathy to his family.

Very sincerely yours,

Roswita Kupke

Head of South Asia Unit

Brot für die Welt - Evangelischer Entwicklungsdienst

Evangelisches Werk für Diakonie und Entwicklung e.V.

Caroline-Michaelis-Str.1

10115 Berlin

Phone.:  +49 30 65211 1304 | Fax:  +49 30 65211 3304

roswita.kupke@brot-fuer-die-welt.org

www.brot-fuer-die-welt.de

www.brot-fuer-die-welt.de

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