Leo XIV authorised the promulgation of the decree on the heroic virtues of the Syro-Malabar priest who lived between 1888 and 1949. A great intellectual, he was always attentive to the needs of the poor and the sick. For them, he founded the "Mount of Charity" and the Medical Sisters of Saint Joseph, who continue to care for everyone in India, without distinction of religion or caste.
Catholic charities are working to prevent child marriage through development and the fight against superstitions, helping everyone, regardless of religious affiliation. “We focus on community development, human dignity, and empowerment,” said Father Birendra Tete.
Faced with growing hostility promoted by nationalist groups through anti-conversion laws and their intimidation against Christmas celebrations, former Supreme Court judge Markandey Katju has issued an invitation to all non-Christians in India: ‘The only correct policy is one that keeps us united. Let us pay tribute on this feast day to the contribution of Christians to our country.’
The Hindu nationalist candidate defeated the left-wing candidate in local elections in a town at the centre of a dispute over ownership of 400 acres of land pitting the Waqf against some 500 Christian families. Modi's party also won in the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram, for the first time, although Indian National Congress came out on top in the southern Indian state.
In India, prejudices about skin color, closely linked to the caste system, are still widespread. But a couple from Madhya Pradesh who ended up in the crosshairs of haters after posting pictures of their wedding is offering an original response, starting with their own story. It is a countercultural message in a society where everything from Ayurveda to Bollywood films still suggests that skin must be light.
The Supreme Court has asked states and the central government to urgently identify and repeal all obsolete provisions that continue to contain discriminatory references to people with leprosy. According to the National Human Rights Commission, there are nearly 100 laws that limit the rights and access to services of even those who have been cured.
