New bishop of Raigarh: "Caring for Dalits and fighting fundamentalism"
Mgr Paul Toppo will be installed as head of the diocese on 24 May. "I place myself under the patronage of St Michael and Mary, Help of Christians, to press ahead with my pastoral work."
Raigarh (AsiaNews) Pastoral care of Dalits and tribals and launching a campaign of "peace and harmony" against fundamentalist violence are the objectives of Mgr Paul Toppo, appointed bishop of Raighar in the northern state of Chattisgarh.
"I was afraid and humbled when I heard of my appointment," he told AsiaNews. "Hence, with these apprehensions, I choose "Sail into the Deep' as my motto, and I have decided to concentrate on strengthening the faith of my people."
The bishop will be installed as head of the diocese on 24 May. "Raigarh is a very neglected area: the population is mostly made up of tribal groups and one-third are Dalit Christians. They are very poor, landless workers. It is very difficult to work with or for them. Their response to our efforts is not very encouraging.
"This is largely because, for centuries, they have been reduced to this state by people who have taken advantage of their poverty and ignorance. The tribals on the other hand are on the frontiers of change and development; they need pastoral care and guidance."
Raigarh has long been the target of attacks by fundamentalist nationalists. "They use the usual weapon of conversions through the local press: this often inflames people dangerously. They are a great worry in the area, they are a strong and powerful force and they indulge in hate campaigns against Christian missionaries. The only way to counter their hate propaganda is through a campaign of peace and harmony."
The diocese "is dedicated to St Michael, the Defender and Guardian Angel. It was installed on the feast day of Mary Help of Christians, and I place myself and the Diocese under their patronage and care."
Fr Theodore Lakara, in charge of the Marriage Tribunal of Ambika Diocese (120 kms from Raigarh) told AsiaNews he was "elated" about the new bishop's appointment. "This is a very vast tribal diocese and the bishop has a keen understanding of the socio-political scenario there. I hope his efforts succeed in the co-ordination and reinforcement of all Christian agencies working here. The area is really sought after by fundamentalists: we hope and pray that the new bishop can counter the spiral of hate and violence."
.png)
