There have been adverse reactions and unnecessary controversy from the Sangh Parivar over Archbishop Anil Couto of Delhi’s recent circular to Parish Priests and religious institutions, under his stewardship. Archbishop Couto, who is a Goan from Pomburpa, was the main celebrant at the Holy Spirit feast Mass in Margao, last Sunday. He spoke to a few journalists, who met him after the Mass and he had nothing political to say.
I am quoting the most relevant extracts of his circular, under controversy.
“We are witnessing a turbulent political atmosphere which poses a threat to the democratic principles enshrined in our Constitution and the secular fabric of our nation”.
“As we look forward towards 2019 when we will have new government let us begin a prayer campaign for our country from May 13, 2018, which marks the anniversary of the apparition of the Blessed Mother at Fatima, consecrating ourselves and our nation to the Immaculate Heart”
“I request that we observe a day of fast every Friday of the week by forgoing at least one meal and offering our penance and all our sacrifices for our spiritual renewal and that of our nation.”
“Moreover, I earnestly request that we organize an hour of Eucharistic adoration every Friday at a convenient time in all our parishes, religious houses and institution specifically praying for our nation”.
Except for the first part of the circular which might have caused some heartburns, the call is mainly for prayers, which is the duty of every religious head. In fact, the Church prays for its religious and political leaders every week, on Sundays. However, even the first para only expresses a sentiment which is widespread in the country and is not confined to the Church or the Archbishop. That the current scenario threatens the health of our democracy as also the secular polity is a concern that is shared by many well meaning and prominent citizens as also jurists of our country. So, would it be wrong for the Archbishop to share this concern with his flock and ask them to pray for the country and its leaders?
While many BJP and RSS leaders reacted virulently for no reason, Home Minister Rajnath Singh seemed most composed when he merely said that India does not discriminate on basis of religion.
However, most disturbed appeared to be the well-known fanatic supporter of BJP and anchor of one of the TV channels who went to the extent of blaming the Vatican for the Archbishop’s circular. In his usual arrogant tone he asked whether the Vatican was more democratic than India and whether Arch. Couto was asked by Congress to issue such circular. Readers in Goa will recall that the Church in Goa was being blamed for the anti-Congress wave in Goa in 2012 and for bringing BJP to power with absolute majority.
Since Archbishop Couto has nowhere blamed the Government for the current scenario nor has he asked for prayers for a change of Government, one can only say that the reactions are unwarranted and perhaps resultant of either a feeling of guilt or apprehension of consequences…
