Miao: India’s easternmost diocese Sunday joined Pope Francis to pray for Christians persecuted all over the world.
The diocese of Miao in Arunachal Pradesh state organized candle lit special prayer service at 2 pm on March 1.
Catholics and several of their from other religions gathered at the Chris the Light Shrine, Miao, and prayed for the persecuted Church and asked God to stop what they described were inhuman and horrifying crimes committed against Christians.
Pope Francis had urged faithful to pray for persecuted Christians at 2 pm on March 1 (local time).
Those present at the Miao program were deeply moved when told about the heinous cruelty committed against the Christians. “I feel deeply disturbed by what is happening to our brothers and sisters across the world. I join with our Pope to pray for them. I hope it ends soon,” said Likhum, the church secretary in Miao.
Mossang, a Catholic woman, said the Church was undergoing a difficult time. “This reminds me of what happened during the Apostles’ time. God has always answered our prayer and I am sure he will help us all,” she said and added, “I thank Pope Francis for helping us to express our solidarity with our persecuted brothers and sisters.”
The diocese of Miao has been praying for Pope’s good health and safety in the wake of increased threat for his life. In January, children in the diocese recited 22,064,841 “Hail Mary” for the same intention.
The diocese also offered special prayers for the Pope’s good health and safety at the Sunday program.