By Matters India Reporter
Kochi, June 23, 2023: The ongoing violence in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur was condemned by the Mathruvedi (mothers’ forum) of the Syro-Malabar Church, based in Kerala, south.
Representatives from 24 dioceses who attended the June 23 international senate meeting of the forum prayed for those killed in the violence while expressing solidarity with those who lost their homes and other properties in Manipur.
Ethnic violence that started on May 3 continues even after 50 years. Clashes between the majority Meitei community and minority Kuki tribals have led to the death of more than 100 people and destruction of houses and churches worth billions of rupees. At least 50,000 people are now living in relief camps.
The conference was held at Mount St. Thomas in Kakkanad, a suburb of Kochi, Kerala, the headquarters of the Syro-Malabar Church.
It was opened by Bishop Jose Pulickal of Kanjirapally, the forum’s patron who stressed the emergence of strong women leadership in the Church and society as the need of the times.
Bishop Pulickal says mothers with strong views and positions should rise to leadership positions. He urged mothers to understand the writings of the times, overcome crises and live cautiously.
Mathruvedi with units in parishes aims at the revival of families through mothers and help raise the community in a life rooted deep in Christian faith. It was started May 30, 2014 by Bishop Jose Porunnedam of Mananthavady.
Its mission statement says, “A devout and pious woman is always like a scented candle and a beacon of hope to her family, Church and society.”
The mathruvedi brought all mothers under one umbrella to foster their capabilities and strengthen their spiritual power, and to encourage a religious progress of the community through prayerful life.
Mathruvedi has helped the Church to become more maternal. The organization prioritizes spiritual activities through prayers- chain rosary and abstinence prayers.