By John Singarayar
Mumbai, March 17, 2024: In a unified effort to uplift spirits and invoke divine guidance, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) has declared March 22, 2024, as a “National Day of Fasting and Prayer” across all dioceses in India.
The decision was reached during CBCI’s 36th General Body Meeting held in Bengaluru that addressed pressing matters concerning the Church and the nation.
The purpose of this solemn observance is twofold: to lift hearts in prayer for the Church in India and to intercede for the nation, particularly in light of the upcoming general elections. The call to prayer extends to all members of the Catholic faith, including priests, religious, and lay faithful, emphasizing the importance of collective supplication during this holy season of Lent and the Paschal Triduum.
Cardinal Oswald Gracias, archbishop of Bombay, extended a heartfelt invitation to all dioceses, urging bishops, priests, and parishioners to participate wholeheartedly in this spiritual endeavor. The initiative aims to unite believers across the country in a day of introspection, repentance, and renewal, aligning their hearts with the will of God and seeking His blessings upon the Church and the nation.
Each diocese is encouraged to organize a continuous period of prayer lasting 12 hours on March 22. This extended time of devotion may include traditional practices such as Mass, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, recitation of the Rosary, the Divine Mercy Chaplet, and the Way of the Cross. By engaging in these sacred rituals, believers express their faith and trust in God’s providence, seeking His wisdom and guidance in times of uncertainty.
The significance of this day is magnified by the current socio-political landscape in India, with the impending general elections serving as a focal point for prayer intentions. Believers are called to intercede for the nation, asking for divine intervention in the democratic process and invoking God’s wisdom upon all those involved.
Cardinal Gracias, in his message to his faithful, emphasized the importance of spiritual reflection and repentance during this period of fasting and prayer. He encouraged believers to offer their sacrifices and petitions with open hearts, trusting in the mercy and providence of God. Additionally, he urged leaders within each diocese to actively engage their parishioners and promote participation in this sacred observance.
As preparations for the day unfold, anticipation and enthusiasm are palpable among the Catholic community in India. The initiative serves as a unifying force, bringing together believers from diverse backgrounds to seek solace and guidance in the midst of challenges facing the Church and the nation.
In the spirit of solidarity and faith, Catholics across India are gearing up to observe the day of profound spiritual significance. With hearts uplifted in prayer and minds focused on God’s will, believers embark on a journey of introspection and renewal, trusting in the power of collective supplication to effect positive change in the Church and the nation.
The CBCI’s call underscores the profound spiritual commitment of the Catholic community in India. As believers unite in prayer, they affirm their unwavering faith in God’s providence and His transformative power to bring about healing and renewal in the Church and the nation alike.
The same bishops who have called for “prayer and fasting” NEVER had the slightest courage to raise the concerns of the Christian community when Prime Minister Modi visited the Catholic Cathedral, Delhi last Easter and during the Christmas party held at the official residence of Prime Minister Modi. Let the Catholic prelates STOP feeding the “opium of religiosity” to their folk. Instead they must exercise their “prophetic ministry” seriously.