Kochi: As India marks another Independence Day, Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil of the Syro-Malabar Church expressed deep concern over the ongoing persecution of Christians in parts of the country. While the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to practice their religion freely, Christians continue to face discrimination and humiliation in the name of faith, he noted.
Mar Thattil emphasized the need for vigilance to ensure that religious differences do not inflict wounds on society. Protecting religious harmony, he said, is essential not only for the unity of communities but also for preserving the nation’s integrity.
Reflecting on the coincidence of celebrating Independence Day alongside the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, he highlighted the spiritual significance of the day. The Assumption, one of the four core truths of the Catholic faith, symbolizes the Mother of God being taken body and soul into heaven.
“May the Blessed Virgin Mary guide us toward spiritual freedom, inspire our journey to heaven, and motivate us to lead others on the path of faith,” Mar Thattil said, urging believers to uphold both faith and harmony in society.