Hyderabad: Prince Antony, Metropolitan Archbishop of Shamshabad, has issued a strong and clear response condemning the disruption of a Christmas prayer service at a church in Ghaziabad, calling it a serious breach of law and order and an attack on India’s secular and democratic values.
In his statement, the Metropolitan Archbishop of the Archeparchy of Shamshabad referred to a video that went viral during the Christmas season, showing a group of people led by a man dressed like a sadhu entering a church while prayers were in progress. The group is seen intimidating the pastor, shouting slogans, and making derogatory remarks against Jesus Christ and Mother Mary, causing fear and disturbance among the worshippers.
Describing the incident as shocking and unacceptable, Archbishop Prince Antony said that no individual or group has the authority to enter a place of worship and interrupt a peaceful prayer service. He questioned who had given the intruders the power to interfere in the internal affairs of the church or to intimidate a pastor conducting prayers. He stressed that if anyone suspects unlawful activity, the proper course is to approach the courts or the police, not to take the law into their own hands.
The Metropolitan Archbishop also rejected attempts to question the patriotism of Indian Christians. He said Christians in India are Indians by birth and conviction and do not need lessons on nationalism from anyone. Recalling the ancient roots of Christianity in India, he noted that the faith has existed in the country since the early centuries, long before colonial rule, and has become an integral part of Indian culture and history.
Referring to online claims about the identity and background of the man leading the disruption, Archbishop Prince Antony raised questions about the moral authority of someone who himself is reported to have converted, yet challenges the constitutional right of others to freely practice and choose their faith. He affirmed that freedom of religion is guaranteed by the Constitution and that people attending the prayer service were doing so of their own free will.
The Metropolitan Archbishop said the calm and composed response of the pastor during the confrontation reflected the true spirit of the Christian message. Despite provocation and intimidation, the pastor remained peaceful and dignified, offering a silent but powerful witness to faith rooted in love and non violence.
Concluding his message, Archbishop Prince Antony said the Christian community will continue to live and practice its faith peacefully in India, without hatred or retaliation. He expressed hope that those responsible for such acts would reflect on their actions and discover the peace that comes from mutual respect and understanding.