Amravati Bishop Calls Children to Courageous Faith Amid Attacks on Christians

Rajura, Dec 27, 2025: Calling the faithful to courage and lifelong commitment to Christ amid persistent threats and attacks on Christians, Bishop Malcolm Sequeira of Amravati presided over the First Holy Communion of 17 children at Rajura Mission Station on December 26, highlighting a community whose faith has remained steadfast despite adversity.

Held on the Feast of St. Stephen, the Church’s first martyr, the celebration assumed deeper significance in Rajura, an area where the Catholic faithful have endured sustained challenges from communal elements, yet continue to practice their faith openly.

In his homily, Bishop Sequeira reminded the children that the First Holy Communion marked the beginning of a lifelong relationship with Jesus rather than a one-day event. Drawing inspiration from St. Stephen, the first martyr of the Church, he encouraged them to remain strong in faith, truthful in life, and courageous in witnessing Christ, even in the face of difficulties.

He urged them to participate regularly in the Holy Eucharist, prayer, and acts of love, affirming that Jesus received in the Eucharist would always give them strength.

As part of his pastoral visit, the Bishop also visited the families of the children, sharing in their joy and offering encouragement.

Rajura Mission Station comprises around 30 Catholic families from the Pavra Tribe, who migrated from the Diocese of Khandwa in the 1980s. The Mission was formally established in 1992 and functions as part of St. Xavier’s Church, Shegaon.

Despite persistent challenges, including threats and armed attacks, the community is known for its firm and unwavering faith. That perseverance has yielded tangible spiritual fruits. Rajura Mission Station has given two priests, five seminarians, and two religious sisters, reflecting a vocation culture rooted in sacrifice, perseverance, and trust in God.

The celebration drew the involvement of the parish clergy and religious, with the Parish Priest of St. Xavier’s Church, Shegaon, Fr. Benjamin Horo, the priest in charge of Rajura Mission Station, Fr. Pradeep Toppo, the St. Ann’s Sisters at Rajura, the local lay catechist, and members of the wider Catholic community contributing to the preparations and liturgy.

By Nelson Alphonso

Amravati Diocese