I had a meaningful experience at the Kuki Worship Centre in Byrathi, Bangalore, led by Rev. Lunmang Haokip. In response to the ethnic violence in Manipur, Rev. Haokip opened his church to shelter 300 internally displaced people from June 2023. It was during one of their Sunday noon gatherings that I, accompanied by some of our lay associates, went to meet the community. With utmost respect, they invited us to join in their fellowship and communion service. After the service, we entered into conversation about the refugee crisis and their adaptation to life in Bangalore. Rev. Haokip, with remarkable courtesy, shared insights into their situation, emphasizing, “Our people do not like to be known as migrants or refugees but as internally displaced since we are within India.” He went on to explain that many had found temporary placements in malls, shops, restaurants, hostels, and shelter homes. These individuals had experienced an abrupt loss of everything, rendering them in need of emotional and spiritual support more than material and financial assistance. As our conversation with Rev. Haokip and other Kuki community members deepened, a poignant message emerged: “The Catholic Bishop, clergy, and religious have done so much to reach out and they stood by us in these most critical times in Bangalore.” Their hope resonated strongly as they expressed a wish for such compassionate outreach to extend universally, stating, “We wish this happens everywhere wherever people suffer violence, hatred, and loss of dignity.” Recognizing the sense of acceptance they felt, they expressed their readiness to join hands with us and celebrate Christmas meaningfully, aiming to bring more joy to their displaced brethren. This encounter marked the beginning of more conversations that transcended boundaries, creating a sense of unity rooted in shared humanity and a commitment to mutual support.
Sr. Anitha Precilla Lobo, SCB
To read the entire article, click Subscribe
