India News

By Felix Anthony

Namphai, Nov 24, 2021 : Bishop George Pallipparambil of Miao Diocese blessed a roadside grotto and dedicated it to the Year of the Family at Nampahi Bazar in Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh.

“This grotto and the images we see here are works of human hands to remind us of the presence of God in our midst and also of the importance of family”, said Bishop George unveiling the images of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph.

The prayer point was blessed at the entrance of Namaphai II market area, a small township located some seven kilometres away from Miao, the gateway to Namdapha National Park and Tiger Project.

Highlighting the importance of family, Bishop George said, “We are living at a time when family values have lost their importance. The invasion of the internet and mobile phones have eroded the sanctity of marriage. As we pass through this way, this grotto at this junction will work as a reminder for all us to remember our families and go back to the families safe and sound.”

Shopkeepers from the market area and Christian faithful from nearby villages participated and witnessed the blessing and dedication.
In the context of religious polarisation in the country, this prayer point becomes a symbol of inter-religious unity. The land for the construction was provided by Bijoy Taidong, a faithful from Baptist Church and the lighting and electricity is supported by Bigu Saikia, a Hindu brother, who owns a grocery shop in the market.

“With this beautiful landmark in the market, people will remember the presence of God and do honest business. The light from the grotto will dispel the darkness around”, said Taidong at the blessing.

The religious communities and people gathered for the event expressed happiness over their participation in the Year of the Family initiative of the Holy Father with the help of this grotto in this remote corner of the country.