13 hours ago
Catholic priest's presence at RSS event in Pala raises eyebrows
At a time when the Catholic Church in Kerala has been voicing concern over attacks on Christians in central and northern States of India, the participation of a priest from the Pala diocese of the Syro-Malabar Church at an event of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has raised a few eyebrows.
Father George Nellikunnu Cherivu Purayidom, director of Care Homes project under the Pala diocese and Deepika Friends Club, presided over Shankholi 2025, a student summit jointly organised by the Poonjar, Meenachil and Ramapuram units of the RSS on August 15.
Addressing the gathering, Father Purayidom said that it was the generation inspired by India's spiritual heritage and the freedom struggle that went on to shape modern India. Today's younger generation must strive to project the nation's glory on the world stage, making effective use of organisation and technology.
The keynote address at the summit was delivered by Desheeya Adhyapaka Parishat State vice-president Jigi Mash.
However, the event has already raised a few eyebrows within the Catholic Church, especially in the wake of recent attacks on nuns and priests from Kerala in Chhattisgarh and Odisha, allegedly by Sangh Parivar activists. 'This only reflects how sections of the Catholic clergy remain insensitive to the sufferings of their fellow believers in BJP-ruled states,' observed another priest, reacting to the priest's presence. The instance has also triggered debates on social media and within the Catholic community.
When contacted, Fr. Purayidom clarified that he had attended the event with the knowledge of Pala Bishop Joseph Kallarangatt. 'I decided to attend since the programme was related to Independence Day. I went there on the organisers' invitation and delivered a speech on the theme of the event. There is no need to misconstrue this in any other way,' he explained.
Commenting on the issue, Fr. Jhoseph Thadathil, Vicar General of the diocese, maintained that the priest must have attended the event in his personal capacity. 'The diocese, as a matter of principle, does not interfere in the affairs of any political organisation, nor does it extend support to any. The diocese has nothing to do with the event, even if the said priest attended it,' he clarified.
