MISSION TALK | KAIROS GLOBAL | JUNE 2024

Author: Dr Sunnichan V George

Embracing Faith and Community: A Mission Experience in Assam's Tribal Villages

In the realm of mission life, grasping the essence of the Catholic Church's purpose is synonymous with understanding its singular mission. This mission is unequivocally centred on heralding, both through action and proclamation, the glad tidings of Jesus Christ, the Divine Son. Specifically, it entails acknowledging his incarnation as a mortal, his teachings elucidating the route to genuine existence and liberation in God, and his enduring the rejection of individuals, not unlike ourselves, whose hearts recoiled from the piercing truth he illuminated.

The words of Pope St John Paul II in the encyclical, Redemptoris Missio, indeed echo with profound wisdom and insight into the essence of missionary work and its connection to the vitality of faith. Throughout the history of the Church, the missionary impulse has served as a vibrant expression of the living faith of believers.

Missionary endeavours reflect the dynamism of a faith that seeks to spread its message of love, hope, and salvation to all corners of the world. The willingness to reach out beyond one's own community, to encounter and embrace diverse cultures and peoples, is a testament to the enduring strength and relevance of the gospel message. It is to be remembered that all the baptised are called to mission. All Christians are given marching orders from Christ himself, Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). This could be fulfilled through one’s state of life and/or call. St Therese, once in Carmel, perceived her missionary vocation from a contemplative point of view. She writes, ‘I had declared at the feet of Jesus – Victim in the examination preceding my Profession, what I had come to Carmel for: I came to save souls and especially to pray for priests.’ However, the patron of missionaries – St Francis Xavier was called to become a missionary priest, and he obediently went to restore Christianity among the Portuguese settlers. He devoted his entire life to missions in Asia, and was the most prominent figure to propagate Christianity in India.

Conversely, a decline in missionary fervour can signal a crisis of faith—a turning inward, a stagnation, or a loss of the evangelical zeal that animates the Church. When missionary efforts wane, it may indicate a need for renewal, recommitment, and a deeper engagement with the core teachings of Christianity.

Pope John Paul II's words serve as a reminder of the vital role that missionary activity plays in the life of the Church, not only as a means of spreading the faith but also as a barometer of its spiritual health and vitality. They inspire believers to remain steadfast in their commitment to sharing the Good News with the world, embodying the spirit of love and service exemplified by Christ himself.

In September 2023, I embarked on a transformative mission experience to the tribal villages of Assam with 45 other people belonging to the ‘We Trust’ family of missionaries, who are serious in the Catholic faith and her role in the world. After two sessions of missionary training on weekends and much preparation through prayers, pilgrimages and acts of spiritual as well as corporal works of mercy, we set out on the journey to Dhimra in Assam. The lush green landscapes and vibrant culture of Assam provided the backdrop for an immersive journey that would forever leave an indelible mark on my heart.

Our journey began with a gathering in the parish, where we eagerly absorbed insights into the rich tapestry of culture that awaited us. We learned about the customs, traditions, and beliefs of the families we would soon encounter, laying the groundwork for meaningful interactions to come.

Embarking on a missionary journey is akin to stepping into a world of unknowns, where every encounter holds the promise of discovery and growth. My own missionary experience, set against the backdrop of a vibrant parish community, was a testament to the transformative power of faith and cultural exchange.

The next day, armed with newfound knowledge and anticipation, we set out to visit the families in their homes. Recognising the importance of communication in building bridges, we enlisted the help of a translator from within their own community. This simple yet crucial decision would prove instrumental in breaking down language barriers and fostering genuine connections.

As our mission team ventured into the rural heartlands, we were welcomed by breathtaking scenery and warm smiles from the local villagers. Despite the natural beauty surrounding them, it was evident that life in these remote communities was marked by economic hardship. Poverty cast its shadow over the villages, yet amidst the struggles, there was a palpable sense of resilience and strength.

As we entered each home, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality that transcended language. We sat with families, sharing stories and laughter, and delving into the depths of their backgrounds and faith lives. Through these conversations, we gained insights into their joys and struggles, their hopes and dreams.

The Catholic families we encountered stood out for their unwavering faith and sense of community. Despite facing adversity on a daily basis, they found solace and strength in their spiritual beliefs. Their homes, though humble, radiated with a sense of warmth and hospitality that was truly humbling.

Our days were spent immersed in the rhythms of village life, visiting families, and sharing in their joys and sorrows. Through these interactions, we gained a deeper understanding of the challenges they faced and the courage with which they confronted them. We prayed with them, sang and danced with them, and at times after witnessing their hard realities and suffering in every present moment, we also cried with them. 

One of the most powerful aspects of our mission was the opportunity to participate in the religious rituals and traditions of the community. We joined them in prayer and worship, experiencing first-hand the depth of their faith and devotion. It was a humbling reminder of the universal language of spirituality that transcends cultural boundaries.

The presence of the Salesian fathers, who had long been serving these communities, was instrumental in our mission. It was the Salesian missionaries, who first sowed the seeds of faith in the Northeast Indian states, all way back in 1922. Their dedication and compassion served as a guiding light, bridging the gap between cultures and fostering deeper connections. Through their guidance, we were able to navigate the intricacies of village life with respect and humility.

As our time in Assam drew to a close, we reflected on the profound impact of our mission experience. We had witnessed first-hand the power of faith to unite communities and provide hope in the face of adversity. The resilience and strength of the Catholic families we encountered served as a powerful testament to the transformative power of belief. The last three days were devoted to a retreat in their home parish, A little over a thousand people, whom we visited and shared the gospel, came for the spiritual feast. Many made their confessions after a long period and received Jesus in the Eucharist. Many were liberated from their bondages. Peace restored in the hearts of many. Some of them recalled that they were experiencing Jesus’ love for the first time in their lives.  

Leaving the tribal villages of Assam, we carried with us not only memories of breathtaking landscapes but also the enduring spirit of faith and community that had touched our hearts. Our mission experience had reaffirmed our commitment to serving others and inspired us to continue spreading love and compassion wherever our journey may lead.

But our mission was not merely about gathering information; it was about forging bonds of solidarity and companionship. We prayed with the families, offering words of encouragement and solace in times of need. Together, we sang hymns of praise, our voices merging in harmonious unity, bridging the gap between cultures and languages.

One of the most memorable aspects of our mission was the opportunity to participate in the cultural traditions of the families we visited. We danced alongside them, immersing ourselves in the rhythms of their music and movement. In these moments of shared celebration, we experienced the universal language of joy that transcends cultural boundaries.

Amidst the laughter and fellowship, we also shared in moments of quiet reflection and gratitude. Sitting around the table, we broke bread together, sharing meals that nourished not only our bodies but also our souls. In the simple act of eating together, we found communion and connection, a tangible expression of the bonds that unite us as members of the human family. 

Dr Sunnichan V George is professor of food technology at Amal Jyothi College of Engineering, Kanjirapally. He is married to Dr Mini Mathew and they have four children.