SPARKS OF ‘EASTER HOPE’ IN THE LAND OF THE DAWN-LIT MOUNTAINS | KAIROS GLOBAL | APRIL 2024

Author: Rev. Benny Varghese Edathattel

Intro: His Excellency, The Most Rev. Benny Varghese Edathattel writes about Christianity in India’s north-eastern state, Arunachal Pradesh. 

INTRODUCTION

Epochs of history have lightly tread the undulating terrains of Arunachal Pradesh, fondly accredited as ‘The Land of the Dawn-Lit Mountains.’ Lavishly seamed with a tapestry of cultures, the populous weave of this landscape involves approximately 1.4 million individuals. Their vibrant footfalls echo across time, leaving indelible impressions upon the haunting echoes of about 26 major tribes and over 110 sub-tribes.

The stories of this region are imbued with the texture of animistic and shamanic faiths, and tempered with Buddhism's quiet strength marking their indigenous beliefs. Yet, in recent decades, the rhythm has subtly shifted towards a different cadence: Christianity. This transition, exercised delicately on the precipice of respect for primordial beliefs and the light of progress, finds an able companion in the concept of 'Easter Hope'. This emblematic pivot of the transition dignifies the transformative spiritual journey of the local community. To fathom the fabric of Arunachal Pradesh's socio-cultural tapestry, understanding Easter Hope's growing influence and significance is vital.

EASTER HOPE

Christianity finds its genesis in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, celebrated worldwide as Easter. At its core, Easter is a celebration of life, evidenced in the eternal triumph of Christ’s resurrection over sin and death. This triumvirate of joy, peace, and the certainty of eternal life binds the Christian faith together telegraphing a potent message of hope and renewal to a world often torn at the seams by despair and death.

The proclamation, ‘Jesus Christ has risen!’ echoes through the silence of pain, transcending geographical borders to resonate with suffering souls. It is a conduit for every forlorn heart to tap into a core of resilience. Often, this potent message impresses a heartening vigour into faith’s fabric, encouraging global solidarity revolving around Christianity and the essence of the Church’s mission. It works as a beacon for those adrift in the storm, guiding them to the fold of Easter Hope. This concept envisions more than mere optimism, eclipsing it with a deep-seated belief in the victory of love over evil, transforming raw suffering into an opportunity for renewal and redemption. The enduring reminders of Christ's sacrifice in the form of eternal scars have sustained many. Seen as symbols by the Christian world, they are testament to his care and healing for humanity's collective wounds. 

THE EMERGE OF CHRISTIAN FAITH IN ARUNACHAL PRADESH

The evolution of Christianity in Arunachal Pradesh began in the early ’60s. Initially embarked upon by Fr L Cerato SDB, he welcomed Apatani students into his parish school in North Lakhimpur. After obtaining parental permission, these students were baptised into the Christian faith. Upon graduation, they returned home carrying a spark lit by their new-found faith and set about carefully stoking the fires of Christianity within their villages. Gradually, fire by fire, home by home, the flame illuminated the twilight of transition.

Fast forward to when Bishop Joseph Mittathany consolidated an initial breakthrough in the missionary efforts. In 1977, he established the Parish of Harmuti, providing a foothold for Christian's influence near the threshold to Itanagar, the state's capital. On December 7, 2005, the Diocese of Itanagar was established through the declaration by Pope Benedict XVI. Its impact was palpably felt with the rapid spread of Christianity across the region. Facilitated by the establishment of various institutions and parishes, it was further honed by the combined dedication of both classes of missionaries (clerical and lay). The lay faithful played a pivotal role in the flourishing of Christianity in Arunachal Pradesh. Many became politicians who unabashedly advocated for increased religious freedom, further legitimating Christianity within the growing community.

LAY EVANGELISATION: THE BRINGERS OF FAITH AND HOPE

Far from being mere observers or recipients of faith, the lay evangelist fostered a unique partnership with the Church in carrying forward the Christian mission. Galvanised by their faith, they made inroads into areas that were so far untouched by clerical evangelisation. This journey took them into the heartland of everyday life – families, social circles, workplaces, and schools, bringing with them the good news of Christ's love and hope. Their witness, grounded in their everyday struggles and victories, made their message more personal, relatable, and readily accepted.

Their roles extended beyond increasing the number of believers. They became catalysts in the spiritual rejuvenation of communities by awakening their consciousness to the living testimonials of Christ's love and hope in their lives. They revitalised the ethos of Christianity by breathing life into every word and action with the same passion that Christ had displayed in his life. They made Christianity more than an ideology or a set of rules, turning it into a lived experience. A faith that was alive, vibrant, and widely applicable, one that was integrated into their everyday lives and gave them a new perspective and meaning.

The quiet revolution happening in Arunachal Pradesh was the fulfilment of the essential Christian mission: reaching out to neighbours and communities, living the faith, and sharing the same with those around them. The laity's evangelisation efforts extended the spiritual reach of the Church beyond its physical boundaries and constrictions. Their combined efforts played a pivotal role in expanding the Christian fold and illuminating new corners of Arunachal Pradesh with Christ's light.

THE ROLE OF EASTER HOPE IN ARUNACHAL'S SPIRITUAL JOURNEY

Easter is more than just a tradition or a religious observance. In Arunachal Pradesh, the celebration of Easter has taken a deeper significance, proving to be a cornerstone of the region's spiritual identity. The message of Easter strikes an intimate chord among the believers in the region: the promise of rebirth, renewal, the victory of Christ over death, a beacon of hope in times of turmoil.

The Easter narrative is powerfully symbolic. The crucifixion, which embodies Christ's suffering, is followed by the resurrection, a symbol of his victory over darkness and despair. This symbolism lands with resounding echoes in the hearts of Arunachal's Christian community, encouraging resilience and tenacity in the face of trials, imbuing them with unwavering hope and invincible faith.

In tandem with Arunachal's distinct culture, Easter hope fosters principles of inclusivity, forgiveness, reconciliation – values that are at the core of Christianity. These principles celebrate the state's inherent cultural diversity by integrating it into the broader narrative of spiritual unity. The essence of Easter hope inspires a spirit of empathy and love among the people, transcending social, ethnic, and religious boundaries to foster a harmonious coexistence.

CHALLENGES AND TRIUMPHS: THE TRANSITION TO CHRISTIAN FAITH IN ARUNACHAL PRADESH

The transition to Christianity in Arunachal Pradesh is a journey painted with shades of both trials and triumphs. As a state with strong tribal affiliations, individuals often encounter resistance from their communities when they shift from traditional belief systems to Christianity.

Aparna’s conversion to Christianity, reflecting on her individual journey with faith, echoed the experiences of many in Arunachal Pradesh. She recalled the initial resistance from her tribe and the persistent efforts of missionaries in her village. Even with the fear of discriminatory side-lining and alienation looming over her, the pull of a faith that offered hope and a message of universal love was too strong. The transition brought challenges, but every step taken and every hurdle overcome marked a personal victory for Aparna and many others – value of their newfound faith far outweighed the cost of their transition.

Moreover, Aparna asserts that the Christian faith proved to be a catalyst for social change in her village, promoting progressive ideas and encouraging the pursuit of education and community development initiatives. Consequently, the transition, despite its challenges, initiated a wave of transformation that significantly improved the socio-economic landscape of regions across Arunachal Pradesh.

UNLEASHING POTENTIAL: EASTER HOPE'S IMPACT ON ARUNACHAL'S FUTURE DEVELOPMENT

As Arunachal Pradesh progressively advances into the future, the values embodied in Easter Hope might serve as a beacon illuminating the path to growth and development. The spirit of a rebirth, a new beginning, forms the core of the region's development narrative, influencing its socio-economic strategies and demographic policies.

Easter hope will encourage resilience, fostering optimism and strength that can drive individuals to scale heights, unlock unexplored potential, and inspire community-driven socio-economic growth. The ethos of unity and mutual assistance promoted by Easter hope can fuel collaborative efforts, laying a foundational stone for a cohesively prosperous society.

Easter hope carries within it a powerful belief in life’s potential, encouraging a forward-looking and ambitious perspective among the people. It is an enduring promise of positive transformation, reminding them to rise above their present challenges and envision a prosperous future. As the growing Christian population of Arunachal Pradesh incorporates these values of Easter hope into their personal lives and community engagements, a catalytic ripple effect is inevitable.

CONCLUSION: ENVISIONING A FUTURE ILLUMINATED BY EASTER HOPE

A future guided by Easter Hope moves beyond the geographical frontiers of Arunachal Pradesh, reaching out to the rest of the world. Easter Hope, with its concepts of resurrection, renewal and triumph over adversity, provides a transformative perspective on interpreting challenges and solutions, thereby shaping comprehensive future strategies.

Easter Hope champions resilience, enabling societies to withstand adversities and paving a way for a future that promises renewal and progress. It fosters unity, encouraging individuals and nations to set aside discord and strive for global welfare. The potent belief in life’s potential painted by Easter Hope is universally applicable, driving communities towards growth and development.

In essence, Easter Hope, with its universal ethos of resilience, unity, and incessant optimism, guides individuals, communities, and nations alike through the labyrinth of challenges towards a prosperous shared future. It stands as an enduring reminder of our collective will to effect positive change and to find innovative solutions, regardless of the complexities and magnitude of the problems faced. Whether it is in the untouched wilderness of Arunachal Pradesh or the bustling metropolitan cities worldwide, Easter Hope can illuminate the path to a prosperous, unified, resilient future for everyone.

His Excellency, The Most Rev. Benny Varghese Edathattel is the second Bishop of Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh in north-east India.