It is shocking to note that the parish priest of Saligao church was assaulted by a resident of Pequen-Morod in Saligao who owns property adjoining the church where some renovation work was going on. It is learnt that there was an issue between the parish priest and the accused person over some matter. The accused person reportedly assaulted the parish priest with blows on his face, abused him with filthy language and threatened him with dire consequences over the issue. The accused person has since been arrested. It must be said that a physical attack on a religious leader is unacceptable and is a serious matter. The police need to show zero tolerance towards such acts.
In the churches, Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) needs to play an active role in resolving issues pertaining to property. If the parishioners feel there are such elements who have been verbally attacking the priest, then the matter should be quickly resolved before it takes an ugly turn. Parishioners of various churches in the state should see to it that such episodes do not take place in their respective parishes.
