Many well-off Hindus chose to study in Catholic missionary schools and colleges simply because the discipline is of a high standard, the upbringing is excellent, the all-round development is well taken care of, and the quality of teaching is better than in many other schools. APJ Abdul Kalam studied at St Joseph’s College in Tiruchirappalli, while Shashi Tharoor studied at missionary institutions, as have many other politicians and public figures. Besides education, Catholic missionaries have also carried out significant social work. The late Fr Stan Swamy worked to support the poorest sections of society by providing financial assistance and moral support. Mother Teresa cared for orphans, destitute people and the dying without discrimination on the basis of religion.
Catholic missionaries have also established hospitals to provide healthcare to poorer sections of society, regardless of their background. They have made significant contributions to education and healthcare without seeking to impose their faith on others. There may be isolated cases of allegations of forced conversion, but these should not be used to malign the entire Christian community. Catholic missionaries have generally respected the faiths of other communities and worked alongside people of different religions, contributing to communal harmony. They have helped reduce suffering and improve the lives of many people across the country. Many young people received a good education in missionary schools and went on to become successful and respected personalities.
Despite these contributions, some people continue to accuse Catholic missionaries of forced conversions. Such allegations should be examined carefully and based on facts rather than used to target an entire community. If people from other religions willingly choose to embrace Christianity, they themselves are best placed to explain their decision. Those concerned about people leaving their religion should perhaps reflect on why some people feel drawn towards another faith. Christianity places great emphasis on helping the poor and the downtrodden. This spirit of service and compassion may be one reason why some people are attracted to the faith. I am not a very pious person and do not particularly like too many rituals. But, given a choice, I would not choose any other religion over Christianity. I value the fact that its teachings place great emphasis on love, compassion and respect for fellow human beings. The principle, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”, is one that I deeply value.
Diomedes Romano Pereira, Corlim
