“Catholic Church Doesn’t Convert but Imparts Education,” Says Indian Federal Minister

At the Solemn Installation Ceremony of the First Metropolitan Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Faridabad, held at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi, on Nov 3, Federal Minister Kiren Rijiju praised the Catholic Church for its significant role in education and social development, saying that the Church “does not convert people but spreads knowledge.”

The ceremony marked the installation of Archbishop Kuriakose Bharanikulangara as the first Archbishop of the newly elevated Archdiocese of Faridabad of the Syro-Malabar Church.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Union Minister of State George Kurien, a representative of the Vatican, K. V. Thomas, Special Representative of the Kerala Government in Delhi, Beatitude Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil, Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, Archbishop Anil Joseph Thomas Couto, State Minister Roshi Augustine (Government of Kerala), and other distinguished guests.

Minister Rijiju’s remarks come amid ongoing dialogue between the government and Christian communities. His statement highlighted appreciation for the Church’s long-standing contribution to education, healthcare, and social upliftment across India.

Observers noted that relations had recently been tested following the arrest of two nuns in Chhattisgarh on allegations of religious conversion. However, the Minister’s comments reflected a renewed effort toward mutual understanding and respect between faith communities and the state.

The elevation of the Diocese of Faridabad to an Archdiocese marks a milestone in the Church’s growth and vitality, reaffirming faith, unity, and devotion among the Syro-Malabar Catholic community in northern India.