Couples for Christ Leader Draws Inspiration from Kandhamal Catholics' Faith

The resilience of Catholics in Kandhamal, eastern India's Odisha state, continues to inspire Christians around the world, according to the South Asia coordinator of Couples for Christ (CFC), who praised the community's steadfast witness nearly two decades after the region's anti-Christian violence.

Jun A. Clarito, a Philippine-born leader now based in Canada and serving as South Asia coordinator of Couples for Christ, visited Kandhamal on July 21 with his wife, Malou Clarito. They were accompanied by India's CFC country head, Basil Rajendra Toppo, and Suchita Bara.

The delegation met about 50 couples at Our Lady of Charity Parish in Raikia, in the Archdiocese of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar, where they shared their faith journeys and reflected on the movement's mission of strengthening Christian family life.

"I admire the faithful of Kandhamal for the firm faith in Christ they showed during the anti-Christian violence of 2008," Clarito said. "They have become models for Christians in today's world who continue to face persecution and threats to their lives."

Kandhamal witnessed one of the worst outbreaks of anti-Christian violence in India's recent history in 2008, when dozens of Christians were killed, churches and homes were destroyed, and thousands of people were displaced.

Clarito encouraged local Catholics to remain faithful to the Gospel and continue witnessing to Christ.

"The people have a great challenge to keep burning the light of faith they have received from the Lord," he said. "They also have a special devotion to Mother Mary."

Addressing the gathering, Clarito highlighted the movement's global theme for 2026, "In the One We Are One," calling members to foster unity, fraternity, and Christian brotherhood.

"We belong to one family in Couples for Christ," he said. "To remain connected with the Lord, we must pray, read Sacred Scripture, and receive Holy Communion."

Basil Rajendra Toppo said the visit strengthened the Indian community and reflected the international movement's care and solidarity.

"The visit of un and Malou brings great joy, encouragement, and love to our community in India," he said.

For members, the movement has brought profound personal transformation.

"After becoming a member of Couples for Christ, I developed a deeper relationship with God through regular prayer, Bible study, and the sacraments," said Anusha Digal of Our Lady of Charity Parish.

"I have learned Christian values, communication, forgiveness, and mutual love. My life has changed from one filled with anger to one of peace, from prayerless to prayerful, and from faithless to faithful."

Founded in Manila, Philippines, in 1981, Couples for Christ is an international Catholic lay movement dedicated to renewing Christian family life through evangelization, faith formation, and service. Today, it operates in more than 100 countries and includes ministries for children, youth, singles, and families.

The movement has around 1,000 members in India and continues to work closely with the Catholic Church in promoting family values, evangelization, and outreach to the poor.