Cardinal Poola Anthony Inaugurates Christian Community Mediation Centre in Hyderabad

Hyderabad, 22 March, 2025 – Cardinal Poola Anthony expressed his profound gratitude and joy as he witnessed a significant step towards justice, peace, and harmony within the Christian community at the inauguration of the Christian Community Mediation Centre at St Alphonsus Church, Banjara Hills, on 21 March.

Speaking at the event, Cardinal Poola emphasised the Christian calling to be peacemakers, citing the words of Jesus: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9). He highlighted that the mediation centre—established with the support of the Honourable High Court of Telangana through the Telangana State Legal Services Authority—would serve as a beacon of reconciliation. The centre aims to resolve conflicts within the community with compassion, wisdom, and fairness.  

Encouraging community members in Banjara Hills to embrace the initiative, the Cardinal urged them to seek guidance at the centre when faced with disputes. “Certified personnel are available to assist you. Let this centre be a place of hope—where disputes turn into resolutions, anger gives way to understanding, and broken relationships find healing,” he said. He also acknowledged the contributions of retired IPS officer Aruna Bahuguna, who has taken a keen interest in supporting the centre alongside a dedicated team.  

Sri Ch. Panchakshari, Member Secretary, briefed the gathering on the centre’s aims, objectives, and functions, expressing hope that similar initiatives would be established to serve those in distress.  

Cardinal Poola concluded by invoking God’s blessings on the mediation centre, praying that it would stand as a testimony to the power of reconciliation and serve as a model of peace for society. “May the Lord bless this initiative, and may His peace reign among us all,” he proclaimed.

The inauguration marked a significant step towards fostering peace and reconciliation within the Christian community.

By Fr. Raju Alex 

TCBC deputy secretary, Hyderabad