- 17 June, 2026
New Delhi, June 17, 2026: The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) has called for a nationwide observance of a National Day of Prayer on June 28, urging Catholics across the country to pray for the nation, democratic freedoms, and the Church’s mission of service amid growing concerns over the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill (FCRA) 2026.
In a circular addressed to bishops, priests, religious, and lay faithful, Cardinal Antony Poola, President of the CBCI, expressed concern about the possible implications of the proposed legislation, which is expected to be taken up during Parliament’s forthcoming Monsoon Session.
The Cardinal noted that the proposed amendments could have significant consequences for the charitable, educational, healthcare, and social service ministries carried out by Churches and Christian institutions throughout India. He emphasized that these ministries have long served the nation, particularly the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable, as a concrete expression of the Gospel values of love, justice, and compassion.
Describing the initiative as both a spiritual and democratic response, Cardinal Poola invited the faithful to unite in prayer and solidarity with other Christian denominations. He encouraged dioceses, parishes, religious communities, and institutions to organize special prayers during the celebration of the Holy Eucharist on June 28, offering intentions for the nation, public leaders, and the freedom of the Church to continue its service mission.
The CBCI also recommended Eucharistic Adoration, Rosary devotions, prayer services, and voluntary fasting as part of the observance. In an ecumenical spirit, local Churches have been encouraged to collaborate with other Christian communities in organizing joint prayer gatherings.
“Prayer unites us in faith, strengthens us in hope, and renews our commitment to continue the mission entrusted to us by Christ in the service of all people,” Cardinal Poola wrote, quoting St. Paul’s exhortation from Philippians: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Alongside the prayer initiative, the CBCI has called for a peaceful and democratic expression of concern regarding the proposed legislation. Dioceses, parishes, educational institutions, and Christian organizations have been encouraged to prepare memoranda, signed by the faithful and people of goodwill, outlining their concerns about the Bill and its potential impact on the Church’s ministries. These memoranda may be submitted to the Central Government through local Members of Parliament and Members of Legislative Assemblies, who may also be invited to participate in prayer gatherings.
The circular underscores the Church’s commitment to peace, justice, harmony, and the common good, while encouraging Catholics to engage responsibly as citizens within India’s democratic framework.
Cardinal Poola further directed that the circular be translated into regional languages wherever necessary and read in all churches and Mass centres on June 21 to ensure broad participation in the National Day of Prayer.
Entrusting the nation and the Church in India to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of India, the CBCI President called upon the faithful to participate wholeheartedly in the observance, describing it as a moment of prayerful unity and discernment for the future of the Church’s service mission in the country.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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