One hundred delegates from six dioceses in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have attended a regional missionary conference. During the event, hosted by Dornakal Diocese, the delegates discussed how “to spread and propagate the unconditional love and compassion of Christ through our deeds and words to all,” the Church of South India’s Mission and Evangelism Director, Maxcin John, said. “We are never ever for any religious fundamentalism or extremism. On the other hand, we should stand together for religious harmony, peace, justice and reconciliation in our living context”.

The event took place earlier this month at the Epiphany Cathedral in Dornakal. It included Bible study, lectures and seminars and cultural performances. One speaker, Victor Paul, called for a “paradigm shift” from “mission to the margin towards mission from the margin”. He argued that people are not the “object” of mission but the “subject” of it.

CSI’s Deputy Moderator and Bishop in Dornakal, Dr Vadapally Prasada Rao, said that the mission of the Church must be an expression of Christ’s love and compassion to all. He said that none of the delegates should return to their respective dioceses “until they are equipped and rejuvenated for the mission towards building Christ communities.”

The regional conference “was an opportunity for the rejuvenation and refresh towards doing the mission to all,” Maxcin John said. “All delegates were inspired to participate in doing mission more enthusiastically for the well-being of all people.”