Indian Archbishop Sound Alarm on Poorest Amongst World's Poor

MUMBAI, India – As the Church marked the World Day of the Poor, Arch Bishop Vincent Maini of Ranchi sounded a stark warning to the plight of millions living in poverty-stricken regions amidst India's riches.

Addressing an audience, Bishop Maini highlighted that in one area rich in minerals and forests, citizens suffer from severe economic hardship. Despite Jharkhand being the State of minerals-rich and having vast forest areas, "a good majority of people living in the area are poor," he stated during his address on November 17.

Jharkhand is home to roughly 28 million Christians of Tribal communities, many of whom live under the ancient caste system. These groups often rely upon Christianity for their fight against social inequality and social oppression.

Speaking at an event marking World Day of Poor, Bishop Maini emphasized that "the poor in every sense of the word" must be focused on by the Church. Citing Sirach 21:5 which says 'The prayer of the poor will rise up to God,' he urged spiritual care for those who lack knowledge or have lost faith.

This years' World Day theme, "Prayer of the Poor Reaches Heaven," comes after a year that called upon prayer as we reach out to support others. The first world day in 2017 aimed in drawing attention towards the poverty in many regions around the world, it’s been observed by Christians for more than 28 years.

"The world Day aims at highlighting their voices & prayers and encouraging all believers - clergy and laity alike – to lift up the plight of Poor," Bishop Maini expressed, calling them "concerned" with poor lives.

The Archbishop mentioned Tribals in his state Chotanagpur which need to awaken internally every step of the way.