First Indian Christian Day on July 3
For several years, July 3 has been a significant day for the Christians of India. It is the Feast of St Thomas the Apostle - one of the twelve disciples of Jesus. He came to India after the Resurrection of Jesus, around 52 AD. It is historically accepted that St Thomas was martyred near Chennai in 72AD.
Jul 03, 2021
NEW DELHI: For several years, July 3 has been a significant day for the Christians of India. It is the Feast of St Thomas the Apostle - one of the twelve disciples of Jesus. He came to India after the Resurrection of Jesus, around 52 AD. It is historically accepted that St Thomas was martyred near Chennai in 72AD.
This year has added significance: for the first time, Christians from all Churches in India (and also Indian Christians who live in other parts of the world) will come together to celebrate ‘Indian Christian Day’ (Yeshu Bhakti Divas). A Declaration prepared by a small group of initiators of the Day (representing various Churches) states:
“This declaration of July 3, 2021 as Indian Christian Day (Yeshu Bhakti Divas) as an annual day of remembrance, is for followers of the Lord Jesus Christ of Indian origin to celebrate the person and message of JESUS CHRIST which was brought to India in 52 AD by one of His twelve disciples, St Thomas the Apostle.
“This day, historically observed as St Thomas Day commemorates the martyrdom of the Apostle in 72AD near Chennai. In marking it in 2021 and every year henceforth, we as followers of the Lord Jesus also preserve our identity within the Indian cultural heritage, while uniting with all who wish to celebrate, irrespective of language, custom, creed, region or religion.
“The celebration of Indian Christian Day (Yeshu Bhakti Divas) on July 3, 2021, launched the Decade of Celebration (2021- 2030) to honour the 2000th anniversary of the earthly ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ whose teaching and life principles have helped to shape and transform India and the world.” ––Indian Currents
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