Guwahati (AsiaNews) – China is “one of the emerging powers of the world, economically, politically and in most spheres. If the peoples of the world have a good relationship with China, a new reign of cooperation will arise with peace, harmony and a respect among peoples in the Asian region.  So we shall pray for China in every Mass that will be celebrated in India. The Holy Father was prophetic in dedicating this day as World Day of Prayer for China,” said Mgr Thomas Menamparampil, archbishop of Guwahati and chairman of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences as he spoke to AsiaNews.

Today we shall “be united in prayer with the Holy Father, Benedict XVI, and the Universal Church. Peaceful coexistence will emerge from this new enhanced relationship with China, not only for Christians but also for the entire world.  So we need to support China in these crucial times. For this reason today at every service there will be prayers for China. Indeed India has historic ties with China, which is even more reason to pray for China.

The fact the feast of Mary, Help of Christians, was chosen as the Day of Prayer “is of particular significance because the Virgin has been there throughout history when the Church was in difficulty. We must count on Mary not only for supporting us but also as the guiding force in our mission.”

Lastly Mgr Menamparampil noted that he has prayed for China since his ‘seminary days.”

“I always felt that it was necessary to pray for one of the most populated countries in the world with an ancient and important history. The Gospel can only enrich that reality. Through dialogue, announcing the Christian message can give the Chinese people the gift of hope.”