Kathmandu (AsiaNews) - A country that welcomes and respects Jesus "gains dignity and respect on the international stage because it shows respect for the values of democracy. Spirituality and religion are aspects that improve the national status," said Mgr Paul Simick, apostolic vicar to Nepal as he ended his address at an ecumenical celebration held in Kathmandu on Christmas Day.
Along with the prelate, the event saw the presence of representatives from government and civil society groups, as well as leaders of other Christian denominations and thousands of ordinary Nepalis, Christians and Hindus.
In his address, Mgr Simick noted the rising gap between rich and poor in Nepal and around the world. "Christ was born for everyone, and his mission was also to limit the differences among human beings, who are brothers," he said. "Likewise, we must reject violence, discrimination and terrorism around the world."
Speaking about the slaughter of students by Pakistani Taliban in Peshawar, the prelate added, "Things like this just should not happen."
"Do not be afraid to preach the Good News," said Rev Narayan Sharma, bishop of the Church of the Believers, in an appeal to all Nepali Christians. "Do not be afraid to reach out to every person with the teachings of the Bible. God is here with us. Those who feel close to the Christian message should not pull back out of fear; those who have the courage to change themselves can change the world."
Here the prelate was referring to the country's religious situation. After years of Hindu monarchy, Christians are still a small minority. Whilst conversions to Christianity are no longer banned, they are still looked upon with great suspicion by the majority of the population and by some political leaders.
In view of this, Nepali Prime Minister Sushil Koirala tried to downplay fears. "We assure you," he said in a congratulatory message to the Christian community, "that, in the new Constitution, the rights of Christians and other minorities will be protected."
"I always stand with Christians," said in a warm statement Parliamentary Speaker Subas Nemwang, who was present at the meeting. "I will do everything possible to promote and protect the followers of Christ in our country."
"May Jesus be born in every heart," said Damannath Dhungana, a former parliamentary speaker. "May he also rise in the minds of our leaders, providing them with the ability to give Nepal a new constitution soon."
Nepal is home to some 150,000 Christians, of which 8,000 are Catholics.
Before the fall of the monarchy (2006), Hinduism was the state religion and influenced the life of every citizen.
The proclamation of a secular state has led to religious freedom; however, minorities - especially Christians - are still subject to harassment and threats from the majority community.
Hindus are often involved in acts of discrimination, violence against women and marginalisation of the poor.
For their part, Hindus and sometimes even Buddhists allege that Christians, including Catholics, are involved in converting people by force or by offering them money.