Book on Northeast Christians’ Contribution to Nation-Building Released at Pastoral Conference

Shillong, September 9, 2026 — A new book highlighting the contribution of Christians to social development and nation-building in Northeast India has been released during the Northeast India Regional Pastoral Conference 2026. Titled Northeast Christians’ Contribution to Nation Building, the book was jointly released by Archbishop John Moolachira, Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh and Archbishop Linus Neli during the pastoral conference, which was held from September 4 to 7. The publication is a project of the North East Catholic Research Forum (NECRF). It brings together research articles written by 13 scholars from different Christian denominations and examines the historical and contemporary role of Christian missionaries and institutions in the development of communities across the region. The book highlights Christian contributions in several important areas, including education, healthcare, literature, women and youth empowerment, leadership development and peace-building. John S. Shilshi, IPS (Retd), one of the co-editors, introduced the book to bishops, priests, religious and lay leaders attending the conference. He explained that the research project was undertaken amid allegations from the RSS and its affiliates that Christians were negatively affecting the languages, cultures and traditions of Indigenous communities. According to Shilshi, the publication aims to provide a documented account of the work carried out by Christian missionaries and institutions, particularly their efforts to serve communities in remote and challenging parts of Northeast India. He also noted that the release of the book was especially relevant to the theme of the pastoral conference, “Journeying with Indigenous People of God in the Synodal Church in Northeast India.” The publication received appreciation from participants at the conference. Its contributors sought to bring together research-based perspectives from different Christian traditions and present a broader picture of Christian engagement with Indigenous communities. The book places Christian initiatives in education, healthcare, social empowerment, leadership development and peace-building within the larger story of nation-building in Northeast India. Through contributions from scholars belonging to different Christian denominations, the volume seeks to document the role of Christian communities and institutions in addressing social needs and supporting the development of people across the region. The release of the book adds to ongoing discussions within the Church about Indigenous identity, social development, cultural preservation and the role of Christians in Northeast India's future.