The Voice of the suffering in Asia

A police officer who was working as a security guard at a Catholic school for girls in north-eastern Pakistan opened fire on a group of teachers and students, killing two young girls.

“There is no anti-conversion law in West Bengal yet, said Rettig, adding “there is greater religious freedom there, compared to other parts of the country.”

The bishop points out the irony of radical Hindus accusing missionaries of converting people in exchange for food or money, when they do not seem to have a problem with the Church’s massive social projects.

There are laws against child marriages and forced marriages, but they are not implemented: "One reason is that all this happens mainly to Christians and Hindus."

Hundreds of people fled for their lives after an Islamist mob running into thousands went on the rampage, attacking Christian homes and places of worship, including the local St Joseph’s Catholic Church.

“I visit communities that can only be reached by foot, by boat or by canoe,” said Father Prado. Now, thanks to his new vehicle, he can reach many more people.