Part of the last session was a time for feedback from the participants. One of the women pastors present said that while the material was all excellent and helpful, she would not be able to use it, because she could not be placed as a pastor. (The Andhra churches have ordained women since 1998, but it is taking (too) long for women to be accepted.) Her comments sparked vigorous objection from some of the male pastors present, and a loud and vigorous conversation/argument followed. Progress is being made, but clearly not fast enough. Most of the conversation was in Telegu, but it was not hard to figure out what was being said. It was a privilege to know that we visitors were trusted enough, and had made a safe enough atmosphere for the conversation to happen.
After the conference ended, Olav, Eivend, Raja (our host) and Veronica (a woman pastor from Hyderabad) crammed into a taxi (and I mean CRAMMED- the Norwegians and I shared the back seat, and my hips still hurt!) and we drove to the Cathedral Church of St. Thomas- the site of the Apostle Thomas’ tomb. Tradition says he was martyred here in 72 CE. His body was taken to Rome in the mid 1500’s by the Portuguese, but the tomb remains, and a large church was built over it. I find it a fascinating and wonderful place, even after visiting before. Thomas traveled so far- perhaps the furthest of the twelve, all the way to India, sharing the Good News of Jesus, and here we were, walking where he likely walked, following the same Jesus he proclaimed!
We are off to Pondicherry tomorrow for our Tamil conference. These are “old stomping grounds” for me in India - the home territory of the Arcot Lutheran Church, where we sponsor so many children for LPGM, and not far from the church in Panruti, which we helped build. I am looking forward to seeing old friends and making new ones.
Know that you continue in my prayers; know that I covet yours!
Blessings, Chris