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

Shillong, September 9, 2026: A new book documenting the contribution of Christians to social development and nation-building in Northeast India was released during the Northeast India Regional Pastoral Conference 2026, held from September 4 to 7.

Titled Northeast Christians’ Contribution to Nation Building, the volume was jointly released by Archbishop John Moolachira, Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh and Archbishop Linus Neli.

Published as a project of the North East Catholic Research Forum (NECRF), the book brings together research articles by 13 scholars representing different Christian denominations. It examines the role of Christian missionaries and institutions in transforming lives through pastoral and social initiatives across the region.

The volume documents contributions in areas including education, healthcare, literature, women and youth empowerment, leadership development and peace-building.

Introducing the book before an audience of bishops, priests, religious and lay leaders, John S. Shilshi, IPS (Retd), co-editor of the volume, said the research project was undertaken against the backdrop of allegations by the RSS and its affiliates that Christians were eroding the language, culture and traditions of indigenous communities.

Shilshi said the book sought to provide a documented account of the work of Christian missionaries, particularly the challenges they faced while serving communities in remote and difficult circumstances.

He said the book’s release was particularly appropriate in view of the theme of the pastoral conference, “Journeying with Indigenous People of God in the Synodal Church in Northeast India.”

The NECRF initiative received appreciation from participants at the conference, with the volume seen as an effort to bring together research-based accounts of Christian contributions to the region.

Drawing on the work of scholars from different Christian denominations, the book places Christian engagement in education, healthcare, social empowerment, leadership and peace-building within the wider narrative of nation-building in Northeast India.

To get the book CLICK HERE.

By Catholic Connect Reporter