Under the leadership of the new Bishop of Calcutta a ‘Easter Rally 2009’ was organised by the ‘United Christians of Calcutta’ on Easter Day at 5 p.m. on the St. James’ School grounds.
Four processions moved at 3.30 p.m. from four prominent Christian locations in the city (Bishop’s College, Thoburn Methodist Church, St.Georges’ Church and Holy Trinity Church). Each procession with more than 750 people marched through the main thoroughfares of the city with placards and banners, singing and praising with musical instruments, proclaiming the risen Lord Jesus Christ. It was wonderful to see both young & old, men & women and even children participate so enthusiastically. With logistic support from our very own marshals and the Kolkata Law Enforcement Authorities the movement was controlled and both the procession and vehicular traffic moved smoothly. These four processions culminated at St. James’ School grounds, where arrangements were made for the public meeting.
The public meetings began with praise and worship led by the young people of the Assembly of God Church together with youth from other churches. The United Churches Bengali choir sang some meaningful Easter hymns and the United Churches English Choir led by the Choir Master and Organist of St. James’ Church presented wonderful Easter Music in song.
Sister Soma, from the Missionaries of Charity in Orissa, shared with deep conviction the challenges they have faced during the recent communal disturbances in their state. This was followed by inspiring and challenging Easter messages were brought in Hindi by Rev. Fr. Sunil Rozario, Chief Editor ‘The Herald’ and member of the Catholic Diocesan Council, in Bengali by the Rt. Revd. D C Gorai, retired Bishop of Calcutta and ex-moderator of the CNI, and in English by Rev. Dr. Ivan Satyavrata, Chairman and Senior Pastor and of the Assembly of God Churches Kolkata.
The Rt. Revd. Ashoke Biswas, Bishop of Calcutta, , in his vote of thanks appreciated all the effort that had gone into making this Easter Rally 2009 such a wonderful event. He especially thanked the Church leaders of the city for all their cooperation and support. There were more the 3500 people gathered together to praise, worship and above all witness to “The Risen Saviour!” An event which united all the churches in Calcutta, breaking all barriers and uniting together for just one reason – He is Risen!