Kerala Church Issues Urgent Call for Political Engagement Amid Population Decline
The Syro-Malabar Catholic Church in Kerala has issued a strong appeal to its members. Church leaders want the faithful to become more active in politics and public governance. This move comes as the community faces a significant decline in numbers across the state.
Church Circular Warns Against Reckless Overseas Migration
Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil released a circular that will be read in churches on January 18. He stated that shrinking community numbers have weakened their presence in public spaces. The circular specifically warned against thoughtless migration to foreign countries.
"Members of the Syro-Malabar Church should actively come to the arena of politics and public governance," the circular declared. It emphasized that reckless migration has pushed some families into serious financial difficulties.
2026 Declared as Community Empowerment Year
The Church has designated 2026 as a special year for community empowerment. This observance aims to strengthen youth and families within the community. Church leaders want to shift focus from job seeking to job creation.
"Instead of being job seekers, we have to understand the potential to become job creators and providers," the Major Archbishop explained. He pointed to scientific farming as a viable opportunity that could provide employment for many.
Historical Political Influence Diminishing
The Syro-Malabar Church once held considerable political and social power in Kerala. However, its bargaining power in politics has been declining. This weakening position stems largely from having fewer community members available for mobilization.
The decline of the regional Christian party Kerala Congress (M) illustrates this trend. Once dominant in Central Kerala politics, the party and its splinter groups have lost influence. Falling numbers of Christians, particularly Catholics, mainly explain this political shift.
Youth Migration Creates Family Voids
Young people migrating for jobs has created significant challenges. Many settle permanently in countries like the US, Canada, and various European nations. This exodus has left voids in numerous families, especially in Central Kerala districts.
To address this issue, various dioceses have started new initiatives:
- Providing training for competitive examinations to encourage youth to stay
- Establishing farmer producer companies with community members as shareholders
- Focusing on new farming initiatives and value-added products to boost farmer morale
Long-Term Efforts to Address Population Crisis
The Church launched a drive back in 2011 to promote larger families. This program offered various incentives for couples having four or more children. Sabu Jose, executive secretary of the Church's pro-life movement, reported positive results.
"Now we have around 5,000 families with four or more children," Jose stated. "It shows our message has been received positively."
However, challenges remain. Church findings indicate approximately one lakh men in Kerala still seek partners. A shortage of women in the matrimony landscape contributes to this situation.
Church Spokesperson Confirms Ground Reality
Father Tom Olikkarott, the Church spokesperson, confirmed that the circular reflects actual conditions on the ground. He noted that the issues raised apply to all communities experiencing population decline in Kerala.
The Church's call represents a strategic response to demographic changes affecting their community's political and social standing in the state.
