Christainity on the rise

Paro, July 13: Christianity has been gradually taking steps of popularity in Bhutan as more and more Bhutanese are joining the team despite government suppression.

The Christians claim that there are over 28 churches in the country at present. They are called Youth Friendship Church or Friend’s Church in places like Gasa, Thimphu, Tsirang, Phuentsholing and other towns.

It has been revealed that more than Nu 8 million is distributed to Bhutanese Christians through these churches, even the high level government officials or senior members of the community get share of this donation. Most are Roman Catholics.

Members of the Christian groups include people from all communities including Lhotshampas, Sharchops, Ngalongs, Doyas and others.

Government has banned the popularization of religions except Hinduism and Buddhism. However, lately, Hindus were forced to follow the Buddhist culture. Two preachers were sentences to 3.5 years of jail term by the authority very recently accused them of preaching Christianity in the country.

In fear of government atrocities, boards were not erected by weekend prayers and Sunday classes are run in full fledged manner. Marriage ceremonies are conducted as per the Christian system and children are tough bible without giving them information what they are taught. Kuldip, who has been Christian since seven years, said the expansion of the religion has been gaining momentum in both urban and rural areas despite government’s bull-eyes.

Others religions like Sai Baba, Manav Dharma and Pranami are also getting places in the Bhutanese societies. However, as they are sects of Hinduism, they are less targeted by the government authorities. Bhutan News Service/Binod Sanyashi