Kochi: The Irinjalakuda diocese of the Catholic Church has sought an explanation from one of its members from marrying Hindu women. Benny thommana belonging to the St Joseph’s Church at Oorakam had married Lija Jayasudhan 10 years ago. The couple follow their respective religions even after marriage. In March 2016, Benny got a letter from the diocese, seeking an explanation for marrying against the sacraments of the church. He was asked to appear before a special administrative tribunal of the church. The marriage was registered under the Special Marriage Act on February 7.2005. “I have’nt done anything against the law. We are being threatened and we want to lead peaceful life,” said Benny.
It all began six months ago when the parish vicar, Fr Pauly Padayatty came to bless the house. “He insisted that my wife and children should get baptised,” said Benny “ Following this we got calls from the Bishop’s House. I won’t appear before the tribunal. There is no question of conversion Our children will choose their religion when they grow up.” However, Fr Padayatty said the church records all events under it like baptism , funeral and marriage. “The tribunal calling him is a spiritual activity. We don’t task any one to convert, “he added. On why the church took so long. Fr Padaytty said. “The family had kept the marriage under wraps.” He added that if Benny is under the Catholic Church, he has to follow the sacraments of the church.
