News
Dr A. George Ninan, an ecumenical leader of international standing and a long-time pastor and diocesan bishop in the Church of North India (CNI), passed away in New York City on 21 June at the age of 80. Called by some “the radical voice of the voiceless”, throughout his ministry he organized for the poor, oppressed and outcast in India and, in retirement, continued as a church and community volunteer in the USA.
His doctoral studies were financed in part by a scholarship from the World Council of Churches. In 1979, Bishop Ninan became executive secretary of the Urban-Rural Mission of the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA) at Hong Kong. In 1986, he became the associate general secretary of the CCA in Singapore. This led on to a lively career in social action and Christian ministry.
As the bishop of the Nasik Diocese, Ninan contributed to rejuvenation of that pre-dominantly Dalit diocese. In 2001, Bishop Ninan and his wife decided to move from India to Canada and the USA, where their three children were based.
“As we mourn his death and the loss of a great ecumenical leader in him, we pray that the Indian churches will continue his legacy to work for the betterment of the poor and marginalized people,” said Georges Lemopoulos, the WCC acting general secretary.
“On behalf of the WCC, I express sincere condolences to the bereaved family and members of the CNI,” Lemopoulos added.
Tribute to Bishop George Ninan by Rajendra Sail, one of Bishop Ninan’s close associates
Letter of condolence from the WCC acting general secretary
