“This book explores the dynamic relationship between Christian faith and Karbi culture in Northeast India. An excellent study that examines the intersection of Christianity and culture, emphasizing inculturation as a path to meaningful evangelization. I recommend it as a valuable resource for theologians, missionaries, pastoral workers and anyone interested in effective evangelisation in the context of Northeast India and beyond.”

Most Rev. Paul Mattekatt, Bishop of Diphu

“Inculturation and dialogue are essential pathways for the Church’s mission. In the Indian context, engaging in dialogue with diverse cultures and religions is a crucial aspect of effective evangelization. This study seeks to develop a definitive strategy for pastoral ministry among the Karbis through cultural dialogue. I am confident that it will provide valuable insights and serve as a catalyst for pastoral efforts, particularly in the Diocese of Diphu.”

Prof. Dr. Thomas Karimundackal, SJ
Jnana Deepa, Pontifical Athenaeum of Philosophy and Theology, Pune

“This book makes it clear that the mission of the Church among the Karbis must bridge the gap between faith and culture through dialogue, mutual understanding, and respect for traditional values.”

Prof. Dr. Isaac Padinjarekuttu
Emeritus Professor, Jnana Deepa, Pontifical Athenaeum of
Philosophy and Theology, Pune

Contents

Foreword
Acknowledgements
Abbreviations
General Introduction

Chapter 1: The Karbi Culture: Socio-Culutural and Political Life

Introduction

1.1. The Terms Mikir and Karbi
1.2. The Origin of the Karbis
1.3. The Role of Land and Karbi Ethnicity
1.4. Socio-Political Organization
1.5. The Cultural Identity
1.6. Cultural Festivals
1.7. The Karbi Educational System: Jirkedam
1.8. Karbi Traditional Value System
1.9. Karbi Religious Beliefs and Traditional Religious Practices
Conclusion

Chapter 2: The Arrival of Christianity and the Impact of Catholic Faith on Karbi Society

Introduction

2.1. The Beginning of Bapatist Mission Among the Karbis
2.2. The Arrival of Catholic Church in Northeast India
2.3. The Spread of Christianity: Missionary Approaches
2.4. The Arrival of Catholic Church Among the Karbis
2.5. The Spread of Catholic Faith and the New Diocese
2.6. The Growth of Catholic Church: The Factors and Impacts
2.7. The Challenges of Being a Missionary/Priest in the Diocese of Diphu
Conclusion

Chapter 3: An Understanding of Culture and the Factors Responsible for Karbi Cultural Change

Introduction

3.1. Towards an Understanding of Culture
3.2. Some of the Features of Culture
3.3. The Attitude of the Catholic Church Towards Cultures
3.4. Some of the Factors Responsible for Cultural Change in the Karbi Society
Conclusion

Chapter 4: Inculturation and Dialogue: An Imperative for Pastoral Ministry Among Karbis

Introduction

4.1. Inculturation and Dialogue: Pastoral Implications
4.2. The Meaning of Inculturation
4.3. Towards a Theological Understanding of Inculturation
4.4. Holy Bible and Inculturation
4.5. Inculturation and the Church
4.6. Inculturation as a Process
4.7. Cultural Dialogue: A Strategy for Pastoral Ministry Among the Karbis
4.8. Better Pastoral Care with Emphasis on Faith Formation
Conclusion

General Conclusion
Bibliography

John Palathinkal is a priest of the Diocese of Diphu, Assam, India. He holds adoctorate in theology from the Leopold-Franzens University of Innsbruck, Austria. He conducts retreats and offers spiritual guidance and pastoral counselling in various countries across Europe and the United States. Currently, he is engaged in pastoral ministry in the Diocese of Regensburg, Germany.