Two Korean missionary nuns from the Pauline Order of Chartres have been accused of evangelism and imprisoned since September 14, 2021, and have yet to be released.
Sister Gemma Lucia Kim and Sister Martha Park were arrested while on a mission in Pokhara, 200 kilometers from Kathmandú, Nepal, where the two sisters ran a center that provided accommodation, food, education and health care. for poor children in the slums.
The local church has asked for the two nuns to be released on bail, but so far this request has always been postponed citing Hindu holidays. Everyone hopes the trial will be conducted on October 28.
Regarding the protection of the two nuns, in a statement published by Aid to the Churches in Need, Bishop Paul Simick, Apostolic Vicar to Nepal, expressed concern about the incident.
The accusations of evangelism are completely baseless and unjust. What is happening shows not only intolerance towards our missionaries, but also a complete lack of understanding of the needs of the poor. The work of two nuns in Nepal always benefits the poor and pays attention to social injustices. Two nuns dedicated their years of life to the poor and needy. As a Church, we ask for a detailed investigation into what happened.”
It is worrying that the health of Sister Gemma Lucia Kim and Sister Martha Park, both elderly, may deteriorate during their incarceration.
The Apostolic Vicar of Nepal declared. “The Catholic community views this incident as an attack on minority communities and intends to criminalize missionary activities. The two sisters' initiatives, such as social services, education and medical care, were seen as a lure for conversion."
The local church hopes the sisters will soon be free and be able to return to the community of Happy Home, a center that provides shelter, food, education, health services and specialized training for about 120 children in the Pokhara slum.
In Nepal, small Christian communities are now showing a growing vitality. However, hostility on the part of Hindu extremists is complicating the evangelization process and increasing accusations of forced conversion against Christians.