Flourishing Communities

The book explores the idea of Flourishing Communities. The opposite of which is fragile condition from where Dalit and Adivasi have to be emancipated. In the context where we live the hurdle to flourish is the caste system. The reason is that it promotes social inequality and segregation, untouchability, unfair distribution of resources, relentless communal conflicts, vicious cycle of poverty and regressive attitudes. As a result some castes dominate and others are enfeebled. This, however, should not drive us to despair as if we have hit the dead-end of the tunnel with no escape in sight. Even if the situation looks grim, there can be no question of surrender. People must carry on their struggle to resist oppression and promote flourishing communities despite the fragile conditions. The prospect of Flourishing Communities is the light at the end of the tunnel. It offers unifying vision for subaltern communities to overcome social and economic hurdles by the power of collective strength, rather than relying solely on individual effort. They can pursue their goals and achieve their aims by working together as opposed to striving for personal self-interest. It is towards this end that this book attempts to lay biblical foundations and principles for community-life to flourish. The Church of North India is one such Flourishing Community which offers hope for every oppressed person to progress in life.