Jharkhand: How four missionaries shaped Ranchi’s religious landscape 179 years ago

As Christmas approaches, Ranchi, the capital of the tribal-dominated state of Jharkhand, is illuminated with festive decorations that rival those seen in predominantly Christian countries. These elaborate embellishments, reportedly part of government initiatives, have sparked discussions, especially in the context of Ranchi’s historical connection to Christianity.

In light of these developments, let us delve into the journey of four German missionaries who arrived in Ranchi 179 years ago, introducing Christianity to this region and leaving an indelible mark on its socio-religious fabric.

Rev. Emil Shutz, Rev. Fredrick Wach, Rev. August Banth, and Rev. Theodore Yanke set out from Berlin in 1844, intending to preach the gospel in Burma. However, circumstances led them to Kolkata, where they encountered Jharkhand’s tribal labourers. Captivated by the simplicity and resilience of the tribal communities, they decided to bring their mission to Chhotanagpur.

Rise in Missionary Activities and Changing Tribal Identity

Over the decades, Ranchi has witnessed a significant expansion of missionary initiatives. From educational institutions to healthcare facilities, the reach of these efforts has been extensive. However, this has also coincided with a notable shift in religious identity among Jharkhand’s tribal communities. Reports suggest that a substantial number of tribals have embraced Christianity, moving away from their traditional religious practices.

Ground report by Organiser reveals that missionary activities have extended from the plains to the hilltops, with an increasing number of tribals identifying as Christians.

Organiser’s Findings on Ground

Organiser’s on-ground reporting in Jharkhand highlights a significant rise in missionary activities in recent years. Educational institutions, churches, and social outreach programs are at the forefront of this expansion, influencing the socio-religious landscape of the region. This phenomenon has sparked debates about cultural assimilation, religious freedom, and the impact of external influences on tribal identity.

Missions from Germany to Ranchi

The missionaries began their journey from Berlin’s Bethlehem Church on July 10, 1844. Their mission was to spread the gospel among the Karen tribes in Mergui, Burma. However, their plans changed due to a war between the British and Sikhs in northern India. Consequently, they stayed in Kolkata, residing at the Bible Society premises, awaiting divine guidance.

During their stay in Kolkata, the missionaries came into contact with Jharkhand’s tribal labourers, who worked as porters. Struck by the simplicity and earnestness of these people, the missionaries decided to focus their evangelical efforts in Chhotanagpur. On February 25, 1845, they left Kolkata for Ranchi, travelling by bullock cart.

Arrival and Early Work in Ranchi

The missionaries reached Ranchi on November 2, 1845, after a brief stay in Bankura to learn Hindi. Recognising the linguistic diversity of Chhotanagpur, they chose Hindi as their medium of communication. Upon their arrival, they began serving the local population through evangelism, education, and healthcare.

Reaching Ranchi on November 2, the missionaries began their evangelical efforts, establishing schools, churches, and healthcare services. The first significant milestone came with the foundation of the Gossner Evangelical Lutheran (GEL) Church on November 18, 1851. This church not only served as a religious centre but also symbolised the growing influence of missionary activities in the region.

The first worship house was built at Bethesda Mission Station on December 1, 1845. This modest structure became a center for prayer and community gatherings.

The First Baptisms and Growing Congregations

On June 25, 1846, the first baptism in the region took place. A young girl was baptized and named Martha. The following day, five more children were baptized. Over the years, the number of baptisms grew, including individuals from various tribal communities. Notable baptisms included:

• Four Oraon individuals on June 9, 1850.
• Two Munda brothers on October 26, 1851.
• Nine Bengalis on October 1, 1855.
• A Santhal individual on June 22, 1864.
• Two Khadia brothers on June 8, 1866.
• The first member of the Ho community on May 10, 1868.

The growing congregation led to the establishment of churches in Domba (1847), Lohardaga (1848), Govindpur (1850), and Chaibasa (1864), among other locations.

Foundation of the GEL Church

On November 18, 1851, the foundation of the first GEL Church was laid. Construction was completed on December 24, 1855. The church became a beacon of faith, surviving significant challenges, including the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, during which four cannonballs struck the building. The marks of these attacks remain visible on the upper portion of the church.

The GEL Church continues to honour its traditions, such as placing an open Bible under the cross, a practice originating from the Lutheran Church in the 16th century.

As Ranchi shines in festive grandeur, the city’s history and its ongoing socio-religious transformation offer a reminder of the complexities of cultural and religious interplay in a rapidly changing world.