Nepal: The arrival of missionaries in Nepal began around the 19th century, coinciding with the spread of Christianity in the country. With the aim of serving humanity through education and healthcare, missionaries entered Nepal and started providing essential services, especially in remote areas. Their work has a long-standing history of supporting underprivileged communities.

This spirit of service continued during major crises like the devastating earthquake of 2015 (2072 BS) and the global COVID-19 pandemic. During these times, the Christian community, through the Federation of National Christian Nepal (FNCN) and other Christian organizations, provided shelter and relief materials to affected people.

The missionaries initially entered Nepal through regions bordering India, and their significant presence was felt after Nepal opened up in the 1950s. Various international Christian organizations began contributing to education, healthcare, and social services in Nepal. Notably, organizations like the United Mission to Nepal (UMN) and the International Nepal Fellowship (INF) have provided impactful services in hospitals, schools, water management, and disability support.

Mission hospitals and development projects have been instrumental in improving the living standards of local people in districts such as Okhaldhunga, Syangja, Gulmi, Lamjung, Rolpa, Surkhet, Rukum, Pyuthan, and Palpa, among others.

To promote coordination, cooperation, and ensure the rights of the Christian community, the Federation of National Christian Nepal (FNCN) was established in 2011 (2068 BS). Representing Christian organizations across the country, the federation has played an active role in advocating for religious freedom in the constitution, engaging in dialogue with the government, and participating in various social and humanitarian activities.

According to the federation, the Christian community in Nepal focuses its services particularly on the poor, Dalits, women, and children. In recent years, Christian organizations have been visibly active in areas such as relief and rescue, education, healthcare, skill development, and rehabilitation.

The federation has continuously urged the government to uphold the principles of secularism by ensuring equal rights to all religious communities. It has specifically called for freedom to celebrate festivals, legal registration of churches, and proper management of cemeteries for the Christian community.

The entry of missionaries in Nepal emphasized service, support, and social justice over religious proselytization. Institutions like the National Christian Federation Nepal have not only helped preserve the identity of the Christian community but have also made significant contributions to the nation’s progress.

• Dipesh Shrestha is the elected Deputy General Secretary of the Federation of National Christian Nepal (FNCN)
• He is a journalist and owner of Geography News Network.
• contact with Email : [email protected]