The Church of Bangladesh is one of the oldest and most traditional Anglican Churches in Bangladesh. The history of the plantation of this church is quite old. The Anglican Church or Protestant Church originated in Bengal from the time of British rule in the Indian subcontinent. Since the Anglican Church in England is called the ‘Church of England’, the Anglican Church in undivided India was known as the ‘Church of India’ and in Pakistan as the ‘Church of Pakistan’.
Bangladesh became independent in 1971 after 9 months of a long and bloody liberation war and naturally the name of the East Bengal Church was changed to ‘Church of Bangladesh’. The Church validated the Cathedral as St. Thomas’ Church of Bangladesh under Dhaka Diocese which is located at 54 Johnson Road in Old Dhaka. This is the centre and tradition of the Anglican Congregation in Bangladesh with a unique determination in its pride. The Right Rev’d Samuel Sunil Mankhin, the present Bishop of Dhaka Diocese is the Moderator (Archbishop) of the Church of Bangladesh, lives here.
The Church of Bangladesh currently has three dioceses – Dhaka Diocese: Bishop Samuel Sunil Mankhin, Kushtia Diocese; Bishop Hemen Halder, and Barisal Diocese; Bishop Shourabh Pholia. There are a total of 8 deaneries and 115 parishes under the three dioceses. The population is about 22,000. Membership is diverse, including many different cultures. About half of the total members are from the Garo, Santal, Marma and Chakma ethnic groups of Bangladesh.
Though a small church, the Church of Bangladesh has a unique identity and pride in the country and abroad in terms of religion and spirituality. The Church of Bangladesh has cordial, deep spiritual and friendly relationships with all faiths in the country. The Church of Bangladesh has always been concerned about interfaith relations and regularly attends interfaith gatherings.
In addition to spiritual care, there is a Theology College, social development activities under the name Shalom, child care activities which are now known as CMCY. There are also Women Fellowships, Youth Fellowships, Bible School and Brigade activities, old age activities, a Brotherhood and Sisterhood. The Church of Bangladesh also has a tradition of nearly 150 years in the field of education and health services. Under the health care there is the Christian Mission Hospital in Rajshahi, Bollobepur Hospital in Bollovepur village and many community health care centers in different parts of the country which are actively serving patients both for preventive and curative measures.
Through the services and care of the Church of Bangladesh, people of all castes, colors, creeds and religions are receiving services of Christian love equally.
The motto of the Church of Bangladesh is to bear witness for Christ through service.
To know about the activities of the Church of Bangladesh, you may visit the following links.