Welcome to the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore, where a transformative two-day Interreligious Dialogue (IRD) workshop recently took place. The primary goal of the event was to build bridges of understanding and collaboration among diverse faith communities in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India.
Written by Fr. Ritchie Vincent – India, LiCAS News
The IRD workshop brought together 44 participants from 17 dioceses and was a collaborative effort by the Secretariat for Inter-Religious Dialogue and Ecumenism of the Tamil Nadu Catholic Bishops’ Conference (TNBC), the Commission for Evangelization and Inter-Religious Dialogue of the Archdiocese, and the Spirituality and Dialogue Commission of the Jesuit Chennai Province.
Fr. Robin S. Seelan, SJ led the discussions, emphasizing the pressing need for dialogue in a world increasingly divided by differences. “In today’s global landscape, fostering understanding and peace through dialogue is crucial,” expressed Fr. Seelan. The workshop prompted attendees to delve into their own faith traditions while gaining insights into other religions.
During the Eucharistic celebration, Fr. Benadict Barnabas, Regional Secretary of the TNBC Dialogue and Ecumenism Commission, underscored the significance of cultivating harmony within a multi-religious society. “Promoting harmony in a diverse religious setting is not just a duty; it is vital for the Church,” emphasized Fr. Barnabas.
The participants delved into Church documents and practical strategies for engaging with other faith groups, with themes of co-existence and shared responsibility emerging as central discussion points.
Fr. E. Manuvel, Secretary of the Evangelization and Dialogue Commission in Chennai-Mylapore, stressed, “The path forward lies in love and dialogue, especially during challenging times.”
The closing Eucharist was presided over by Bishop Lawrence Pius, Chairman of the TNBC Secretariat for Inter-Religious Dialogue and Ecumenism. Bishop Pius encouraged attendees to remain receptive to the wisdom present in other faith traditions, asserting that “Genuine dialogue enriches all parties involved.”
The workshop equipped participants with tools and perspectives to integrate inter-religious dialogue into their ministry work. As the Catholic Church looks ahead to the Jubilee Year 2025 themed “Pilgrims of Hope,” the workshop underscored the enduring necessity of dialogue in fulfilling the Church’s mission.
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