On the occasion of the novena in preparation for the feast of St. Francis Xavier, the Committee for the Apostolate of Inter-Religious Dialogue in the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman organized its annual Inter-Religious Meeting at Old Goa (in the pandal, adjacent to the Basilica of Bom Jesus) on the 30th of November, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. The theme chosen for the day’s reflections was: Union with God, Values in Life (Deva Sangatan,Totvam Jivitant). The main aim of this event was to foster peace and harmony among the people of different faiths.

The meeting began with the singing of hymns and bhajans by the choir from Mater Dei led by Fr. Ivon Almeida and Fr. Mario D’Costa. A prayer dance choreographed by Sr. Elsy and performed by the novices of Holy Family Noviciate, Old Goa, evoked praises to the Almighty. Fr. Agnelo Pinheiro, Convenor of the Committee for the Apostolate of Inter-Religious Dialogue, extended a cordial welcome to all.

Speaking on behalf of the Hindu community, Purohit Sandeep Tengse highlighted the core of Indian traditional belief in the religion of Universal Love and pointed out the primacy of the values of friendship, mercy, contentment and detachment for the human well being. Mr. Iqbal Mohidin, representing the Islamic community, saw the meeting as a befitting tribute to St. Francis Xavier who rendered service to all, and exhorted everyone present to live out the values of love, peace and justice which are very essential for a harmonious living. Dr. Wanda Araujo, who represented the Catholics, emphasized that harmony is achieved when we have sincere respect for human life and for Nature. Peace is achieved when we combat the evils of self-centredness and materialism, and learn to think with our hearts rather than our minds. Quoting Gandhiji she called upon everyone present to be the change that one would like to see.

Fr. Tony Lopes, the Superior General of the Pilar Society, in his message focused on the oneness of God who is omnipotent, and the vitality of all creation. He stressed that peace and harmony would become a vibrant reality when humans sincerely live out the values of love, inner peace, truthfulness and responsive action.

An insightful skit entitled, “Religion is not a Boundary but a Bridge” staged by the Sisters from Mater Dei Convent, Old Goa, challenged everyone to be instruments of building bridges of love, concern and peace in the society. Ms. Caroline Cardozo led the congregation to solemnly pledge to uphold the shared values of all religions and strive towards building a peaceful society. 

The meeting was well attended by people of different faiths from all over the state as well as by the students from different educational institutions.

The programme was compered by Fr. Milagres Dias, while Fr. Caetano Fernandes proposed the vote-of-thanks.