MARGAO: On the occasion of the on-going novenas of St Francis Xavier, the Committee for the Apostolate of Inter-Religious Dialogue in the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman organised its annual Inter-Religious meeting on Thursday, November 30 at the Basilica of Bom Jesus Old Goa. The theme chosen for the occasion was: ‘Care for Creation, Human Obligation’ which gave a clarion call for safeguarding the environment at this meeting.
Earlier, the Parra Church choir led by Fr John Fernandes created a contemplative environment with the singing of hymns and bhajans in different Indian languages. The Holy Family and FMCK novices from Old Goa invoked Divine blessings through a beautifully choreographed prayer dance. Dignitaries from different religious traditions joined hands in cleaning a dusty terrarium so that the splendid beauty of nature inside it is clearly visible. This meaningful act symbolised the urgent need of a harmonious collaboration among all people irrespective of their religious affiliations to safeguard the earth, our common home.
Rev Dr Ramiro Luis accorded a cordial welcome to the audience comprising mainly of students and teachers of different faiths. Children with special needs from St Xavier’s Academy put up a stunning garba dance that was highly appreciated by the audience.
Dr Shefali Kale, Assistant (Asst) Professor, Department of Philosophy at St Xavier’s College, Mapusa, representing the Hindu faith, quoted the holy texts of Hinduism and said that the entire creation, in some form or the other, is an embodiment and extension of the divine. Hence the ‘dharma’ of every human person is to take care, protect and safeguard every being, both animate as well as inanimate, thereby fulfilling our responsibility in maintaining the cosmic balance.
Nazrana Banu Shaikh, Asst Professor, Department of Political Science at Carmel College Nuvem, speaking on behalf of the Islamic community, highlighted that in the vast tapestry of religious and ethical traditions, Islam stands as a beacon of guidance for its followers providing a comprehensive framework for leading a righteous and purposeful life. One fundamental aspect of Islamic teachings is the profound emphasis on environmental stewardship. Care for creation is a divine obligation that Allah has entrusted to every person on this planet, Shaikh added.
Perci Fernandes, an educationist who served as a headmistress in schools, representing the Catholic faithful, quoted the Holy Bible and emphasised the sacred relationship between God and creation. Referring to the teachings of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, in his encyclical, ‘Laudato Si’, she called on the participants to be responsible stewards of the environment. She went on to impress upon the students to diligently and faithfully follow the formula of 3Rs – ‘reduce, recycle and reuse’ in the endeavour to protect and preserve nature – a beautiful gift of God to mankind.
A skit by the students of Holy Cross Convent High School, Bastora and a mime by the students of St Xavier’s College, Mapusa, manifested in a powerful way how imperative it is for the human fraternity to work unitedly to preserve and promote the health of our planet for the well-being of the generations to come.
Lynessa Linson compered the event while Sr Godwina Pereira proposed the vote of thanks.
