Chavara Cultural Centre, Delhi and Patna Archdiocese Host Inter-Religious Program Promoting Peace and Harmony

Chavara Cultural Centre, Delhi and Patna Archdiocese Host Inter-Religious Program Promoting Peace and Harmony

15 September 2024 | Navjyoti Niketan, Patna, Bihar

On 15 September 2024, the Chavara Cultural Centre, New Delhi, in collaboration with the Patna Archdiocese, organized a landmark Inter-Religious Program at Navjyoti Niketan, Sadakat Ashram PO, Patna, Bihar. Themed “Journeying Together to Promote Peace and Harmony: Scope and Challenges, in the Light of Different Faiths and Traditions in India,” the event brought together eminent religious leaders, civic authorities, scholars, and social thinkers for a meaningful dialogue on unity and social cohesion.

The programme was graced by Most Rev. Archbishop Sebastian Kallupura, Archbishop of Patna, as Chief Guest, whose presence and message emphasized the Church’s commitment to interfaith collaboration and national harmony. The event was further honoured by Smt. Sita Sahu, Mayor of Patna Municipal Corporation, as Guest of Honour, and Fr. Josey Mathias, SJ, Director and Manager of Prabhat Prakashan (Publication), as Guest of Honour, highlighting the importance of civic and intellectual partnership in social transformation.

The session was moderated by Adv. Sr. Cynthia C.J., Secretary of Chirag Education, Culture and Health Awareness Centre, Buxar, who guided the dialogue with insight and clarity. The distinguished panelists included Dr. Navin Kumar, Head of the Department of Physics, Notre Dame Academy, Patna; Mohammad Kashif Yunus, Advocate, Patna High Court; Dr. Fr. Isidore Dominic, Director of Navjyoti Niketan, Patna; and Dr. Manju Bala, Jain Representative, each contributing thoughtful reflections from their respective fields and faith perspectives.

The program served as a vibrant platform for dialogue and understanding, focusing on rebuilding bonds and strengthening fellowship among diverse faith communities in Bihar and beyond. Discussions explored both the opportunities and the challenges of promoting peace, justice, and social harmony in contemporary India, stressing the shared moral responsibility of all religious traditions.