Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Lucknow (Agenzia Fides) – A large group of religious leaders came together in Lucknow, the capital of the Indian state Uttar Pradesh (northern India), the day after the attacks in Bombay, to give a clear sign against terrorism and contribute to the establishment of peace and harmony in the country.
The interreligious encounter took place yesterday, November 30, organized by the Christian churches of all denominations in the city. The Christians encouraged believers and all men of good will to contribute to peace and harmony through their prayers for the victims of terrorism and show their rejection of violence, fighting, and the blind destruction of human life.
Catholic Bishop Gerald John Mathias of Lucknow, on behalf of all those present, expressed his grief and shock at the terrorism that sought to hurt such a multireligious and multicultural country as India. “At Bombay, our entire nation, our entire civilization, each one of the citizens of our beloved country was attacked,” he said. “Many religious leaders are in agreement with me and have also wished to attend this encounter,” the Bishop continued, “bearing witness to the will of the religious communities in establishing peace and harmony.”
“As believers from all the religions, we cannot remain silent. This is the time of solidarity with those who have been affected by the terrorism and their families. Let us remain united and show our power of peace and non-violence in the name of God,” the Bishop said, in addressing the crowd gathered for the vigil.
The Christians in India, in spite of having been subject to pressures and violence by radical Hindu groups, are seeking dialogue with religious leaders of all the communities present in the country: Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Jews, Sikh, and other minorities, in order to bring peace, reconciliation, and harmony back to India. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 1/12/2008)
