Church Leaders Reflect on Interreligious Dialogue at Workshop in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, March 6, 2026: Church leaders, theologians, and clergy from different parts of India gathered in Bengaluru for a two-day workshop focused on strengthening interreligious dialogue and ecumenical cooperation in the country.

The workshop, organised by the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CBCI) Office for Dialogue and Desk for Ecumenism in collaboration with the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KRCBC) Commission for Interreligious Dialogue and Ecumenism, was held at the National Biblical, Catechetical and Liturgical Centre (NBCLC) in Bengaluru.

The programme brought together participants to reflect on the Church’s role in fostering dialogue among religions and strengthening unity among Christian denominations within India’s diverse social and religious landscape.

The inaugural session, hosted by Sr. Clarice AC, began with a welcome address by Fr. Dr. Nysson Luka, Assistant Director of NBCLC. In his remarks, he underscored the growing importance of interreligious dialogue in the current socio-cultural context.

Delivering the keynote address, Joseph Kallarangatt, Bishop of Pala and National Chairman of the CBCI Office for Dialogue and Desk for Ecumenism, highlighted the Church’s mission to promote harmony and mutual respect among followers of different religions. He noted that such dialogue gains deeper significance within the vision of a synodal Church.

Fr. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of the CBCI, offered felicitations and encouraged participants to take an active role in building bridges of understanding and cooperation among communities. The objectives and framework of the workshop were presented by Fr. Vinay Kumar, Regional Secretary for Interreligious Dialogue and Ecumenism of the KRCBC.

Sessions on interreligious dialogue were led by Fr. Dr. Vincent Sekhar SJ and Fr. Dorathick Rajan OSB Cam, who reflected on synodality and explored practical approaches to dialogue in a multi-religious society.

The workshop also focused on ecumenism, emphasising unity among Christian denominations. Joseph Susainathan, the Karnataka Regional Chairman for the Interreligious Dialogue and Ecumenism Commissions, presided over the Holy Mass. Presentations by Dr. Jose Kizhakkekuttu CMI and Dr. Sham Thomas highlighted the significance of ecumenical ministry in the Indian context.

Participants later engaged in group discussions on synodality, challenges in interfaith engagement, and the Church’s role in promoting peace and mutual understanding. A panel discussion moderated by Fr. Vinay Kumar featured representatives from different Christian traditions, including Mr. Pericho Prabhu of UCF, Benny from the Assemblies of God, and Mr. Robin of ADF, who shared their experiences and responded to questions from participants.

The participants expressed appreciation for the planning and coordination of the workshop led by Fr. Dr. Anthoniraj Thumma, National Secretary of the CBCI Office for Dialogue and Desk for Ecumenism.