“Diversity is a Gift to be Cherished,” says Cardinal Ferrão

Palakkad, May 15, 2026: “Here cultures meet, languages intertwine and religions coexist. This diversity is not a problem to be solved, but a gift to be cherished,” said His Eminence Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão while inaugurating Navajothi Bhavan, the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, and Sahodhara Bhavan, the Diocesan Seminary of the Diocese of Sultanpet at Kanjikode, Palakkad on Friday 15 May 2026.

Delivering an inspiring homily during the solemn thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration, Cardinal Ferrão called upon the Church to become a beacon of communion, peace and service in today’s divided world. He said the new institutions should not remain merely buildings of brick and stone, but become living centres of hope, dialogue and Gospel witness.

Reflecting on the challenges of Christian ministry, Cardinal Ferrão noted that authentic pastoral witness demands perseverance, humility, patience and genuine love. In a diverse society like Sultanpet, he said, the Church is called to build bridges among communities, foster harmony among religions and respect the richness of different languages and cultures while remaining firmly rooted in Christ. He encouraged the faithful to become “peacemakers and witnesses of hope” rooted in Christ and open to all.

Highlighting the spirit of synodality, Cardinal Ferrão said Navajothi Bhavan should become “a house of listening” where every person finds dignity, welcome and participation.

By Catholic Connect Reporter