Inter-Seminary Theological Symposium Held at Pilar, Goa

Goa, September 13, 2025: Pilar Theological Institute and the Good Shepherd Institute of Theology, Rachol, jointly organised an Inter-Seminary Theological Symposium on 13 September 2025 at the Seminary Auditorium, Pilar, Goa. The theme was “Committed to One’s Faith, Collaboration with Other Faiths.”

Adv. Devender Saini, Ex-Additional Advocate General of Haryana; Dr. Muniza Rafiq Khan, Registrar of the Gandhian Institute of Studies, Varanasi; and Dr. Fr. Rajkumar Joseph SJ, Principal and Professor at Vidyajyoti College, New Delhi, presented papers reflecting Hindu, Islamic and Christian perspectives. The symposium aimed to deepen understanding of inter-religious dialogue and promote respectful collaboration within India’s diverse religious landscape.

Perspectives Shared

From the Hindu perspective, Adv. Saini recalled the Supreme Court’s recognition of Hinduism as a “way of life.” He emphasised harmony among religions, noting that honesty, kindness and compassion are universal values. He proposed celebrating one another’s festivals and collaborating in education, environmental protection and disaster relief. “Hinduism’s strength lies in its ability to assimilate diverse traditions and uphold unity in diversity,” he said.

Dr. Muniza Khan highlighted Islam’s emphasis on steadfast faith and respectful cooperation. She clarified that portrayals of Islam as intolerant stem from isolated incidents, not from the Qur’an or Hadith, which affirm freedom of belief—“there is no compulsion in religion” (2:256)—and command justice for all. She cited Iftar gatherings, Eid Milan and joint celebrations as practical steps fostering peace in pluralistic societies.

Presenting the Christian view, Dr. Fr. Rajkumar Joseph SJ stressed that authentic dialogue requires being rooted in one’s faith: “Faith should be firm, but not rigid; dialogue respectful, not compromising.” He described Christianity as an encounter with Christ that inspires confidence without superiority. While affirming Christ as the fullness of revelation, he recognised holiness in other traditions, citing Vatican II. He outlined five forms of dialogue—life, action, theological exchange, religious experience and conflict resolution—and called for a “culture of encounter” where differences enrich rather than divide.

Fr. Ivan D Almeida SFX, Convenor of the symposium and faculty member at Pilar Theological Institute, said mature faith remains rooted in content yet open to adaptive expression, enabling authentic dialogue with the world.

Counsellor Pooja Prabudessai from Government College, Borda, said the symposium helped clear misconceptions and encouraged youth to reflect on preconceived notions.

Fr. Patricio Fernandes SJ, Rector of the Basilica of Bom Jesus, remarked: “The seminar fostered deep dialogue across religions and inspired me to build bridges of love for peace and a harmonious world.”

Sr. Gracy Lily FS of Mater Dei, Old Goa, said the event’s relevance lay in promoting shared human values, religious freedom and social justice. Marianinha D’Souza added that with one Creator, people are called to love and reach out without discrimination.

Seminarian Brendon D’Costa of Rachol Seminary described the symposium as essential for communal living, stressing that “humanity is primary and religion secondary.”

Ceremonies and Discussions

The event opened with the lighting of the lamp by Fr. Donato Rodrigues, Rector of Rachol Seminary; Fr. Norman Almeida SFX, Rector of Pilar Seminary; Fr. Ivan D Almeida SFX; the speakers; and dignitaries. A short prayer service followed with participation from Sisters of Mater Dei, scholastics of Pilar Seminary, students from Presentation School, Margao, Madrasa, Verna, and a Hindu couple from Vasco.

The morning sessions, moderated by Dr. Fr. Agnelo Pinheiro of the Good Shepherd Institute of Theology, featured scholastics Ryan Mascarenhas SFX and Newton Kingsley SFX, who shared reflections on Hinduism and Islam. A post-lunch panel discussion was moderated by Fr. Ivan D Almeida SFX.

Fr. Norman Almeida SFX welcomed the gathering, while mementoes were presented to the speakers and moderators by Fr. Anthony Joseph Fernandes SFX, Central Delegate Superior of Pilar. Scholastic Robinson Pacheco anchored the event, and Scholastic Aston Carvalho SFX proposed the vote of thanks.

By Bro. Malvino Alfonso

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