Interfaith Gathering Remembers Archbishop Angelo Fernandes’ Legacy of Peace and Dialogue

NEW DELHI, July 29, 2026: Religious leaders, clergy and members of different faith communities gathered at St Luke’s Church, Defence Colony, on July 28 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Archbishop Angelo Innocent Fernandes and remember his enduring contribution to peace, mutual respect and interreligious dialogue.

The gathering was organised by Fr Norbert, Director of the Ecumenism Commission of the Archdiocese of Delhi, with the support of Fr Jose T. J. The venue, St Luke’s Church, founded by Archbishop Fernandes in 1978, provided a significant setting for recalling his pastoral leadership and commitment to building vibrant faith communities.

Archbishop Anil J. T. Couto of Delhi attended the programme and reaffirmed the importance of promoting harmony and mutual understanding through dialogue and cooperation among different communities.

Representatives of several religious traditions participated in the gathering, including the Muslim, Jewish, Jain, Buddhist, Bahá’í, Brahma Kumaris and Christian communities. Those present included Athar Sayeed of All India Radio, Maulana Shaheen Qasmi, BK Husain Bandi, Dr A. K. Merchant representing the Bahá’í Faith, Rabbi Ezekiel Malekar of the Jewish community, Acharya Yeshi representing the Buddhist tradition, Sanjay Jain representing the Jain community and senior journalist Prashant Kanojia, along with priests, religious and members of various faith communities.

The programme began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolising the shared pursuit of light, wisdom and peace. Representatives of the participating faiths reflected on the importance of interfaith dialogue and highlighted common values such as compassion, respect and justice, as well as the shared responsibility to work for the common good.

A presentation by Fr Jose T. J. on the life and legacy of Archbishop Fernandes was a key feature of the gathering. Drawing on publications associated with Vidyajyoti College of Theology, he highlighted the late Archbishop’s contribution to education, dialogue and institution-building, and his lasting influence on the Church’s efforts to foster understanding and cooperation among people of different faiths.

Archbishop Angelo Innocent Fernandes (1913–2000) served as Archbishop of Delhi from 1967 to 1990. He participated as a Council Father in all four sessions of the Second Vatican Council from 1962 to 1965 and served as Founding President of the World Conference on Religion and Peace from 1970 to 1984. His ministry was marked by a commitment to peace, justice and interreligious dialogue at both national and international levels.

The gathering reaffirmed the need to carry forward Archbishop Fernandes’ vision in India’s religiously diverse society. Participants expressed their commitment to strengthening relationships among faith communities through regular dialogue, collaborative service initiatives and continued efforts to promote peace and harmony.

The Ecumenism Commission of the Archdiocese of Delhi also expressed gratitude to Fr Umesh Ekka, Parish Priest, and Fr Suresh Babu, Assistant Parish Priest of St Luke’s Church, Defence Colony, for providing the venue and supporting the organisation of the programme.

The gathering concluded with a renewed commitment to preserving Archbishop Fernandes’ legacy of dialogue, reconciliation and unity, encouraging people of different faiths to work together towards a more peaceful and harmonious society.

By Catholic Connect Reporter