Basics of Inter-Religious Dialogue

Since the promulgation of “Nostra Aetate” (the declaration of the Second Vatican Council on the Church's relationship to other religions), the Universal Church has increasingly stressed the need to engage in Inter-Religious Dialogue (IRD). The Post-Syndonal Document (2002) of the Archdiocese of Goa has also highlighted the value and importance of fostering dialogue with people from other Religions. 

Apostolate of Inter-Religious Dialogue (Archdiocese of Goa) and Sadbhav (Society of Pilar), are jointly organising a seminar on “Basics of Inter-Religious Dialogue” to enable Catholics Adults, on the one hand to be rooted in their faith and, on the other hand to understand and appreciate the stand point of people from other Faiths. At the end of the seminar the participants would develop appropriate attitudes and appreciation for Inter-Religious Dialogue. They would also possess the necessary disposition and skills in conducting InterReligious activities at the parish and deanery level. 

The seminar will include (a) Understanding IRD, What it is? What it is not? And Why IRD; (b) Biblical basis of IRD; (c) The Church Documents on IRD; (d) Creed, Code, and Cult of India’s Major Religions presented by those profess their faith; (e) Experiential sharing and Group discussions.

Eligibility and Requirements for Participation:

(a) Rooted in the Catholic Faith;

(b) Openness to learn about other Faiths; 

(c) Readiness to engage in activities with people from other Faiths;

(d) Minimum Educational Qualifications: Std. XII or equivalent, and sufficient knowledge of the English language; 

(e) recommendation from the local parish priest.