Goa Interfaith Leaders Urge Rejection of Hate Speech, Call for Unity

CURCHOREM, Goa, October 17, 2026: Interfaith leaders representing Hindu, Muslim and Christian traditions have called for responsible speech, mutual respect and unity, urging people to resist divisive forces at the annual Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam gathering held on October 16 at the Guardian Angel Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology (GAIHMCT), Curchorem.

Held on the theme “Strengthening Goa’s Communal Harmony in Times of Growing Hate Speech”, the gathering focused on the role of individuals and communities in fostering peaceful coexistence.

Revered Snehal Ji of Chinmaya Mission, Curchorem, emphasised the importance of inner peace and compassion, declaring, “Peace is our Nature.” She said mindfulness and compassion in everyday life could help create a more peaceful society.

Mufti Mohammad Zafar Raza Misbahi, a Maulana at the Sunni Jamiya Masjid, Curchorem, invited the audience to reflect on humanity’s purpose and enduring search for peace. He urged people to resist divisive forces and strengthen unity.

Fr Mateus Fernandes, former Provincial of the Goa Province, highlighted the power of words to either build relationships or fuel hostility. Referring to the Epistle of St James, which compares the tongue to a small spark capable of setting a forest ablaze, he urged people to choose words that bring communities together rather than drive them apart.

The speakers highlighted Goa’s tradition of peaceful coexistence, calling for dialogue and mutual respect across religious communities.

Fr Elvis Fernandes, convenor of Sadbhav, summed up the gathering’s message, saying, “God is one, and we are journeying on different paths towards Him; humanity is one, while faith is expressed in diverse ways”.

The programme also featured cultural performances by students from local educational institutions. Guardian Angel High School presented a devotional dance, while Guardian Angel Higher Secondary School, Curchorem, staged a creative presentation. Students of Sarvodaya Educational Society’s High School performed an instrumental piece, followed by a patriotic dance by students of Chandrabhaga Tukoba Naik (C.T.N.) High School. Students of GAIHMCT presented a patriotic song.

Raynold D’Souza, principal of GAIHMCT, thanked the participating institutions and their heads for supporting the event, urging them to continue promoting interfaith understanding and peace.

By Catholic Connect Reporter