Interfaith Encounter in Mysuru Prison Kindles Hope and Renewal Among Inmates

Mysuru, May 13, 2026 : In a moving expression of the Church’s outreach to the margins, an interfaith gathering at the Central Prison Mysuru brought a message of hope, repentance, and reconciliation to hundreds of inmates on May 12, as part of the forthcoming Bakrid celebrations.

Organised by the Prison Ministry India (PMI), Mysuru Unit, the programme formed part of the Church’s ongoing pastoral care and rehabilitation efforts among prisoners. The initiative sought to foster spiritual reflection, inter-religious harmony, and inner transformation, echoing the Gospel call to accompany those on the peripheries of society.

Presiding over the event, Chief Superintendent C. Seshumurthy invited inmates to reflect deeply on the spiritual insights shared during the gathering. He urged them to embrace sincere prayer and conversion of heart, reminding them that their journey does not end within prison walls. “You are called to return to society as pilgrims of hope,” he said, encouraging a renewed sense of purpose and dignity.

The interfaith dimension of the programme was underscored by the presence of spiritual leaders from diverse religious traditions. Swami Agaharananda of the Ramakrishna Ashram spoke on the theme “All Religions are True,” drawing from the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. He emphasised the universality of spiritual experience, affirming that God can be realised through different paths and that the journey of learning and growth is lifelong.

Offering a complementary perspective, Shri Ameer Bannur from Mangaluru reflected on the importance of repentance and reconciliation as essential steps towards inner peace. He highlighted forgiveness as a transformative force capable of restoring broken lives and relationships.

From a Christian standpoint, Fr. Archibald Gonsalves, OCD, spoke on the theme “God is Love,” drawing inspiration from the Scriptures to assure inmates of God’s abiding mercy. Quoting the promise of a hopeful future, he encouraged them not to despair but to trust in divine providence and the possibility of renewal.

The programme was attended by prison officials, including Superintendent Ashe Khan, along with PMI Karnataka Regional Coordinator Dr. Michael Noronha, Sr. Nascita, Assistant Coordinator of the Mysuru Unit, and several dedicated volunteers. The event was compered by Bro. Dolphy DDS.

Marked by prayer, reflection, and shared testimony, the gathering witnessed active participation from a large number of inmates. Beyond religious boundaries, the programme conveyed a unified message: that no life is beyond redemption, and that hope, rooted in faith, can illuminate even the darkest paths.

By Fr. Arul Selva