Interfaith Leaders Call for ‘Faith in Action’ at Sadbhav Sammelan in Pilar, Goa

Goa, February 6, 2026: Religious leaders, scholars, educators, and students from diverse faith traditions came together at Pilar on Thursday for the fourth edition of the Society of Pilar’s Sadbhav Sammelan 2026, an international interfaith conference aimed at promoting dialogue and peace. The two-day event is being held at the Pilar Pilgrim Centre on the theme “Together for Peace: Faith in Action.”

In his inaugural address, educationist and researcher Dr. Narayan B. Desai of Goa urged participants to practise a lived faith grounded in compassion, ethical responsibility, and dialogue. Describing sadbhav as a lifelong human quest shaped by inner attitudes and values, he stressed that genuine learning and harmony begin with listening to those who hold different beliefs and traditions.

Dr. Desai cautioned against religious exclusivism, warning that selfishness can distort faith even within religious institutions. He underlined the role of compassion in leading to righteousness and said platforms such as the Sadbhav Sammelan create vital spaces for coexistence and meaningful engagement. Quoting Sant Kabir, he reminded the gathering that moral integrity remains the highest spiritual wealth. Reflecting on India’s spiritual heritage, he noted that peace (shanti) forms the foundation for strength (pushti) and contentment (tushti), expressing hope that the Sammelan would deepen interfaith cooperation and contribute to global peace.

Guest of Honour Fr. Nazareth Fernandes SFX reflected on the evolution of the Sadbhav Sammelan, describing it as an initiative that has “quietly but powerfully built bridges” through listening, learning, and shared humanity. In an increasingly polarised world, he said, peace must be understood as the active presence of understanding, compassion, and mutual respect. Drawing insights from multiple faith traditions, he emphasised that all religions carry a call to peace and urged participants—especially the youth—to translate belief into action through dialogue, service, solidarity, and a renewed commitment to peacemaking.

Fr. Elvis Fernandes SFX, Convenor of the international conference, outlined the vision of the fourth edition, describing the Sammelan as a dynamic platform that brings together students, educators, researchers, peace activists, and faith leaders. Emphasising the theme “Together for Peace: Faith in Action,” he highlighted the role of religious traditions in addressing contemporary challenges such as social injustice, environmental degradation, and conflict. He called on participants to uphold human dignity, shared humanity, and human rights, expressing hope that the gathering would inspire sustained efforts toward peace and harmony in India and beyond.

Fr. Lawrence Fernandes SFX, Director of the Pilar Pilgrim Centre, spoke on the Society of Pilar’s legacy as a force for unity. Citing Vinoba Bhave, he observed that while human knowledge has expanded, hearts have often grown narrower, contributing to global conflict. He expressed hope that the Sadbhav Sammelan would help nurture fraternity, peace, and collective action across religious boundaries.

Several dignitaries were present at the inaugural session, including Fr. Fredrick Rodrigues, Principal of Fr. Agnel College; Dr. Russell D’Souza, Principal of Nirmala Institute of Education, Panaji; and Fr. Daniele Mazza, the keynote speaker.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD

Photo credit: Sankalp Naik