Interfaith Leaders Deliberate on Ecology and Social Justice in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, February 3, 2026: Religious scholars and leaders from diverse faith traditions came together at the Indian Institute of Spirituality (IIS), Bengaluru, on February 2 for the Rev. Dr. Antony Mookenthottam MSFS Memorial Inter-Religious Dialogue, reflecting on the theme “God in the Cry of the Earth and the Poor.”

Organised by the Indian Institute of Spirituality, incorporated with St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute, the dialogue provided a platform for interfaith engagement on the interconnected ecological and social challenges facing humanity. The discussions underlined a shared moral responsibility across religions to respond to environmental degradation and the growing plight of the poor.

Presenting the Christian perspective, Prof. Dr. Dexter S. Maben drew on biblical foundations, Christian social teaching and the Church’s vision of integral ecology, stressing that concern for the earth and solidarity with the poor are inseparable dimensions of faith.

Perspectives from other religious traditions enriched the dialogue. Ven. Bhikku Saranarakkhit highlighted Buddhist principles of compassion, interdependence and mindfulness as pathways to address suffering and ecological imbalance. Sr. B. K. Gitanjali, speaking from the Hindu tradition, emphasised the sacredness of nature, dharma and human responsibility towards creation and marginalised communities.

The Jain perspective underscored ahimsa, simplicity of life and reverence for all living beings as ethical responses to contemporary crises. From the Islamic tradition, Mrs. Fathima Sarah reflected on Qur’anic teachings on stewardship and social justice, calling attention to humanity’s role as custodians of the earth and advocates for the poor. The Zoroastrian viewpoint, presented by Mr. Shereyar D. Vakil, focused on moral responsibility and the protection of creation in the ongoing struggle between good and evil.

The dialogue was moderated by Fr. Ajay Lobo and Fr. Joseph SDB, and concluded with expressions of gratitude by Fr. Joe Bosco Panjikaran, who acknowledged the contributions of the speakers, organisers and participants.

By Catholic Connect Reporter