‘Forging pathways of peace’: Vatican’s message to Hindus ahead of Diwali

The Vatican has extended a message of peace to Hindus and Christians ahead of the Diwali festival, which is scheduled to be celebrated on November 8. The Vatican’s Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue has urged both communities to build stronger relationships through prayer, compassion, and dialogue. This message, titled “Hindus and Christians: Forging pathways of peace together in the spirit of Assisi,” marks 40 years since a historic meeting of religious leaders in Assisi, Italy, in 1986, organized by Pope John Paul II.

The gathering, known as the “spirit of Assisi,” aimed to promote peace and address global challenges through faith communities. The Vatican has highlighted three ways Hindus and Christians can contribute to peace: praying together, treating each other as brothers and sisters, and engaging in interfaith dialogue. Prayer is encouraged to transcend differences and foster compassion, while fraternity involves showing kindness and respect to all, regardless of their religious background.

Interfaith dialogue is seen as vital for promoting peace worldwide. The Vatican has also emphasized that religion should not be a justification for violence and called on Hindus and Christians to focus on shared values. Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is celebrated by Hindus to symbolize the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and life over death.

It is a time for family reunions, worship, and celebrations. The Vatican has urged Hindus and Christians to draw inspiration from the 40th anniversary of the Assisi gathering and pray for peace, practice fraternity, and engage in dialogue with others. The message concludes with a warm greeting for Hindu communities worldwide, wishing them a Happy Diwali.