Media Release

Bengaluru, Jul 24: The year 2019 commemorates 800th anniversary of encounter between St. Francis of Assisi, a medieval Saint from Italy and Sultan al-Malik al-Kamil of Egypt. The followers of St Francis of Assisi, known as Franciscans ministering in various places in the Archdiocese of Bengaluru together with Most Rev Dr Peter Machado, the Archbishop commemorate this anniversary by holding an ‘Inter-religious event on dialogue, peace and harmony on July 27 2019 at 3.30 PM in St. Joseph’s Boys’ High School Auditorium, Bengaluru.

In the middle ages, thereaisters despite the religious differences. Even though, it is 800 years ago that St. Francis undertook this journey of peace, such an initiative is indeed the need of the hour today.

During this Inter-religious event on July 27, the representatives from different faiths will address the gathering on how it is possible to find the common ground for peaceful and harmonious existence in the world in spite of our differences. Most Rev Dr Peter Machado, the Archbishop of Bengaluru, an advocate of inter-religious dialogue, will deliver the presidential address. People of different faiths, young and old, men and women are expected to partake in this celebration.

India, our beloved nation, is a home to people of different faiths. India has always been a nation of dialogue, peace, harmony and tolerance. The Franciscans ministering in Bengaluru and elsewhere in India commit themselves to promote respect for all faiths, to encourage dialogue across various religions and to create peaceful environment walking in the footprints of the Founder St Francis of Assisi.