Religious Harmony in Goa- Priests and their Flock lead by example
Goa has always won accolades and appreciation from all over the world for its picturesque natural landscapes, mesmerizing never-ending beaches, enthralling culture, scrumptious cuisine, and outstanding hospitality. Goa is equally known for its deep sense of spirituality. The towering churches built in Baroque, Neoclassical, and Gothic architecture and the relic of St. Francis Xavier in Bom Jesus basilica, Old Goa attract devotees of every faith in large numbers. Mangeshi, Shatadurga, Kamakshi temples and Safa mosque have their own significance and devotion. Living in harmony without any religious divide and sharing in the joy of each others religious festivals have been part and parcel of Goan culture. In my childhood, I along with my other Catholic friends would partake in festive meals and enjoy fireworks during Ganesh Chaturti and Diwali. And the same would be done by my Hindu friends during Christmas and other parish feasts in our village. But this age-old tradition of participation, especially visits to Hindu brethren on Ganesh festival by some priests and laity, has lately drawn some criticism from some ignorant and divisive online media and by certain sections of society terming it as idolatry.
Jesus Christ is the ultimate model and inspiration for inter-religious harmony. Being a Jew, he transcended and reached out to others outside of his own culture. His encounter with the Syro-Phoenician and Samaritan woman, the parable of the Good Samaritan, the praise of the Roman officers faith are striking examples showing Jesus openness to non-Jewish people. During the time of St. Paul, the Christians of Rome did not live in a Christian society either. He wrote to them, Live in peace with all if possible, to the extent that it depends on you (Romans 12:18). These words inspire us to do all we can to defuse tensions and to avoid conflicts and foster peaceful coexistence.
The Vatican II declaration, Nostra Aetate, clarifies the churchs position. It reads: The Catholic Church rejects nothing, which is true and holy in these religions. She looks with sincere respect upon these ways of conduct and of life, these rules and teaching, which though differing in many particulars from what she holds and sets forth, nevertheless often reflect a ray of the Truth, which enlightens all people. In his audience talk on 3rd April 2019, Pope Francis said, No one should be afraid that God has allowed there to be different religions in the world, But we should be frightened if we are not doing the work of fraternity, of walking together in life” as brothers and sisters of one human family.
Goa has always shown the way to the rest of the country with regard to religious harmony. Participating in each others religious festivals has been the essence of our culture. Participation doesnt necessarily mean worshipping and veneration but rather sharing in the joy. Putting the mind of Christ and understanding the renewed teachings of the Church will help every Catholic to spread the Good News of Christ effectively and efficiently. Let us share this joy of the Gospel with the brethren of other faiths through our words, thoughts and actions.
Rather than getting carried away with images, videos and news items that smack of fanaticism and divisiveness we should appreciate those who move out to build bonds of friendship and harmonious Human Society. Photos and videos can be misinterpreted, which has been purposely done in the news items circulated on social media regarding priests visiting hindu brethren. When we look at the Priest Praying in the picture the focus is not on who he is praying to but who he is praying for. A priest who has surrendered his life to Lord Jesus Christ will never commit idolatry but surely with the heart of his Lord will pray to One Almighty God for all his brothers and sisters around him. And that is what we are called to do ‘pray for each other’. Let us be messengers of God’s Love and kindness to all and build harmonious small human communities around us.
By Fr. Onasis D’Cruz
Edited and Adapted by DCSCM, Goa.
https://archgoadaman.com/2022/09/09/religious-harmony-in-goa-priests-and-their-flock-lead-by-example/
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