From left: Religious leaders from Arya Pratinidhi Sabha with Fr Donal McIlraith and Lourdes Rank. Photo: Pescila Magdalin
Holi and Eid Illuminate Faith Connections at Suva Interfaith Dialogue
Christian community members in Suva gained new insights into Hindu and Muslim traditions during an interfaith dialogue hosted at the Columban Central House on 12 February 2025. The event, organised by the Interreligious Dialogue Ministry, brought together Hasan Khan of the Fiji Muslim League and Bhuwan Dutt, a Hindu representative, to share the meaning behind Eid and Holi.
Hasan emphasised Eid’s role in fostering unity, charity, and spiritual reflection. Bhuwan highlighted Hinduism’s inclusive values, urging respect and truth as the foundation of a harmonious society. Attendees engaged in respectful Q&A, deepening mutual understanding. The event concluded with vegetarian refreshments and a renewed commitment to interfaith dialogue.
Faiths Unite for Ramadan Iftar and Prayer in Suva
On 15 March 2025, an interfaith Iftar hosted by the Fiji Muslim Youth Movement brought together people of various religious backgrounds to share a meal, prayer, and reflection during the holy month of Ramadan.
As Columban IRD coordinator, I joined the gathering and participated in prayers and conversations that underscored shared values across faiths. The warm, inclusive atmosphere encouraged open dialogue and reinforced the importance of mutual respect and spiritual solidarity. Events like this remind us of the power of shared humanity in breaking barriers and building peace.
Fiji Muslim Youth Movement brought together people from various faiths to a meaningful opportunity to foster interfaith understanding and unity. Photo: Pescila Magdalin
Fiji Muslim Youth Movement brought together people from various faiths to a meaningful opportunity to foster interfaith understanding and unity. Photo: Pescila Magdalin
Students Embrace Dialogue in Faith Awareness Sessions at Marist Brothers High
More than 120 students from Year 9 and Year 10 at Marist Brothers High School participated in a series of interfaith awareness sessions designed to promote respect and openness across religions on 19 March 2025. Originally planned for two classes, the initiative expanded due to enthusiastic student interest.
Through interactive presentations and discussions, students explored the role of dialogue in fostering peace and understanding. Many expressed a deeper appreciation of other religions and an eagerness to join the upcoming Interfaith Pilgrimage Walk. These sessions mark a promising step toward raising a generation committed to respectful coexistence.
Students were encouraged to develop a more inclusive and open-minded approach to diverse faiths. Photo: Pescila Magdalin
Theological College Explores Interfaith Leadership and Unity
Also in March, Pacific Theological College students engaged with interreligious dialogue for the first time in a dynamic session focused on faith-based leadership, peacebuilding, and unity across religions.
I shared personal reflections on Christian leadership and the power of servant leadership in fostering interfaith harmony. Students responded with enthusiasm, expressing interest in participating in the upcoming interfaith pilgrimage. The session not only introduced them to core principles of dialogue but also inspired them to become ambassadors of peace in their communities.
Theological students gathered to explore the connection between the faiths and interfaith work. Photo: Pescila Magdalin
Interfaith Pilgrimage Walk Bridges Faiths and Builds Unity
More than 40 participants from Hindu, Muslim, Mormon, and Christian communities joined the Interfaith Pilgrimage Walk through Suva on 29 March 2025, visiting four places of worship and engaging in dialogue and shared spiritual reflection.
Starting with a Muslim-led prayer for peace, the group visited a Hindu temple, mosque, Latter-day Saints chapel, and Catholic church. At each stop, religious leaders welcomed pilgrims, shared teachings, and answered questions. Despite a late downpour, the walk concluded joyfully at St Joseph the Worker Parish, where Fr Michael Kumar emphasised the value of interfaith learning and environmental care.
The pilgrimage deepened mutual respect and highlighted the strength of Fiji’s religious diversity. The Columban Interreligious Dialogue Ministry looks forward to continuing this important work.
The pilgrims stand at the mosque’s doorstep, ready to enter and listen to their religious leaders’ words of wisdom. Photo: Pescila Magdalin
Pescila Magdalin.
Columban Interreligious Dialogue Coordinator.
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