In the vibrant landscapes of Suva and Nadi, a quiet but powerful transformation is taking place. Beyond the boundaries of individual doctrines, the people of Fiji are weaving a new tapestry of spiritual solidarity. This report highlights the recent milestones of Columban Interreligious Dialogue (IRD), where Hindu, Muslim, and Christian traditions have become a shared language for peace and ecological justice. From pilgrimage walks under the open sky to the curious faces of primary school students discovering the Golden Rule, these initiatives prove that while our prayers may sound different, our call to protect our common home is one and the same.
Interreligious Dialogue and JPIC Joint Event: Season of Creation 2025
Different faiths gathered to share responsibilities for our common home. Photo: Pescila Magdalin.
On the 13th of September 2025, the Interfaith Season of Creation Pilgrimage Walk commenced at the Nazareth Prayer Centre. This meaningful gathering brought together various faith traditions in a spirit of unity, peace, and shared responsibility for our common home.
The program featured the recitation of sacred texts and insightful reflections. Hindu representatives highlighted the sacredness of the Earth and all living beings as found in their scriptures, leading prayers for forgiveness for environmental harm. A significant highlight was the participation of young Catholics, who witnessed the beauty of diverse prayer traditions, fostering a spirit of solidarity and respect.
As Scripture reminds us, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them” (Matthew 18:20). Amidst the natural beauty of the prayer centre, each faith tradition contributed wisdom and song, reinforcing the mission that safeguarding the environment is a duty entrusted to all humanity.
Interfaith Leaders Unite for Ecological Peace
Religious leaders/members from different faiths gathered for collaboration, to pray and act during the interfaith prayer service. Photo: Pescila Magdalin.
On 1 September 2025, at the invitation of Archbishop Peter Loy Chong, faith leaders gathered to plan a joint interfaith prayer service centred on the theme "Peace with Creation" (inspired by Isaiah 32:14–18).
Representatives from the Shri Sanatan Dharm, Fiji Muslim League, Methodist Church, TISI Sangam, Anglican, and Catholic Churches engaged in dialogue, emphasising that ecological peace is rooted in justice and right relationships. While the Season of Creation is a Christian initiative, it provides a powerful platform for interfaith collaboration, as values of compassion and ecological justice are shared across all religions. The leaders committed to “Pray, Act, Change, and Reconcile” for a flourishing world.
Sowing Seeds of Harmony: IRD Awareness in Lautoka and Nadi
Interreligious dialogue awareness conducted among the Students from Mount Saint Mary’s and Saint Thomas primary schools. Photo: Pescila Magdalin.
In late 2025, a series of Interreligious Dialogue (IRD) awareness sessions were conducted for parishioners and students in Lautoka and Nadi:
Catholic Parish Outreach
Columban ird coordinator Pescila Magdalin speaking to students on the significance of Nostra Aetate and interfaith collaboration. Photo: Pescila Magdalin.
On 26 October, IRD awareness was shared during Sunday Masses in Lautoka. With the support of parish priests Fr Sanjay Kizhakkinedath and Fr Veremo, the sessions emphasised love, unity, and respect for all religions as a core part of the Christian mission.
Empowering the Youth
Interfaith dialogue sessions were held at St Thomas Primary School (27 October) and Mt St Mary’s Catholic Primary School (5 November) for Years 6-8. Using a PowerPoint presentation on interfaith collaboration, students explored shared moral values.
Key Highlights:
- The Golden Rule Poster: Students were introduced to this poster featuring 13 sacred texts from different religions, all illustrating the universal principle of treating others with compassion.
- Demonstrations of Prayer: Students from different backgrounds shared how they pray in their own traditions. This fostered an atmosphere of openness and reverence for the divine.
Student Ambassadors: Through videos and notes, students expressed their enthusiasm for becoming ambassadors of peace in their daily lives..
Pescila Magdalin is the coordinator of the Interreligious Dialogue Columban Mission Office in Suva, Fiji.
Related links
- Read more from the current Columban Interfaith eBulletin
