Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
New Delhi (Fides Service) - Three girls representing Christian, Hindu and Muslim communities in Indian state of Gujarat will carry a meassge of hope, dialogue and tolerance to 20th World Youth Day in Cologne Germany 11-21 August.
Their participation is symbolic since Gujarat state in west India has been the scene of violent clashes between Hindus and Muslims in which thousands died and it is also a region where Hindu fundamentalists launch attacks on Christian communities.
In fact World Youth Day, organised by the Catholic Church and this is the 20th edition, is mainly an event for Catholics and other Christians to celebrate their common faith in Christ but it is always open to young people of any or no religion, to launch a message of peace and reconciliation in today’s troubled world.
As part of activities in Germany from 11-16 August in preparation for the main celebration on 20 and 21 August the young Indian girls will join about 70 young people from 25 different countries to take part in a “Building a Better World” formation programme organised by the Society of Jesus in Germany. The idea of sending three girls of the three main faiths in India to WYD is an initiative of the Jesuit Prashant centre in Ahmedabad, main city of Gujarat.
Beena will represent the Christian community; Roseina the Muslim community and Kamna the Hinud majority community. The girls who have been called “the peace trio” hope their example will promote peace in this area troubled by violence with the city still organised in districts according to religion.
Prashant Centre, which promotes studies and formation as well as joint social activities for young people, hopes this iniziative will promote dialogue and friendship among more of Gujarat’s young people of different faiths to remove tension and build harmony.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 28/7/2005 righe 23 parole 231)
