ASIA/INDIA - The Bishops: pray for corruption-free nation on Diwali

Friday, 28 October 2016 violence   corruption   hinduism   dialogue  

New Delhi (Agenzia Fides) - A nation free of corruption, violence and divisive: is what the Catholic bishops in India want on the occasion of Diwali, the festival of lights which is celebrated on October 30. In their warmest greetings and felicitations "to the Hindu brethren throughout the world", the Bishops noted that the festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil.
"As our skies sparkle with fireworks and homes in our country will be illuminated with bright decorative lights, may our hearts be filled with the light of goodness and our country be rid of the darkness of corruption, violence and divisive forces " reads a message from the Bishops' Conference, sent to Agenzia Fides.
Diwali, a major Hindu festival, spiritually signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair. Its celebration includes millions of lights shining on housetops, outside doors and windows, around temples and other buildings.
On the occasion of Diwali, the faithful people clean, renovate, and decorate their homes and offices, dress up in new clothes, participate in family prayers and celebrate the festival in the family
The Bishops' message wants the festival "re-illuminate the minds and hearts of the believers, so that they can strive amid difficulties and challenges to stand for truth, light and life. May the celebration of Diwali usher in peace, progress and prosperity in our country and in the world", it concludes. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 28/10/2016)


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