Interfaith dialogue thrives: Seventh Buddhist-Christian colloquium in Thailand

Thailand recently played host to the Seventh Buddhist-Christian Colloquium, underscoring the importance of interfaith dialogue and joint action to address the myriad issues plaguing humanity in an ever-evolving world.

Over 150 delegates from a variety of countries attended the event, which was centred around the theme Karu and Agape in Dialogue for Healing a Wounded Humanity and the Earth.

The colloquium was held at the Maha Chulalongkorn Rajavidyalaya University in Ayutthaya and brought together representatives from Buddhist and Christian communities across the globe. The primary objectives were to promote mutual understanding, strengthen relationships and delve into the scholarly depths of both religions to foster interfaith dialogues.

Distinguished personalities, including the abbot of Wat Phra Chettuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Ratchaworahawihan, and Somdet Phra Mahateerajarn, graced the opening ceremony. A symbolic gift from the Buddhist community of Thailand was presented to Pope Francis and Cardinal Miguel Angel Ayuso Guixot.

The colloquium’s discussions were centred on recognising the challenges faced by humanity. Despite these hurdles, the participants voiced a unanimous belief that unity, coupled with the practising of love and compassion inherent in their respective traditions, could serve as a guiding light for a world in turmoil.

Both Buddhists and Christians underscored the significance of love and compassion as remedies to the darkness pervading society. They pledged to work together, fostering a deep sense of responsibility to nurture a culture of empathy, reported Bangkok Post.

As the gathering concluded, it paved the way for the next assembly. All parties agreed that the Eighth Buddhist-Christian Colloquium is to be held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, in 2025, furthering the dialogue and alliance among these international communities.

In a South Thailand province marked by violence, Buddhists and Muslims are transcending religious divides to advocate for peace. Leaders from both faiths jointly led a peace rally in the city district of Narathiwat province. Read more HERE.