Message of Interfaith Harmony on the 28th Death Anniversary of Saint Mother Teresa in Prayagraj

Prayagraj, 05 September 2025 – Thousands of devotees gathered at St. Joseph’s College auditorium today for a grand interfaith tribute marking the 28th death anniversary of Saint Mother Teresa. Organised by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Allahabad, the event carried the theme “Harmony and Humanity” and sought to renew Mother Teresa’s timeless message of interfaith harmony and selfless service.

The programme began in the evening with a moving PowerPoint presentation on Mother Teresa’s life, followed by a prayer dance performed by students of Bethany Convent School, Naini. A floral tribute was then offered at her portrait, expressing heartfelt homage.

The highlight of the evening was the interfaith scripture reading, where representatives of diverse religions shared passages on unity, peace and service to humanity. Among those who participated were Shri Satya Prakash Tiwari (Hindu), Maulana Dr. Muntazir Mehdi (Islam), Giani Charan Singh (Sikh), Fr. Joseph Francis (Catholic), Dr. G.S. Shakya and Bhante Nitesh Vardhan (Buddhist), Dr. Santosh Kumar Jain (Jain), Brahmakumari Manorma Didi, and Sant Virendra Saheb (Kabir Panth).

The cultural presentations added to the solemn atmosphere: a touching group song by students of Divya Jyoti Niketan (a school for visually impaired children), a graceful dance by students of St. Anthony’s Convent School, and a short play on Mother Teresa’s life staged by seminarians from St. Joseph’s Regional Seminary. Each performance drew deep appreciation from the audience.

Chief Guest Bishop Louis Mascarenhas, in his benediction, urged everyone to take inspiration from Mother Teresa’s example and dedicate themselves to serving humanity. The sisters of the Missionaries of Charity from Nirmala Shishu Bhavan, Muirabad, received special recognition during the event. Bishop Mascarenhas also honoured distinguished guests with mementoes and shawls.

Prominent attendees included Bishop Morris Edgar Dan of the C.N.I. Lucknow Diocese, Nazareth Hospital Director Fr. Vipin D’Souza, St. Joseph’s College Principal Fr. Walter D’Souza, St. Mary’s Convent School Principal Sr. Lizy C.J., and St Anthony’s Inter College Principal Sr. Bessy F.D.C.C.

Sr. Martha C.J. opened the gathering with a warm welcome, while programme coordinator Fr. Valerian D’Souza, Director of the Commission for Interfaith Unity and Dialogue, delivered the vote of thanks.

The ceremony stood as a powerful reaffirmation of Mother Teresa’s enduring legacy, once again spreading her immortal message of peace, unity and service across faith traditions.

Fr. Valerian D’Souza

Director

Commission for Ecumenism & Dialogue

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