India: Society of Pilar Hosts Dialogue on Shared Spiritual Experiences

The Pilar Fathers organized a two-day dialogue on religious experience on March 14–15, 2026, in Goa, southwest India, bringing together individuals from diverse faith traditions to share their spiritual journeys.

Titled Sadbhav Sadhana, the event was hosted by Sadbhav, the interfaith forum of the Society of Pilar, in collaboration with Subhamjinn Ashram and the Tambdi Maati Foundation.

Fr. Elvis Fernandes, convenor of Sadbhav, welcomed the participants and highlighted the purpose of the gathering, inviting all to share their spiritual journeys and grow in mutual understanding through dialogue. The programme began with spiritual songs led by Ahana Gulwadi, creating a reflective atmosphere.

This was followed by the session “Sharing of Spiritual Riches,” facilitated by Fr. Hilario Fernandes, Acharya of the Ashram. Participants shared personal experiences of prayer and faith, leading to sincere and heartfelt exchanges.

An interreligious exposure visit included the mosque at Pilar, the Chamunda Devi Temple at Sulabhat, and St. Lawrence Church at Agasaim, offering participants firsthand experiences of different faith traditions. The evening concluded with a meditation led by Fr. Hilario Fernandes and an interfaith prayer for peace animated by Marisha, followed by a shared meal that fostered deeper connections.

A beach clean-up at Dandi Beach, led by environmentalist Tallulah D’Silva, engaged participants in a “Dialogue of Deeds,” where people of different religions worked together in caring for the environment. Marisha Gonsalves reflected that such collaboration shows how unity can lead to meaningful change for the planet.

Fr. Elvis Fernandes also facilitated a session on reading and reflecting on sacred texts, helping participants appreciate the richness of various religious traditions. A session on eco-spirituality by Fr. Joseph Caji Barretto emphasized the connection between faith and care for creation.

A hands-on experience with mud, guided by Tallulah D’Silva and Ahana Gulwadi, offered a sensory engagement with the earth, deepening participants’ awareness of its sustaining power.

The concluding session, facilitated by Sohana Sarkar, provided space for participants to share their insights and reflections. She noted that the experience transcended religious boundaries and became an exchange of love and care.

Dr. Jonathan Jorge, a participant, described the programme as deeply enriching, saying it strengthened his belief that God is present not only at the altar but also in every person and in nature. Vishal Rawley appreciated the creative inclusivity of the programme, while Swarnjeet Singh described it as meaningful. Varun D’Silva noted that he gained a deeper understanding of how different religions practice their faith and recognized their similarities. Shravani Matodkar observed that sitting together, sharing meals, and exchanging stories can significantly build unity. Shakiba expressed her joy, saying that visiting a mosque, church, and temple was something she had always desired.