War and Peace: Perspectives on Reconciliation, Dialogue and Human Fraternity
Celebrating the 800th Anniversary of the Transitus of St Francis of Assisi (1226–2026)
On 15th and 16th September 2026, Kristu Jyoti College, Bengaluru, organised a two-day seminar on “War and Peace: Perspectives on Reconciliation, Dialogue and Human Fraternity,” commemorating the 800th anniversary of the Transitus of St Francis of Assisi. The seminar brought together scholars, clergy, students, and guests from diverse faith traditions to reflect on the challenges of conflict and the shared responsibility of building a culture of peace.
Day One: Understanding War and Building Peace
The seminar commenced with a prayer dance by Sr Mary Amala Vilasini OLP and her team, followed by the lighting of the lamp. Dr Sivy Koroth SDB, Principal of Kristu Jyoti College, welcomed the gathering. His Eminence Anthony Cardinal Poola, Metropolitan Archbishop of Hyderabad and President of the CBCI, delivered the keynote address, offering theological and pastoral reflections on global and local conflicts and the Christian commitment to peace. Fr Edwin Kurisinkal SDB, Coordinator of the seminar, introduced the programme.
The academic sessions featured Dr John Richard SDB, who explored the biblical foundations of peace and reconciliation, highlighting the connection between humanity, creation, and human fraternity. Dr Anthony Mahimai Dass SDB examined the concept of “just war,” historical instances of peacemaking by the Church down through the centuries and especially during the Crusades. Both sessions generated lively interaction.
The afternoon panel discussion, “Religions: A Force for Peace,” explored contributions from different religious traditions. Dr Rohan P. Gideon addressed the Christian understanding of peace, while Mr Shoaib Shaikh Umri reflected on the Islamic understanding of peace, highlighting its connection with the Arabic word salaam. Professor Naresh Kumar explored the Hindu perspectives on peace, duty, and harmonious living, drawing insights from its rich spiritual traditions. Mr Vimal Kumar Jain enriched the dialogue with further reflections from Jain traditions. The panel was moderated by Dr Sunil Jose SDB.
Day Two: Towards a Culture of Human Fraternity
The second day began with prayer led by Fr Xavier Francis and his team. Fr Saji P Mathew OFM, Vicar Provincial of the Province of St Thomas the Apostle, reflected on eight centuries of Franciscan peacemaking, emphasising peace and reconciliation as daily commitments inspired by St Francis.
Sr Jacinta Lobo FMA, Coordinator of the Safeguarding Policy of the Sacred Heart Province of the Salesian Sisters, shared experiences from her work with the Child Welfare Committee, highlighting the importance of empowering vulnerable communities. Dr Kuriakose Pallikunnel SDB addressed peace in the digital age, focusing on online hatred, misinformation, and social division.
The afternoon round-table discussion, “Building Communities of Peace,” brought together Mr Anand C., Dr Mary Binu T.D., Mr Cyriac Joseph, Mr A.B. Bosco, and Ms Neffi Marjo R., representing social work, education, business, the lay married community, and youth. The discussion explored the formation of future leaders committed to dialogue and reconciliation.
The seminar concluded with a synthesis by Fr Jerin Palatty SDB and a vote of thanks by Dn Isaiah Newme SDB. The gathering ended with the hymn “Make Me a Channel of Your Peace,” followed by tea and fellowship.
A Fitting Tribute
Eight hundred years after the Transitus of St Francis of Assisi, his message of peace, humility, reconciliation, and fraternity continues to inspire a divided world. Through scholarly presentations, interreligious dialogue, and meaningful discussions, Kristu Jyoti College offered a valuable opportunity to reflect on the shared responsibility of building peaceful communities.
The seminar reaffirmed that peace is nurtured through justice, compassion, mutual respect, and dialogue. It concluded with a renewed commitment to the Franciscan vision of becoming instruments of peace and builders of a more fraternal world.
