Margao, Sept 14, 2023: A Capuchin priest has called upon Indians to speak out on the current sociopolitical challenges in the country.
“To do so is our responsibility as citizens,” asserted Capuchin Father Suresh Mathew, the editor of Indian Currents, a weekly published from New Delhi.
He was presenting the keynote address at a symposium on ‘Current Socio-Political Scenario in India: A Citizen’s Response,” held at the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol in Goa.
.
The September 9 event, which was aimed at providing a platform for intellectuals, scholars, and citizens to discuss and deliberate upon the pressing socio-political issues in India, was jointly organized by Rachol seminary and the All-India Mission Seminary of Pilar.
Father Mathew speaking on the topic ‘Quo Vadis India?’ (Where are you going, India?) outlined the challenges and complexities of the current socio-political landscape in the country.
After highlighting the current threats to the Indian Constitution, the priest urged Indians to respond proactively in addressing these issues.
Additionally, three more papers were presented during the symposium.
The first paper presented by Saba Da Silva was titled ‘Upholding Art. 25 and Art. 26: Towards a Harmonious and Progressive Nation.’ He enlightened the audience about the freedom of religion upheld in the Indian Constitution.
The second paper, titled ‘Pseudo Nationalism: A Challenge to Secularism in the Goan Context,’ by Father Savio Fernandes explained how in current times fundamentalism is promoted under the guise of nationalism.
The third paper was titled ‘Nation Building: Role of the Church in India,’ presented by Seminarian Frazer Vaz, who highlighted the contribution of the Church in India from independence, braving several challenges and obstacles.
Source: O Herald