Vatican City: Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad has called on religious communities to work together to promote peace, justice, and human fraternity, saying that the idea of fraternity is not an unrealistic dream but a practical necessity in a world increasingly divided by conflict, violence, and social tensions.
Speaking at the opening of an international conference in Rome on Monday, the Cardinal highlighted the important role that different faith traditions can play in building stronger relationships and fostering mutual understanding. The event, titled “Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs in Europe: Building fraternity through dialogue and collaboration,” is being held at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas and brings together representatives of several religious communities from across Europe.
Cardinal Koovakad, who serves as Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, said many people today view fraternity as a utopian concept. However, he stressed that the need for human solidarity has become even more urgent at a time when the world faces wars, violence, discrimination, hatred, and growing social divisions.
He pointed out that humanity is witnessing numerous challenges that threaten peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. In this context, he said, dialogue among people of different faiths and cultures is essential for overcoming barriers and creating a more united society.
The Cardinal also recalled the lasting influence of the “Spirit of Assisi,” the historic gathering for peace initiated by Saint John Paul II in 1986. As the Catholic Church prepares to mark the 40th anniversary of the World Day of Prayer for Peace and the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi, Cardinal Koovakad noted that the saint remains a powerful symbol of universal brotherhood and peace.
He said Saint Francis inspired the vision of human fraternity promoted by Pope Francis in the encyclical *Fratelli Tutti*, which calls for greater solidarity among peoples and nations.
Reflecting on the teachings of Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Koovakad emphasized the importance of building bridges between believers and all people of goodwill. He said the Pope views fraternity as a lived reality that is stronger than differences, tensions, and conflicts. According to the Cardinal, cultural traditions, religious beliefs, and social differences should be seen as opportunities for mutual enrichment rather than sources of division.
Turning to Europe, Cardinal Koovakad described the continent as a place with a rich cultural and religious heritage shaped by centuries of interaction among diverse peoples. He noted that migration, globalization, demographic changes, and economic developments have transformed Europe into a vibrant mix of ethnicities, languages, and religious traditions.
This diversity, he said, should be valued and protected. Building inclusive, harmonious, and cohesive societies requires respect for the dignity and rights of every person, including the freedom to profess and practice one's religion.
The Cardinal encouraged both long established residents and newer communities in Europe to work together for the common good. He stressed that cultural, religious, and social diversity should never be viewed as a threat but rather as a source of human richness and strength.
He said that meaningful encounters among people of different faiths can deepen mutual respect, strengthen friendship, and inspire greater cooperation in addressing the needs of society. Through regular dialogue and collaboration, communities can build trust and contribute positively to the welfare of all people.
Concluding his address, Cardinal Koovakad echoed Pope Leo XIV's appeal for greater cooperation among religious groups in defending peace and justice. He said dialogue, collaboration, and social friendship are essential foundations for building human fraternity in an age marked by growing fragmentation and polarization.
Expressing hope for the conference, he said the gathering would help participants develop stronger relationships based on respect, solidarity, trust, and fraternity, while identifying practical ways to work together for a more peaceful and united future.