India: Religious leader lauds late Delhi archbishop’s contribution to interreligious dialogue

In a tribute to the late Archbishop Angelo Innocent Fernandes, the former Archbishop of Delhi, the Culture of Peace Alliance hosted an interfaith relations meeting on December 10, 2024, at the YMCA Hostel, Ashoka Place, New Delhi.

The event celebrated Archbishop Fernandes's enduring legacy in fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse religious traditions.

The program was led by Captain Pradeep Singh, with invaluable support and guidance from Mr. Anshu Antony. Distinguished participants included Pastor Emmanuel Sahai, Ms. Alka Ahuja, Ms. Clara, Pastor Deepak, Ms. Nisha Chaudhary, Fr. Norbert Herman, SVD, Ms. Mary Grace, Mr. Rajendra Kumar, Mr. Venkat from Hyderabad, Ms. Jennifer from Vasai Diocese Mumbai, and Mr. Varun Sharma, whose collective presence underscored the gathering’s commitment to interfaith harmony.

Fr. Norbert Herman, the chief guest of the event, delivered an inspiring keynote address titled “Jesus, the Prince of Peace.” His speech highlighted the universal message of peace embodied in Jesus Christ and paid homage to Archbishop Fernandes for his pioneering contributions to interfaith dialogue, ecumenism, and social justice.

Born on July 28, 1913, in Karachi (now Pakistan), Archbishop Angelo Innocent Fernandes was a trailblazer in promoting peace and understanding among communities.
 

Ordained in 1937 in Bombay, he later served as the cathedral rector before being appointed Archbishop of Delhi in 1967, a role he held until his retirement in 1990.

Fernandes passed away on January 30, 2000, at the age of 86 in New Delhi.

A scholar and visionary, he studied at St. Patrick's School in Karachi, St. Joseph’s Seminary in Mangalore, and the Papal Seminary in Kandy, Sri Lanka. His extensive contributions spanned national and international platforms:

• President of the Catholic International Education Office (1990–1994).
• Executive President of the World Conference on Religion and Peace (1970–1984).
• Chairman of the Office of Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Affairs, Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (1985–1989).
• Chairman of the Justice, Development, and Peace Commission, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (1968–1976, 1986–1990).
• Member of the Vatican Justice and Peace Academy (1966–1976).
• Synod Secretary (1971–1974, 1980–1983).

Throughout his tenure, Archbishop Fernandes championed the causes of justice, education, and interfaith dialogue, leaving an indelible mark on the global Church and society at large.

This interfaith meeting was a testament to his enduring vision of unity in diversity, as attendees from various faiths gathered to celebrate shared values and commit to building a culture of peace.

By bringing together voices from different religious traditions, the event highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing contemporary challenges and fostering understanding in an increasingly divided world.

The legacy of Archbishop Fernandes continues to inspire efforts like this gathering, which seek to realize his dream of a harmonious society rooted in dialogue, respect, and mutual trust.