Columban Interreligious Dialogue » Social Issues

Social Issues

Believers from different religions share the same planet. We live, work and play side-by-side in cities and towns and villages. We enjoy the same sunshine, rain and fruits of the earth. We suffer the same drought, storm and flood. We have the similar hopes and desires for ourselves and our children. We face the same conflicts, social issues, problems and injustices. Believers and all people of good will are more effective in responding to these challenges and opportunities when we do so together.

Our religions provide common values which unite us in love and service to God, world and neighbour. Our religions also proffer different sensitivities which enrich and deepen our shared responsibility for transforming our world and society in accord with God’s holy purposes. Interreligious dialogue harnesses this spiritual energy for shared commitment to:

working for peace with justice
prophetic challenge to injustice
fostering social harmony
promoting mutual respect
achieving gender equality
cultivating ecological conversion
acting on climate change

Justice

Working for justice is an imperative of all faith communities. It is much more effective when done together. This shared spiritual energy is a vital ingredient in building a just world.

Peace

Our world is torn by violence and warfare. It is urgent that believers from different religions work together as peacemakers. Their dialogue will model and help bring about a culture of peace.

Integrity of Creation

Believers from different religions, inspired by the spiritual resources of their respective faiths, witness to the interrelatedness of all created things and our sacred duty to protect the environment.