Pune Diocese organizes peace walk in solidarity with victims of violence in Manipur
Pune, July 09, 2023: Yesterday, a silent peace walk was organized by the Diocese of Poona to show solidarity with the victims of violence in Manipur and other parts of the country. The peaceful rally, which saw the participation of people from various religions and walks of life, commenced at 10 am at the Ornellas School near the YMCA, as reported by Jessan, a Pune resident.
This initiative was a response to the unsettling unrest and riots currently plaguing Manipur and other regions of India. The march was spearheaded by peace-loving Christians and individuals of various faiths. Their collective aim was to advocate for peaceful coexistence, urging people to resolve their differences through dialogue and reconciliation.
The newly appointed Bishop of the Pune Diocese, Rev. John Rodrigues, in his message to the participants, stressed the importance of promoting peace and harmony. He appealed to individuals to move away from anger and hatred. Similarly, former bishop, Rt. Rev. Thomas Dabare, expressed his hopes that this silent march could contribute towards halting the ongoing violence.
The participants of the rally were advised to wear black or a black arm band and to bring their own water bottles. They were also encouraged to use public transport due to the limited parking available at the venue.
The march proceeded from Ornellas High School, Nanapeth to the Collector’s office in a peaceful and prayerful atmosphere. A group of church officials and religious leaders, including Rev. Bishop John Rodrigues, Vicar General of Pune Diocese, Fr. Malcolm Sequeira, Fr. Bhausaheb Sansare, Fr. Stanley, Rev. Fr. Jacob Koshy of Malankara Orthodox Church, and others organized the event. Among the attendees were members of the Christian Youth Organization, priests and religious sisters of the Pune Diocese, and the Ex-Corporator John Paul.
At the Collector’s office, Sister Lizzy of Shanti Ashram read a statement on behalf of the Pune Diocese, while Sister Darshana moderated the entire peace rally. The event concluded on a peaceful note with the singing of ‘Hum Honge Kamiyab’.
This demonstration of solidarity by the residents of Pune serves as a powerful reminder of the collective desire for peace and unity amid times of turmoil. Through initiatives like this peace march, the citizens of India are encouraged to foster harmony throughout the country.
Inputs provided by Jessan, a Pune resident.
