Inauguration of PISTIS
PISTIS, the Greek term for faith and, also, the acronym of "Peace Initiatives for Social Transformation & Interfaith Solidarities," is an initiative from Socio and Economic Concerns Committee of the Karnataka Central Diocese, in collaboration with the CSI-Social Empowerment: Vision in Action (SEVA).
This Peace Centre was launched at Goodwill Christian College for Women on April 14, 2023 at 4.30 pm by the Rt. Rev. Dr. Prasana Kumar Samuel, Bishop in KCD, through the unveiling of the commemorative plaque in the presence of the Diocesan Officers, Rev. M. Benjamin Inbaraj the Director of CSI-SEVA, Mr. Praveen Daniel, the Programme Executive and other dignitaries.
Rev. Navin K John was the compere for the programme, which began with a word of prayer by Rev. Dr. Dexter Maben, the Vice President of KCD. The students of Goodwill Christian College for Women rendered a special song, which was followed by a brief video presentation about ‘PISTIS.’
The Bishop affirmed that the peace of God is distinct from the peace of this world. He emphasized on the Biblical directive to treat others as one would like to be treated by them. He gave a clarion call to the Peace Centre to be a hub of reconciliation in conflict zones.
Rev. M. Benjamin Inbaraj reiterated that the CSI Synod has always placed a great priority on promoting peace. He added that local communities of peace are necessary to counter religious fanaticism. He encouraged the Centre to initiate discussions/debates about the Indian Constitution and Democratic Citizenship.
Rev. Dr. Y. T. Vinayaraj, Director, of CISRS delivered the guest lecture on the theme: "Ambedkar and Peace: Interpreting his Philosophy for the Contemporary Indian Context." This session was moderated by Rev. Christopher Samuel, the Assistant Secretary of the Diocese and Chairperson of SEC. Dr. Vinayaraj reiterated that peace is possible only when justice is available for all and reconciliation, compassion, respect and affirmation of life are practiced.
He opined that Dr. Ambedkar decried Caste as a destructive, violent social structure that renders a certain section of people as lesser than humans. Therefore, challenging caste is a prerequisite for ensuring peace, justice and democracy in India. He added that Ambedkar’s philosophy of Religion is the practice of social morality. In the Contemporary Indian context of majoritarian communalism, neo-capitalism & neo-populism, Ambedkar challenges the local churches to evolve as communities of peace and justice which will create self-respect movements, neighborhood peace communities, networks of peace initiatives, inter-religious/ inter-ideological forums for combating violence & ensuring peace and justice. After his presentation, an engaging question and answer session ensued during which a great deal of thought-provoking conversations emerged.
In his closing remarks, the Bishop encouraged PISTIS to be a Centre where dialogue will be initiated among people, groups, and communities. He added that the Centre will facilitate education, awareness, advocacy, activism, interfaith activities and celebration of art/culture.
Rev Rachel Sudarshan, the Convener of SEC, proposed the vote of thanks, followed by closing prayer by Rev. Sudhakar Joshua. The SEC Committee records its gratitude to Dr. Sujatha Christopher and Mr. Samson Arun Prem Kumar, the Principal and Treasurer, respectively, of Goodwill Christian College for Women for their hospitality/physical arrangements.
