Catholic bishops’ president calls for healing and goodwill at Eid  

Cardinal Anthony Poola calls for breaking divisions and building fraternity, urging compassion and solidarity amid global conflict, unrest and suffering in Eid al-Fitr message.

NEW DELHI (Indian Catholic News) —The president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India has in an Eid al-Fitr message appealed for unity, urging people to break divisions and build bridges of fraternity, healing and goodwill.

Addressing Muslims across the country, Cardinal Anthony Poola of Hyderabad in his March 20 message wrote: “Dear Muslim brothers and sisters, on this joyous education of I extend Eid al-Fitr my most heartfelt greetings to each one of you on behalf of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India and the entire Catholic community across our beloved nation.”

This year, Eid al-Fitr in India will be celebrated on March 21.

Highlighting the spiritual meaning of the festival, Cardinal Poola said: “Eid al-Fitr marking the culmination of the holy month of Ramadan holds profound significance as a time of deep spiritual renewal intense prayer and joyful celebration.”

He added that the celebration “stands as a powerful witness to the enduring values of sacrifice profound compassion and unwavering unity.”

Cardinal Poola also pointed to global challenges, saying: “Today, we find ourselves in a world facing unprecedented challenges. Amidst global conflicts, social unrest and the silent suffering of the vulnerable, the true spirit of Eid al-Fitr urgently reminds us of the critical importance of extending compassion towards others.”

He called for collective action, urging: “Together we must strive to break down the walls of division prejudice and hatred that fracture humanity and actively build bridges of fraternity healing and enduring goodwill,” he added.

Cardinal Poola expressed hope for peace and shared progress, saying: “May this festive season bring you your families and your local communities immense joy lasting peace and abundant prosperity.”