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Cardinal Koovakad: Nonviolence is Courageous Commitment to Justice
Cardinal Koovakad links Jain nonviolence to Christian peace efforts amid global conflict.
In brief
Cardinal Koovakad links Jain nonviolence to Christian peace efforts amid global conflict. Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad says nonviolence is a courageous commitment to justice, not weakness, in a world marked by war and environmental destruction. Originally reported by Vaticannews.
Ahimsa Day Message
Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad spoke at an Ahimsa Day celebration at the British Parliament on Monday, 19 October 2026.
“In a world wounded by war, hatred and environmental destruction, nonviolence is not a sign of weakness but a courageous commitment to justice, reconciliation and peace.”
Ahimsa: Nonviolence Principle
Ahimsa, a Sanskrit term meaning 'not injury', is central to Jain philosophy and avoids harm in thought, word and deed.
“Ahimsa calls for respect for every form of life and a commitment to avoiding harm wherever possible.”
Gandhi and Nonviolence
Mahatma Gandhi drew on Jain Ahimsa to develop nonviolent resistance, demonstrating its power for social and political change.
“Through his struggle for India's independence, Gandhi demonstrated how nonviolence could become an active instrument of social and political change.”
Fourty Years of Dialogue
Jain-Catholic relations began in 1986 with Pope John Paul II inviting a Jain spiritual leader to Assisi.
“The invitation marked the beginning of a relationship that would develop through successive encounters.”
Spirit of Assisi
Cardinal Koovakad highlights Saint Francis of Assisi's legacy of peace, simplicity and care for creation.
“Saint Francis, he said, remains an example of peace, simplicity, fraternity and care for creation.”
Building Bridges
Religious communities should cooperate without abandoning identities to address global conflicts and ecological crises.
“The Jain, Catholic dialogue must become such a bridge, connecting communities, educating young people, defending the dignity of life.”
Final Appeal
Cardinal Koovakad urged religious groups to disarm hearts and walk together in the spirit of Ahimsa.
“May we disarm our hearts and walk together in the noble spirit of Ahimsa!”
Here's the gist
Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad says nonviolence is a courageous commitment to justice, not weakness, in a world marked by war and environmental destruction.
