Vatican City, Oct 16, 2009 / 08:47 am
Hindus around the world are celebrating the festival of lights known as Deepavali and for the occasion, Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran has written a letter to them calling upon everyone, including political leaders, to work to ensure that human life and religious freedom are protected, thus fostering full human development.
The message sent to Hindus was signed by Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, president of the Pontifical Council for Inter-religious Dialogue, and the council's secretary, Archbishop Pier Luigi Celata.
The letter, published today, is entitled: "Christians and Hindus: Committed to Integral Human Development."
During Deepavali, which is being celebrated this year in October, Hindus light a lamp to thank their gods for their prosperity and the blessing of peace.