Each presentation will be followed by questions & answers from the audience. It is anticipated that these talks will be held every four months and cover all the faiths / religions comprising Sifco. Sifco consists of members of different faith-based organisations striving for interfaith dialogue. As the ‘Moral & Spiritual’ voice of the Nation Sifco’s objective is to promote understanding, cooperation and unity within the interfaith groups since they share the same core spiritual values – peace, love, purity, harmony – and the nation at large. Sifco also aims to take a common stance on issues in order to promote the holistic and integrated development of every human being in Seychelles and address all forms, causes and effects of oppression that hinder the development and progress with all stakeholders. The current memberships of Sifco are the following: the Roman Catholic; Anglican Church; Baha’i Faith; Islamic Centre for Information and Guidance; Hindu Council of Seychelles; Seychelles Hindu Kovil Sangam; Orthodox Church; …

On the occasion of Interfaith Harmony week held annually from February 1-7, and first announced by the United Nations in 2012, SIFCO (Seychelles Interfaith Council) recognises the need for dialogue among different faiths and religions in order to promote mutual understanding. “This constitutes an important dimension of a culture of peace and harmony between all people, regardless of their faith,” says Sifco in a message to mark the week. The message reads: “We encourage everyone, during this week, to spread the message of interfaith harmony and goodwill in the churches, mosques, temples and other places of worship, each according to their own religious traditions or convictions. “For inter-religious dialogue to be effective, we need to progress beyond mere tolerance to mutual respect and friendship. An understanding and appreciation of the basic teachings and principles of the world religions will lead to the realisation that despite how varied our different beliefs, traditions and practices are, they all rest on the foundation …