Religious leaders from Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity across Asia have paid tribute to the late Pope Francis’ commitment to interfaith dialogue, describing his legacy as a guiding light for unity and compassion in a region marked by diversity.
The remarks were made during an online roundtable hosted last week by the Asian Research Center for Religion and Social Communication (ARC), based at St. John’s University in Bangkok.
The forum, titled “Pope Francis’ Legacy of Interfaith Dialogue in Asia”, brought together faith leaders and scholars to reflect on the late pontiff’s dialogue-centered approach, especially in the context of Asia’s pluralistic societies.
Fr. Anthony Le Duc, SVD, ARC executive director and moderator of the discussion, opened the event by noting the timeliness of the gathering in light of Pope Francis’ passing and the recent election of Pope Leo XIV.
“We meet at a significant moment,” Fr. Le Duc said. “Pope Francis reminded us that dialogue is not simply a diplomatic tool but a sacred journey of encounter, deep listening, and walking together across difference.”
Representing the Buddhist community, Thai Zen scholar Dr. Peter Chaiyasena praised Pope Francis’ humility and his consistent appeal, “Please pray for me,” which, he said, symbolized his openness and sincerity.
He described the pope’s 2019 apostolic visit to Thailand as “no less than a journey of a true and ancient friend of the Thai Nation,” emphasizing how the visit strengthened relations between the Catholic Church and the Thai Sangha.
From Indonesia, Dr. Kamaruzzaman Bustamam Ahmad of Universitas Islam Negeri reflected on Pope Francis’ engagement with the Muslim world.
Speaking during the week of Eid al-Adha, he highlighted the pontiff’s advocacy for shared humanitarian values and referenced the 2024 “Istiqlal Declaration,” issued during the pope’s visit to Indonesia, which promoted interreligious harmony and environmental responsibility.
“The pope’s legacy is one of compassion, humility, and unity,” Dr. Kamaruzzaman said. “His ability to inspire hope across communities and faiths is a powerful reminder that we are all linked as one human family.”
Participants agreed that Pope Francis played a pivotal role in advancing interreligious dialogue in Asia, particularly through his pastoral visits, inclusive language, and firm stance on ecological and social justice.
As the region grapples with challenges ranging from religious polarization to climate change, speakers expressed hope that the vision fostered under Francis will continue under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV.
