India, Sept. 28 -- As the Catholic Church and the Franciscan Congregations celebrate the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi's passing, it is appropriate to reflect on how his message can soothe a communally wounded India. Living in 13th-century Europe during the height of the Crusades, St. Francis encountered a world deeply polarised by religious warfare, political tribalism, and extreme socio-economic inequality. India's present socio-political scenario shares similarities and differences with St. Francis's time. Hence, any reflection must take both into account and consider how his message applies to India's present situation.

Religion-Based Conflicts Religion-based conflicts are not new to India. The biggest communal conflagr...