Bishop Felix Machado is a strong advocate of interreligious dialogue. This is proven by the friendship he has with numerous leaders of various religions, among which is that with the great Hindu scholar, Dr. Kala Acharya.  These two speak of and refer to each other as “my brother Felix” and “my sister Kala,” in confirmation of the deep relationship which has led them to consider universal brotherhood as a point in common. How do you explain your propensity for dialogue? «I was raised in a rural and cosmopolitan culture. Vasai, in fact, the current seat of my ministry is also my birthplace. After studying theology in France and the United States, from 1999 to 2008 I served at the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue in the Vatican. There I acquired many elements on this matter and understood that the key lies in establishing real and authentic relationships with the people who differ from us. Thus, even if I am a leader and scholar or a simple farmer or fisherman, it is my duty as a Christian to see each one as a brother or sister in Christ.  True dialogue may arise only from deep listening and acceptance of the other, and then, if necessary, one can offer one’s ideals as a gift. That’s why I appreciate the interreligious work undertaken by the Focolare Movement here in India. It is an action based on authenticity, trust and good will with our Hindu brothers and sisters.» After her journey in India at the start of the year, Maria Voce, President of the Focolare, recounted that you had welcomed her very warmly. «It was my pleasure to welcome her to my diocese of Vasai, and to recall with her the first contacts I had with the Movement through the two focolarine who worked in the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. I had been impressed by the great love they put in the most simple jobs they performed. It aroused my interest and I desired to know more about the Focolare, and soon I had the privilege to meet Chiara Lubich. She was simple and direct and believed in unity. She offered the path of unity to humanity, through the church. She remained deeply faithful to it and worked for unity of the human family. I was happy to see how in India the Focolare is bringing ahead this legacy through dialogue among religions, cultures and generations.» In the light of the many challenges the human family has to face in various parts of the world, how vital is it to pursue the path of dialogue? «It is a process that requires time and dedication, and at times dialogue may seem useless when we encounter episodes of violence, poverty and social discrimination. But it is not so. Personally I try to draw inspiration from Pope John XXIII, who used to kneel in prayer after a long and difficult day saying: “Lord, I’ve done my best. This is Your Church, now it is you in command.” As human beings it is our duty to be similar to Christ in loving, forgiving and continuing to believe in universal brotherhood also, and above all when all seems inadequate to resolve the current problems. We must remember that we cannot impose our idea of time on God.» Interview by Annabel D’Souza