Interfaith and Theological Dialogue
Shaunaka Rishi Das, by way of an invitation to the International Colloquium of Christians and Jews, was introduced to the world of inter-religious dialogue, in 1985, by the then Chief Rabbi of Ireland, Rabbi David Rosen. From that time he developed a personal interest, and played an active part in such dialogue. He was an early member of the Northern Ireland Interfaith Forum, acting as its Chairman from 1998 to 2002. From 2002 -2004 he was a trustee and executive member of The Interfaith Network UK, and from 1998-2004 acted as a consultant to the International Interfaith Centre, Oxford.
Rishi Das has been a pioneer in promoting interfaith and comparative theological dialogue in his own community. As the first Convenor of the ISKCON Interfaith Commission (1997–2010) he led the consultation which resulted in the publication of ISKCON's Statement on Relating with People of Faith in God, which has been translated into six languages, and forms part of the course curriculum at Bhaktivedanta College, Belgium.
This Interfaith statement was a significant step for ISKCON, addressing issues of integration in a global society, as well as laying out a clear theological basis for dialogue. It has also been recognised as a pioneering statement from any Hindu tradition, advocating informed engagement with others over presenting a position of policy to others. Responses to the document noted its importance in addressing modern issues while keeping with the integrity of the ancient tradition.
But we Christians may also recognise a new factor, namely that ISKCON is the first global Vaisnava movement that is just now coming to understand its vocation to enable Westerners to understand Indian philosophy and spirituality. — Rev. Kenneth Cracknell
He has also been responsible for facilitating various conferences, seminars, and symposia promoting Vaishnava-Christian dialogue at different levels. He was instrumental, along with his colleagues, Anuttama Das, and Rukmini Devi Dasi in launching the annual Vaishnava-Christian conferences, held in Washington DC, since 1997.
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