Mr. Ashraf Ahmed Shaikh, Secretary-General of Maharashtra United Nations Association ( MUNA) met His Eminence Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad and others in a interfaith programme titled “Pilgrims of Hope – Religions Journeying for Peace,“ the closed-door event brought together leaders from across India’s diverse faith traditions to mark two milestones—the Jubilee Year of Christ in 2025 and the Feast of St Francis of Assisi. Both occasions celebrate themes of renewal, fraternity, and peace—values that resonate far beyond the boundaries of Christianity. The programme took place at St. Andrew’s Auditorium, Bandra West in Mumbai on Saturday, 04 October, 2025, evening between 5pm to 8pm.

After the interfaith meet, glittering performances, skit, chorus, devotional songs and presentations from almost all the religious representatives, Mr. Ashraf Ahmed Shaikh said,

“An absolute honour to meet and listen to His Eminence Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, the youngest Cardinal in the world, appointed by Pope Francis, who serves as Prefect of the Dicastery for Inter-Religious Dialogue, during his visit to Mumbai. The Vatican sent Cardinal Koovakad to Mumbai for an interfaith gathering promoting peace, involving diverse religious leaders and creative expressions.”

Apart from all religious leaders, there was a participation of people from all walks of life with a message of harmony and peace .