Inter-religious Mediterranean conference was “an opportunity to listen, learn, and foster dialogue”

Two Maltese youths, Mark and Gulia, participated in MED24, an inter-religious conference held in Tirana, Albania, in September. Around 50 young people from all five shores of the Mediterranean attended this meeting that brought together individuals of different backgrounds and focused on fostering a culture of inter-religious dialogue and fraternity to create a more peaceful and just society.

The conference’s main theme revolved around the importance of inter-religious dialogue in the Mediterranean region, with discussions focusing on three key topics: narrative – the personal and collective stories that shape individuals; dialogue – the need for empathic and meaningful dialogue between individuals, cultures and religions; and calling – a call to action to counter injustice and promote peace. The programme included discussions with various bishops, including Malta’s Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi, and other participants as well as meaningful moments of prayer.

Mark explained how the visits to Tirana city centre, as well as visits to Shkodër, Fier and Berat, allowed them to understand the rich history of Albania involving different religions living in communion and fraternity.

He described the experience as “an opportunity to actively listen to my Mediterranean colleagues, understand more about their perspectives and culture and learn new skills relating to meaningful dialogue. The sense of fraternity and togetherness I experienced at these meetings felt truly spiritual. It was clear evidence of the strength of putting aside our differences and finding a common way forward through dialogue.”