The Vaishnava-Christian Dialogue

A Quarter-Century of Interfaith Engagement in Washington, D.C.

Abstract

This article reflects on 26 years of annual Vaishnava-Christian dialogues in the Washington, D.C., area, framed by the broader context of interreligious engagement post-Vatican II. The author, a Benedictine monk and participant in these dialogues, outlines four forms of interfaith practice: (1) theological reflection (e.g., comparative discussions on concepts like "Mother of God"), (2) shared religious experience (joint prayer services blending kirtan and Taizé chants), (3) cooperative action (e.g., social justice initiatives), and (4) the "dialogue of life" (everyday mutual respect). The piece highlights a 2014 dialogue on divine motherhood, contrasting Vaishnava narratives of Yasoda’s love for Krishna with Christian veneration of Mary as Theotokos, while emphasizing the transformative power of ritual exchanges (e.g., Christian Kyrie paired with Hare Krishna kirtan). Despite focusing primarily on intellectual and experiential dialogue, the article acknowledges the potential for deeper collaboration in justice work and grassroots solidarity, underscoring the enduring need for interfaith humility in a fractured world.