Participants of the national-level training programme on ‘Religious Leaders as Peace Builders and Facilitators of Dialogue,’ organised by Lead Academy in collaboration with NEISSR and Peace Channel on July 18. (Photo Courtesy: NEISSR)DIMAPUR, JULY 21 (MExN): Religious leaders have a responsibility to serve as bridge-builders by promoting respect for diversity, addressing divisions and fostering dialogue in an increasingly polarised society, participants at a national-level training programme were told. Delivering the inaugural address, Fr VM Thomas highlighted the role of religious leaders in facilitating dialogue, particularly in conflict-affected regions such as North East India. Fr Dr further stressed the role of religious leaders as bridge-builders, particularly in addressing social divisions and promoting respect for diversity. He encouraged the participants to foster a culture of peace and dialogue within families, parishes, educational institutions and the wider community.