From April 16 to 21, 2026, “Meditation, Dialogue, and Practices of Peace in Uncertain Times” will take place between Padua and Camposampiero. The programme will include study days, a workshop, and a retreat dedicated to the dialogue between Buddhist and Christian traditions.
The initiative offers a space for reflection and practice around the themes of meditation, silence, listening, and peace, in a time marked by uncertainty and transformation.
The event is promoted by the Higher Institute of Religious Sciences of Padua and the Theological Faculty of Triveneto, with the support of Monastic Interreligious Dialogue and in collaboration with the International Buddhist Studies College in Bangkok, the UBI Research Center, and the Master’s Programme in Contemplative Studies at the University of Padua.
The first two days will take place in Padua. On Thursday, April 16, at the Theological Faculty of Triveneto, the study day “Meditation and Public Space: Buddhist and Christian Perspectives” will be held. On Friday, April 17, at the Higher Institute of Religious Sciences of Padua, the dialogue will continue with a second day dedicated to experiences and reflections on engagement in the public sphere. Ven. Dr. Neminda and Ven. Dr. Phramaha Weerasak, two monks from the International Buddhist Studies College in Bangkok, will also be present in Italy for the occasion.
The programme will continue on Saturday, April 18, and Sunday, April 19, at Oasi S. Antonio in Camposampiero, with the workshop “Meditation and Breath, Silence and Peace”, alternating moments of reflection with Christian and Buddhist meditation practices. Finally, on Monday, April 20, and Tuesday, April 21, a residential retreat will be held, dedicated to the practice of silence, listening, and meditation in dialogue between the two traditions.
The study days on April 16 and 17 are free and open to all, with registration recommended by April 13. The talks by the Thai guests will be held in English with Italian translation. Information on the workshop, retreat, participation fees, and registration is available on the website of the ISSR of Padua.
