Iyengar Yoga & Christianity Conference in Goa
11 – 14 January 2026
In August 2024 the first Yoga & Christianity conference was held in Lantershofen, Germany, bringing together leaders in their respective fields to exchange views on these two profound traditions.
Three wonderful days followed with practice, presentations, discussion over meals, and time to absorb the beauty of the rural landscape. The event was organised by Alan Goode and Rita Keller and hosted by Light on Yoga. Presenters included Fr Joe Pereira, Ravi Ravindra, Dr Anna Paul and Dr Marburg.
In January 2026 we are pleased to continue the Yoga & Christianity dialogue as we meet again in Goa, India to meet with old friends and hear new perspectives. Both Yoga and Christianity are practices that filter into the lives of their practitioners and we meet to deepen the dialogue hosted by the Kripa Foundation centre in Goa, where Fr Joe Pereira offers a holistic recovery model for addiction, blending 12-step programmes with counselling, meditation, and Iyengar Yoga. His approach addresses both physical and spiritual dimensions of healing. Rooted in compassion and discipline, the centre provides a supportive environment for individuals to rebuild trust, gain self-awareness, and restore wholeness.
Rita Keller
born 1952, 4 children,
Yoga since 1970 and Iyengar Yoga since 1974. Advanced Teacher (certified by B.K.S. Iyengar). Director: Light on Yoga® Academy, authorized 1994 by B.K.S. Iyengar, Education of teachers and Yoga therapists.
The main aim of Yoga is According to Keller: The main aim of Yoga is established in the 2nd sutra of Patanjali’s Yoga sutras:”Yoga’s chitta vritti nirodhah” I.2., i.e.: “Yoga is the cessation of the fluctuation of the mind.” This is brought about by the practice of Yoga.
This is also reflected in the Latin phrase “Mens sana in corpore sano“ that translates to „a healthy mind in a healthy body“ in English. It emphasizes the interconnectedness and importance of both physical and mental well-being. The phrase suggests that a sound mind can only exist within a sound body and vice versa. And can also be understood as a state of inner peace and harmony, which physical fitness and mental health can cultivate within individuals.
Keller is also an accomplished author of several books on Yoga and especially on Iyengar Yoga. She is an educator, and her work emphasises the healing potential of Yoga for both body and soul, encouraging practitioners to explore their inner landscapes and cultivate a deeper relationship with God and the divinity inside. Through workshops, retreats, and publications, Keller continues to inspire and guide individuals on their spiritual journeys, demonstrating how the integration of Yoga and Christianity can lead to profound personal growth and spiritual fulfilment.
Her teaching gives evidence of the similarity and connectivity of Christianity and Yoga and uses in a profound and skilful way Body, Mind and Breath for self experience, and as tools for self- understanding, self-healing and self-realization as well as exploring the depth of one’s own abilities and strengths.
Alan Goode
Alan Goode is a highly respected yoga teacher whose work deeply integrates Yoga and spirituality. Based in Canberra, Australia, Goode has been a dedicated practitioner and teacher of Iyengar Yoga for over four decades. His journey into Yoga began in 1975, and he has since become one of the foremost authorities in the Iyengar tradition, known for its emphasis on connecting body, breath, and mind.
Goode’s approach to Yoga transcends the physical practice, delving into its profound spiritual dimensions. He believes that Yoga is not just a set of physical postures but a holistic discipline that fosters inner awareness and spiritual growth. His teachings emphasise the importance of exploring the inner world as we move through the layers of mind, ego and use the intelligence to explore consciousness and the nature of what it is to be human.
As the director of Yoga Mandir in Canberra, Goode has created a refuge for students to explore the depths of their practice. His commitment to teaching is evident in his meticulous and compassionate approach, guiding students through the intricacies of each asana while encouraging them to connect with their inner selves. He regularly communicates with his students, providing insights and updates on upcoming events and classes.
Alan Goode’s contributions to the field of Yoga are profound, inspiring countless individuals to pursue a path of self-study and spiritual evolution. Through his teachings, he continues to illuminate the transformative power of Yoga, helping students integrate its principles into their daily lives.
Fr Joe Pereira
Fr. Joe Pereira is a distinguished figure whose life’s work harmonises the principles of Yoga, addiction recovery, and Christianity. Born in India, Fr. Joe is a Catholic priest deeply committed to social service and spiritual growth. He is the founder of the Kripa Foundation, an internationally recognized organisation dedicated to helping individuals struggling with addiction.
Fr. Joe’s journey into Yoga began under the tutelage of B.K.S. Iyengar, one of the foremost yoga teachers. He seamlessly integrates Iyengar Yoga with Christian spirituality, promoting a holistic approach to healing that addresses the body, mind, and spirit. His unique method, known as Kripa Foundation Iyengar Yoga™, is designed to support individuals in recovery, providing them with tools to regain physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual strength.
His work with the Kripa Foundation has transformed countless lives, offering a path to recovery that is both compassionate and rigorous. Fr. Joe believes in the power of Yoga to aid in the recovery process, helping individuals reconnect with their inner selves and the divine.
Fr. Joe Pereira’s contributions extend beyond addiction recovery. He is a sought-after speaker and educator, sharing his insights on the intersections of Yoga, addiction, and Christianity worldwide. His teachings emphasize the importance of love, compassion, and inner transformation, reflecting the deep spiritual principles that guide his life and work.
Conference: Yoga & Christianity
Bridging practice and faith
FOR PRICES & BOOKING CLICK THE BUTTON BELOW:
Fr. Joe’s Orientation in Goa (22-25 January 2026)
Conference: Yoga & Christianity
Bridging practice & faith
Join us for a transformative and enriching experience at the Yoga & Christianity Conference in Goa, from 11 to 14 January 2026. Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Goa’s picturesque coastal landscape, this exceptional event is designed to bridge the timeless traditions of Yoga with the profound spiritual insights of Christianity. Participants will embark on a journey towards holistic growth, self-discovery, and deeper spiritual understanding.
Organised through a collaboration between Light-On-Yoga. International (LOY.i) and the Kripa Foundation, this gathering promises a rare convergence of diverse spiritual paths.
The conference features an lineup of distinguished teachers and speakers, including Fr Laurence Freeman, globally recognized for his transformative teachings on Christian meditation and inter-religious dialogue; Fr Joe Pereira, the inspirational founder of Kripa Foundation, whose unique method integrates Iyengar Yoga with Christian spirituality and has profoundly impacted lives worldwide; Rita Keller, an acclaimed yoga teacher whose approach deeply engages Yoga’s contemplative and healing dimensions; Alan Goode, a respected figure in Iyengar Yoga, known for his insightful guidance on integrating Yoga’s principles with spiritual development; Dr Humza Muljiani, whose contribution will undoubtedly enrich this spiritual exploration.
Over four insightful days, participants will engage in enlightening presentations, practical and reflective workshops, as well as communal meditative and prayerful practices. Each session aims to illuminate the intersections of asana and pranayama (breathing techniques), meditation practices, and spiritual contemplation. The conference offers an extraordinary opportunity to deepen personal understanding, nurture inner peace, and build meaningful connections with like-minded individuals seeking spiritual depth and harmony.
Participants attending both the workshops and the conference will receive recordings from the previous conference for free.
Prices for the conference:
*We offer prices for the residents of The SAARC countries at a reduced rate. List of SAARC countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
Presenters
Rita Keller
Alan Goode
Fr Joe Pereira
Dr Laurence Freeman
Archbishop Felix Machado
Goa
Accommodation and Catering
Come and immerse yourself in this harmonious blend of Yoga and Christianity, enrich your spiritual practice, and discover new dimensions of personal and spiritual growth in the tranquil and inspiring setting of Goa.
International flights to Goa
The Mopa Airport is the closest, but it is generally accessible via connecting flights through cities like Mumbai, Chennai, or Bangalore. The Dabolim International Airport, on the other hand, offers direct international flight options.
Catering & Accommodation
Accommodation and dining options are available offering comfortable and welcoming environments to support your spiritual retreat. Meals, accommodating dietary requirements including vegetarian and vegan options will further enhance the communal spirit of this gathering.
We will soon publish more details and information on the trip and accommodation.
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