Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Zamboanga City (Agenzia Fides) – The “Sisilah” (meaning “chain”) Movement for dialogue, working in an area of the South Philippines where Christian and Muslims live in close contact, have launched a worldwide project to unite people of various cultures, religions, and traditions in dialogue, in a “Life in dialogue.”
The commitment to “Life in dialogue” was reaffirmed by the new President of the Movement, Aminda Sano, in describing the various initiatives and formation courses proposed by “Sisilah” at the “Harmony Village” in Zamboanga, and in other cities on the island of Mindanao.
As Mindanao faces a conflict between autonomist Islamic groups and the national army, the Sisilah Movement has reaffirmed its commitment to “Life in dialogue.” The event was attended by Christian and Muslim leaders, imam, priests and religious, Catholic laity, teachers and catechists, and representatives of social organizations. All of them addressed the fact that peace in Mindanao should begin from the ground up, from the last citizen to the civil, religious, and political leaders.
The encounter was an important moment to come together and share experiences, one in which participants expressed their motivations, convictions, and hopes, along with people of other cultures and religions in mutual respect and with the common desire to establish reconciliation and peace in the varied society of the South Philippines.
“Love for one's neighbor, evident in the act of welcoming and showing charity towards others, is an important characteristic and an admirable synthesis of the kind of life we should live in dialogue,” the Movement's President explained. Sisilah will continue in its work of spreading awareness and offering information to schools and Christian and Muslim institutes, in dialogue with civil authorities. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 21/1/2009)
