Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Davao (Agenzia Fides) - When it was opened it seemed to be a pioneer initiative destined to encounter many difficulties: ten years on the Ecumenical and Inter-religious Centre in the archdiocese of Davao is an institution appreciated by Christians and Muslims, a point of reference for prayer meetings, peace vigils, as well as cultural debates in Mindanao. On the occasion of the Centre’s 10th anniversary of foundation a special Mass was celebrated in Davao cathedral presided by Archbishop Fernando Capalla of Davao.
In this decade the Centre has helped promote dialogue and solidarity among the local Catholic majority and the Muslim minority. Its goals are to promote a culture of peace by means of ecumenical and inter-religious dialogue.
One important initiative organised by the Centre is the annual Week for Peace in Mindanao to foster social reconciliation, forgiveness and peace. The Centre has excellent relations with heads of other locally present Christian denominations and with the leaders of the main Muslim religious organisations and Muslim civil society organisations.
Its activity is inserted in joint activity by the Catholic community and other religious institutions to foster a spirit of dialogue and political process of talks and negotiations which will hopefully restore lasting and visible peace in the southern Philippines. (PA)(Agenzia Fides 7/2/2007 righe 24 parole241)
