tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58379729003445686432011-07-07T16:16:58.098-07:00Building bridges of interfaith co-operation and understandingURI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.comBlogger1111100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-4728311591353392012011-06-05T23:48:00.000-07:002011-06-09T23:53:49.486-07:00

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SEAPac Cooperation Circles Celebrate the International Day of PeaceC.O.M.M.O.N. Australia organized 2 major events in September!The Partners for Peace Malaysia (PfPM), to which INSAF (Interfaith Spiritual Fellowship) Kuala Lumpur is a part, led an advanced celebration of the International Day of Peace through a Peace Treasure Hunt, Dinner at Taiping and a Peace Summit from September 18-19, 2010

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Global Celebration of 10th Anniversary of URI Charter SigningUnited Religions Initiative (URI), one of the largest and internationally acclaimed interfaith organizations, commemorated the 10th anniversary of its Charter signing with a moving celebration at the Royal Cultural Center in Amman, Jordan on June 26, 2010. The occasion was attended by the URI Global Trustees, Staff, representatives of

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-4337062703569435362010-01-18T21:31:00.001-08:002010-01-18T21:31:53.837-08:00

Newsletter Vol 2 2009 Final

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-7803610513115987252009-06-24T18:38:00.000-07:002009-07-14T01:04:14.524-07:00

URI SEAPac Newsletter 2009 Volume 1 Jan-June

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-33286585324852102902009-05-03T18:43:00.000-07:002011-05-17T22:29:50.076-07:00

May 3, 2009The birth of an idea arising from a needIn April 2009 United Religions Initiative (URI) in Southeast Asia-Pacific (SEAPac) took its first steps towards actively engaging in the endeavor of realizing its vision of peace, justice and healing in the region and began to help build bridges of friendship and solidarity with a group of grassroots Muslim, Christian and indigenous leaders of

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March 16-21, 2009/ Lanao del Norte, PhilippinesDay 0: First GatheringOn Sunday March 15, the SEAPac Regional staff and CC representatives arrived in Tubod, Lanao del Norte in Mindanao Philippines for the longest regional assembly and meeting so far. Combined with the Bowes Awarded 2-Day Leadership Training Program and the Moral Imagination Workshop and Forum, the 5th Regional Assembly was set to

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Contents:PILGRIMS OF PEACE gathered for the URI GLOBAL ASSEMBLY in MAYAPUR, INDIA <?xml:namespace prefix = m />The United Religions Initiative (URI) held its second Global Assembly (GA08) on November 27th to December 5th, 2008 in Mayapur, West Bengal, India. The much-anticipated event brought together in one unprecedented grassroots global gathering some 200 global interfaith leaders and around

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-87967881481096744682009-01-14T01:00:00.001-08:002009-01-19T02:42:20.714-08:00

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-17325137451695543522009-01-14T00:14:00.000-08:002009-01-19T02:35:07.719-08:00

Last September, in the Southeast Asia Pacific region, the desire for lasting peace in the conflict-prone Mindanao region of the Philippines motivated the Peacemakers’ Circle to take the lead in bringing together peace advocates in Manila in support of those adversely affected by the conflict that had flared up in the wake of the aborted signing of the of the Memorandum of Agreement on the

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-58116841905442711152009-01-13T23:40:00.000-08:002009-01-14T00:09:39.836-08:00

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URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-56050808465571938172009-01-13T23:03:00.000-08:002009-01-14T00:58:58.561-08:00

FAITHS IN HARMONY SOWING PEACE THROUGH PRAYERS, LIGHTS AND SOUNDSThe Peacemakers’ Circle Foundation, Inc. (PCFI) and the United Religions Initiative Southeast Asia & the Pacific (URI-SEAP) Regional Office joined forces with the Sowing Peace for Mindanao network* in organizing a back-to-back peace event in Quezon City, Metro Manila on Saturday September 20, 2008, eve of the UN International Day

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MANILA, PHILIPPINES -- An historic event took place in Metro Manila on Thursday October 2, 2008. About 30 motorcyclists and 12 vehicles carrying colored flaglets and banners of the Sowing Peace for Mindanao network drove through the streets in a Peace Caravan that called for a more intensified campaign for awareness and solidarity for the growing number of people affected by the conflict in

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-55175614862950708292009-01-13T22:23:00.000-08:002009-01-14T00:59:43.644-08:00

MANILA, PHILIPPINES— The Peacemakers' Circle Foundation, Inc. (PCFI) CC, with the support of the Australian Embassy's Strengthening Grassroots Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding (SGIDU) Program, has been conducting a GRASSROOTS LEADERSHIP TRAINING WORKSHOP ON MUSLIM-CHRISTIAN DIALOGUE in four communities in Metro Manila since June 2008. The participating communities are: Maharlika Village in

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-66110617994188609502009-01-13T21:43:00.000-08:002009-01-14T00:56:27.574-08:00

MANILA, PHILIPPINES-- The Peacemakers' Circle CC, with the help of its network of partners in SOWING PEACE FOR MINDANAO (SPM), the U.S. Embassy in Manila, and the Mindanao Peoples' Caucus, successfully followed up the series of projects and activities they conducted (from August to October) with a dialogue workshop-forum last October 23, 2008. This was entitled: IN SEARCH FOR PEACE IN MINDANAO:

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-82094920340989242832009-01-13T20:32:00.000-08:002009-01-13T21:42:41.802-08:00

Cebu holds big International Day of Peace 2008 celebrationCEBU, PHILIPPINES— On September 19, 2008 (Friday), Kalinaw (“peace”) CC collaborated with the University of Cebu’s Civic Welfare Training Service - National Service Training Program (CWTS-NSTP) and the Advocates of Living Values Education (ALIVE) in organizing one of the biggest UN International Day of Peace celebration in the SEAP region.

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-18023425576204064172009-01-13T20:07:00.000-08:002009-01-18T22:49:11.591-08:00

CEBU YOUTH CCs ENGAGE IN PRAYERS FOR MINDANAO ON PEACE DAYReported by Jaimini dasi AranetaCEBU, PHILIPPINES-- Youth for Peace (Prayers for Mindanao) was a very successful and very heartwarming event for all the participating youths. Giving, Respect, Opportunity, Wisdom, Transcendence & Harmony (GROWTH) CC, in cooperation with Mugna Kabataan (“youth…create!”) CC and supported by the Kalinaw CC,

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-45406721699223927522009-01-13T19:39:00.000-08:002009-01-13T20:07:15.546-08:00

Pakigdait CC Leads the 27th International Day of PeaceLANAO DEL NORTE, Mindanao -- The civil society organisations of Iligan City and Lanao del Norte gave recognition to a member of the peace panel, Prof. Rudy Rodil, at the celebration of the International Day of Peace (IDP). The network of civil society organisations of Iligan City and Lanao del Norte, through the initiative of Pakigdait, Inc.

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-37161114429712301162009-01-13T01:57:00.000-08:002009-01-13T18:37:10.299-08:00

<?xml:namespace prefix = v /><?xml:namespace prefix = o /><?xml:namespace prefix = w />International Day of Peace – Malaysia.PETALING JAYA & TAIPING, MALAYSIA--The 2008 International Day of Peace is commemorated in Malaysia in many fronts. In one of these celebrations the Interfaith Spiritual Fellowship (INSaF)/KLCC, and Malaysian Interfaith Network CC, joined partners--the Service Civil

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-50093670457978809182009-01-13T01:49:00.000-08:002009-01-13T01:56:08.577-08:00

Sharing our Space: Multi-faith Healing Conference held by COMMON CCHeld: 21st September 2008: 1:30 pm – 4:30 pmVenue: Aboriginal Advancement League, 2 Watt Street, Thornbury, VictoriaVICTORIA, AUSTRALIA-- In celebration of the UN International Day of Peace 2008 Center for Melbourne Multifaith and Others Network (COMMON) CC successfully organized the annual MULTI-FAITH WEEK that kicked off with a

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-3880337991677192152009-01-13T01:24:00.000-08:002009-01-18T21:15:53.960-08:00

The Bowes Awards were established by the URI to recognize and catalyze innovation and cooperation among Cooperation Circles and the individuals and organizations in their communities. CCs are doing amazing interfaith work throughout the URI community, and the Bowes Awards is to lift up model action projects in each of the eight regions, all which embody the Preamble, Purpose and Principles of URI

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-86468509124811527032009-01-13T00:04:00.000-08:002009-01-18T23:08:01.373-08:00

by Marites Africa & Shakun VaswaniAs we take the next steps forward in our journey towards building and strengthening URI in our region, some of us who have journeyed the longest--and have seen how URI in our region has grown through the years-wish to express our gratitude to all the wonderful people in the region who have helped give birth to URI in our part of the world.We recognize MARIO

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a letter from URI Executive Director, REV. CANON CHARLES P. GIBBSDecember 6, 2008Dear Friends,Greetings of love and peace from Mayapur.The Global Assembly that once unimaginably far off is over. The seeds planted here in these two weeks will grow and bear fruit for decades to come. None of the pilgrims who were privileged to pass this time in Mayapur will ever be the same. And neither will URI.

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URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-26969129463408466502008-07-24T23:18:00.000-07:002008-07-27T19:00:03.579-07:00

URISEAP 4th Regional Meeting in Cebu City, Philippines Cebu City-- the jewel city of Philippines—played host to the 4th annual Regional Meeting of the URI Cooperation Circle (CC) leaders/ representatives and trustees of the Southeast Asia-Pacific region. Held on June 5 – 9, 2008 the theme of the gathering this year was: “Strengthening Leadership in the SEAP Region.”Hosted by the Cebu-based

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-76149143857407755162008-07-24T22:28:00.000-07:002008-07-31T19:08:29.167-07:00

by Sr. Sandra G. Clemente, RSCJURI SEAP TrusteeThe Philippines is the only Christian country in Asia and Cebu is a cradle of Catholic faith. To launch an interfaith sector in this part of the Philippines is indeed a historic event. This occasion was celebrated last June 8, 2008 at Fort San Pedro, Cebu City by the interfaith community in the presence of dignitaries from the city gorvernment and

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-24287289929460723872008-07-24T19:53:00.000-07:002008-07-24T21:05:51.929-07:00

by Dr. Amir Farid Bin Dato Isahak URI - SEAP Global TrusteeRecently I was invited to join a group of monks on a study tour of the different cultures and religions in China. We were led by the Most Venerable Master Chin Kung, the Honorary Adviser to the Cheng Ho Multi-Culture Education Trust (CHMCET), which sponsored the trip. The aim was to promote religious harmony and world peace.Apart from the

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-26500424541949843342008-07-24T19:40:00.000-07:002008-07-24T19:52:57.065-07:00

EMBRACING DIVERSITYis an interview section with practitioners of interfaith dialogue. In this issue, we feature Dr. John Gurusamy, an Anglican Christian from Malaysia. He is the coordinator of the Malaysian Interfaith Network (MIN) Cooperation Circle and also a member of the Interfaith Spiritual Fellowship (InSaF) CC.TCC: What is your faith tradition?JG: I am a Christian-Anglican. We believe in

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-23078156546244813112008-07-24T19:17:00.000-07:002008-07-24T19:39:32.914-07:00

Dr. Abdulhusin "Jo" Kashim, presided over a public forum organized by The Peacemakers' Circle CC last February 27, 2008 as the concluding activity under the URI Moral Imagination (MI) grant that was awarded to our Philippine team in August 2007.The forum, entitled "Finding Place for Moral Imagination in the Peace Process in Southern Philippines," was inspired by the conversations that the

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-66232371238696422052008-07-24T18:22:00.000-07:002008-07-24T19:15:44.939-07:00

Assisted by the Australian Embassy’s Strengthening Grassroots Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding (SGIDU) Program, The Peacemakers’ Circle has successfully conducted a series of four (4) three-day intensive training workshops on interfaith dialogue for at least twenty-five (25) Muslim imams in each of the following four major grassroots Muslim communities in Metro Manila:Phase 12 of Baranggay

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-16564748000672171322008-07-24T01:49:00.000-07:002008-07-24T02:36:34.375-07:00

The Imams-Priests Dialogue training project that was conducted by The Peacemakers’ Circle CC (PCFI-CC) in Metro Manila last September-October 2008 under the SGIDU Program inspired the creation of the NATIONAL IMAMS-PRIESTS DIALOGUE FORUM (NIPDF) among its participants. Upon approval from the Australian Embassy of the proposal for the use of the unused funds of the project to support the ongoing

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-86773366510086652712008-07-24T01:11:00.000-07:002008-07-24T01:48:47.654-07:00

The Interfaith Peacebuilding Institute (IPI) has just been successfully launched by The Peacemakers' Circle CC last April at the University Hotel of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City. Two modules of the pilot summer training workshop program on MUSLIM-CHRISTIAN DIALOGUE FOR NATION-BUILDING were conducted with the help of its partners—the Episcopal Commission on

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-75463079554509984162008-07-24T00:44:00.000-07:002008-07-24T01:10:55.822-07:00

Muslim-Christian Livelihood program in full operation On February 13, 2007 the members of the Muslim-Christian Peacemakers' Association (MCPA) CC of Tala, Caloocan City in Metro Manila were awarded the seed capital for their individual livelihood projects.Five thousand pesos were given to each member who have applied and undergone training under the Self-Employment Assistance Kaunlaran (“

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-80141273587347240242008-07-24T00:30:00.000-07:002008-07-25T00:45:25.515-07:00

When the women from different faith traditions on-board a convoy of three vehicles entered the Muslim grassroots community of Salam compound in Barangay Culiat of Quezon City in Metro Manila, they were merely looking forward to seeing again their new-found Muslim sisters and have a simple merry celebration of the Women's Day with them. Little did they know that a sumptuous kanduli ("feast") of

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-22095301839716915262008-07-23T22:44:00.000-07:002008-07-23T22:56:02.302-07:00

On February 9, 2008 (Saturday) the United Religions Initiative Southeast Asia-Pacific (URI-SEAP) Regional Office, in cooperation with The Peacemakers’ Circle Foundation, Inc. gathered 16 youths from different organizations, schools and faith backgrounds for a Youth Orientation on Creating a Culture of Peace through Interfaith Friendships.Held at The Peacemakers’ Interfaith Dialogue Center the

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-62068786189542156862008-07-23T19:24:00.000-07:002008-07-23T20:34:51.681-07:00

Reported by Ms. Marjorie Angalot TRUST, UNDERSTANDING & LEARNING AMONG YOUTH (TULAY) CCI. Outreach at Tagbilaran DumpsiteOn December 2007, the TULAY CC members together with Mr. Boni Quirog of Bohol Goodwill Volunteers CC, visited a dumpsite located at the outskirts of Tagbilaran City. It was not just giving of used clothing and old toys to the grassroots residents but most importantly

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-63976137813928778702008-07-22T19:11:00.000-07:002008-07-23T01:26:00.047-07:00

Maranao Language Program MOA signedLooking at language as a vital ingredient in peacebuilding and dialogue, Pakigdait CC has partnered and signed on February 7, 2008 a Memorandum of Understanding with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) 103rd and 104th Brigades for the Maranao Language Program. This undertaking is an effort to teach the Government soldiers to learn the Maranao language for

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-12188510475325074672008-07-22T18:20:00.000-07:002008-07-22T19:34:48.888-07:00

The Centre of Melbourne Multifaith and Others Network (COMMON) CC had their first meeting for 2008 on Feb.6 (Wednesday) evening. Well attended, well represented and productive, the meeting saw the reelection of their incumbent president, Ms. Jessiee Kaur-Singh, who accepted the post for another two year term.COMMON CC has successfully organized the Multifaith Week festival in celebration of the

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-31370312388909536822008-07-22T01:30:00.000-07:002008-07-22T18:18:22.210-07:00

On June 8, 2008 the historic Fort San Pedro in Cebu City was the setting for the inauguration of the Interfaith Sector in the City with the theme “One in promoting life and integrity of Creation”.More than 150 people representatives from different religious traditions gathered in the afternoon in the beautiful lawns of the Fort to witness the inauguration ceremonies led by the City Mayor, Tomas

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-37243696633262290352008-07-22T01:19:00.000-07:002008-07-22T01:25:24.211-07:00

Message of URI Executive Director, Rev. Charles P. Gibbs for the launching of Cebu’s interfaith sector:8 June 2008Dear Mayor Osmena and Visionary Leaders of Diverse Faiths and Movements,Greetings of love and peace on behalf of the global community of the United Religions Initiative, at work in 67 countries to promote enduring, daily interfaith cooperation, to end religiously motivated violence

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-87163051635582446382008-07-21T23:49:00.000-07:002009-01-11T23:40:02.089-08:00

a letter from URI Executive Director, REV. CANON CHARLES P. GIBBSMay 5, 2008Dear Friends,Greetings of love and peace.It is a joy to share with you the results of the trustee selection process in seven of URI’s eight regions (We expect that voting the Middle East and North Africa region will be completed by June 30th).As you will see from the results below, the twenty-one trustees selected so far

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-55955701514380240562008-07-21T21:46:00.000-07:002008-07-25T01:03:27.949-07:00

Doves Without Wings(a tribute to peacemakers)by Bok Araneta*if cast into the world of broken dreamswhere darkness looms over the gloomy sky,where shams and drudgeries silently echothe pains and cry of wounded souls,what is there to live for?but lo and behold!life is not always what it seems to befor while walking in the untainted roads of lifewhere fear and trembling shook our beingwhere life

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Cebu City-- the jewel city of Philippines—played host to the 4th annual Regional Meeting of the URI Cooperation Circle (CC) leaders/ representatives and trustees of the Southeast Asia-Pacific region, held on June 5 – 9, 2008. This year’s theme was: “Strengthening Leadership in the SEAP Region.”Hosted by the Cebu-based Kalinaw CC under the leadership of Sr. Sandra Clemente, RSCJ (outgoing Regional

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-71644948064401166242008-02-19T00:53:00.000-08:002008-07-22T00:20:39.309-07:00

Vol. II No. 4 (Oct - Nov - Dec 2007)Editorial StaffEDITOR-IN-CHIEF:Sr.Sandra G. Clemente, RSCJMANAGING EDITOR:Shakuntala M. VaswaniPUBLISHERS:URI SEAsia-Pacific Regional Office & The Peacemakers' CircleCONTRIBUTORS:Rev. Charles P. GibbsDr. Shakun M. VaswaniMs. Marites Guingona-AfricaBro. Valentin ShokuruDr. Muhammad Uthman El-MuhammadyMs. Jessiee Kaur-SinghMr. Abel MoyaMr. Orlan de Guzman, JrMr.

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On October 24, 2007, forty imams and priests in Metro Manila learned that dialogue is not only a means to an end, but also an end in itself. They came together for the first time to engage in activities that involved not only speaking to each other with respect, but also listening to each other rightly with the heart; not only learning about each other and seeing similarities between them, but

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-84763830859536984262008-02-15T02:18:00.001-08:002008-03-10T23:26:48.481-07:00

by Sr. Sandra G. Clemente, RSCJ - URI SE Asia-Pacific Regional Trustee (2005-2008)I remember a movie I had seen some years ago, "The Never Ending Story". In this movie, the protagonist-- a teenage boy-- had only one goal, which was to search for a land called Fantasia. Along the way, he faced many obstacles and hardships that almost discouraged him from accomplishing his mission. However, the

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In this section we feature a reflection from Bro. Valentin Shukuru* a Catholic seminarian from Congo, Africa.In African traditions, the greatest misery, misfortune a man or a woman can experience is dying without children. This is the reason why barrenness or sterility is considered as a curse. There are 3 major events that mark life in African society namely, birth, marriage, and death. These 3

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-10294763256880871752008-02-15T02:05:00.000-08:002008-02-19T01:06:38.292-08:00

This section features central themes and subject matters viewed from the perspective of the different religions and faith traditions.The most alluring of religious symbols is the light, the light that radiates everywhere within and without.In spiritual traditions light stands for many different things. It stands for the original goodness and purity. It also stands for the Truth as well as the joy

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-54905685869358799662008-02-15T02:00:00.000-08:002008-02-20T19:30:18.364-08:00

By Dr. Muhammad ‘Uthman El-Muhammady* Bi’awnika Ya Latif! Due to certain historical circumstances destiny has made it that Malaysia has been given the tremendous task of forging harmonious collective life among its inhabitants consisting of various religious and cultural groups, especially during the post-merdeka [independence] period. The citizens of the country consisting of representatives of

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EMBRACING DIVERSITYis an interview section with practitioners of interfaith dialogue. In this issue, we feature Ms. Jessiee Kaur-Singh, a Sikh from Melbourne, Australia. She is the dynamic president of the Centre of Melbourne Multifaith and Others Network (COMMON) CC.TCC: What is your faith tradition?JKS: I am a Sikh. Sikhism is a monotheistic faith that teaches everyone to lead an honest life,

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-18352249487434670422008-02-15T01:24:00.001-08:002008-02-15T01:47:26.569-08:00

by Ludwig Bon M. Quirog The TULAY CC is a URI Cooperation Circle (CC) of youths; it is in the name itself. Trust, Understanding, and Learning Among Youth. We formed ourselves as sort of an offspring of an older CC. Bohol Goodwill Volunteers Incorporated, whose name had already established quite a reputation both as a CC in the URI and a non-government organization in our province.Aside from our

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-62338400281227387052008-02-15T01:16:00.001-08:002008-02-15T01:20:14.636-08:00

On November 16, 2007 around 100 representatives from different faith-based groups in Cebu City gathered together to attend a consultation meeting with the city mayor and other government officials at the Cebu Grand Hotel. Cebu City Mayor, Hon. Tomas Osmena, called for the meeting to consult with different sectors of the society for the government’s visioning and planning for the city in the next

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-68204381126600956232008-02-12T01:44:00.000-08:002008-02-15T01:10:33.055-08:00

In response to the need for enhancing peace in Mindanao, Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo signed on November 26, 2001 Presidential Proclamation No. 127 declaring the last Thursday of November up to the first Wednesday of December of every year as the Mindanao Week of Peace. The Mindanao Week of Peace points to the future of peaceful coexistence between peoples divided by culture and

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-33169529241487715912008-02-12T00:35:00.000-08:002008-02-12T00:59:33.319-08:00

On August 2007 the Muslim–Christian Peacemakers’ Association (MCPA) CC, assisted by The Peacemakers’ Circle CC, finished the construction of a “sari-sari” ("variety") store. This small-scale enterprise is hoped to jumpstart a livelihood program to help generate income for the grassroots members of MCPA-CC. The structure was built as a requirement to avail of a government assistance program called

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-9260253278709879792008-02-06T23:19:00.000-08:002008-03-03T01:19:58.545-08:00

by Dr. Shakuntala M. VaswaniURI SE Asia-Pacific Regional CoordinatorSTRENGHTENING BONDS WITH CCsREGIONAL COORDINATOR VISITS CCs in Bohol & Cebu (Philippines ) & Svay Rieng (Cambodia)CEBU The Regional Coordinator, Ms. Shakuntala Vaswani traveled to Cebu and Bohol in October to meet the members and participate in the activities of the three Cooperation Circles (CC) in the area.In Cebu, she had

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-55365043639557683902008-02-06T23:14:00.000-08:002008-06-18T23:21:49.204-07:00

URI Philippine CCs held first country meetingThe Country Meeting of the URI Cooperation Circles (CC) from all over the Philippines took place for the first time on October 31 – November 1, 2007 at the URI SEAP Regional Coordinating Office in Loyola Heights, Quezon City, Metro Manila.Five out of the six existing CCs in the archipelago participated. The leaders and representatives who were able to

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-9376487988136608192008-02-06T17:23:00.000-08:002008-02-06T23:13:55.636-08:00

a letter from URI Executive Director, REV. CANON CHARLS P. GIBBS. Dear Friends in the URI,Greetings of love and peace.In the Christmas story cherished by Christians around the world, wise ones from Persia (scholars speculate that they may have been Zoroastrian astrologers) follow a star to Bethlehem where they behold a new light that entered the world with the birth of the Christ child, who came

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-58142758277759656082008-02-04T21:22:00.000-08:002008-02-04T21:42:23.173-08:00

O Lord, the Light of Lights,You are the Indweller of the entire Universe.You are the One who makes the sun shine, the moon shine, who makes the stars shine, who makes the fire burn.Kindly lead us to that Light of Wisdom and remove the darkness of ignorance; enlighten our hearts.Help us experience that Light within and without.Help us see the same Light, the same spirit

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-26648700621083791862008-01-23T01:53:00.000-08:002008-02-04T21:22:21.655-08:00

Vol. II No. 3 (Jul - Aug - Sept 2007)EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:Sr.Sandra G. Clemente, RSCJMANAGING EDITOR:Shakuntala M. VaswaniPUBLISHERS:URI SEAsia-Pacific Regional Office & The Peacemakers' CircleCONTRIBUTORS:Rev. Charles P. GibbsDr. Shakun VaswaniMs. Marites AfricaMs. Belinda EspirituSwami GuhabhaktanandaMr. Ludwig Bon QuirogMr. Orlan de Guzman, JrMr. Abel MoyaMs. Jessiee Kaur-SinghMs. Sharon Vaswani

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-35516946820638523182008-01-21T23:50:00.000-08:002008-01-22T00:11:50.933-08:00

As the conference hall started to be filled with the flags of the different religious symbols and display banners from different faiths, the presentation area also started to be filled with musical instruments. On one side a drum set, electric guitars and amplifiers were positioned; on the other side gongs, drums and bamboos were laid on the floor. Little by little, group by group, people started

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-59705687249072797052008-01-21T23:40:00.000-08:002008-01-21T23:50:43.732-08:00

by Sr. Sandra G. Clemente, RSCJ - URI SE Asia-Pacific Regional TrusteeDearly beloved co-workers of the URI,All over the world, we celebrate September 21 as the International Day of Peace— a day when everyone supposedly promotes and becomes more aware of PEACE. But what have we seen in the weeks after that date this year?- Buddhist monks from Burma were gunned down, hundreds died while protesting

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-24297763163274455792008-01-21T23:17:00.000-08:002008-01-21T23:39:49.610-08:00

by Ms. Belinda Espiritu (Protestant Christian)*Turkey is a country where culture, civilization, nature, and history blend to create a fabulous and mystical aura. Its natural environment is delicately interwoven with a history that includes Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman times. As a country where many places are biblical and sacred, Turkey is also considered a holy land. It is generously endowed

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-10594698204014040282008-01-21T22:49:00.000-08:002008-01-21T23:17:10.049-08:00

This section features central themes and subject matters viewed from the perspective of the different religions and faith traditions. Meditation is a discipline or practice of the mind and/or body that enables an individual to alter his consciousness or achieve a higher state of consciousness. It describes a quiet, alert, powerfully concentrated state in the person.Meditation has been around for

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-13129869635821759152008-01-21T22:36:00.000-08:002008-01-21T22:48:02.207-08:00

By Swami Guhabhaktananda*Listening is the essence of true dialogue. It is about silencing our minds so that we can hear what is in the heart of the “other.” This space is for essays and articles from friends and supporters of the Circle. We invite you to engage in the spirit of dialogue by “listening” to what is being said with openness, respect and understanding.Peace is a divine attribute; it

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-65793877820723667622008-01-21T22:19:00.000-08:002008-01-22T00:34:56.936-08:00

This is an interview section with practitioners of interfaith dialogue. In this issue, we feature Mr. Ludwig Bon Quirog, a non-denominational Christian from Bohol Island, Philippines. He is the youth leader of one the newest cooperation circles in the region, the TULAY CC TCC: What is your faith tradition?Ludwig: I am Christian but i have no denomination. I am generally a believer and a follower

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-61751500381224426002008-01-21T21:55:00.000-08:002008-01-21T22:36:28.887-08:00

The Peacemakers' Circle CC and the URI Southeast Asia-Pacific Regional Coordinating Office, together with the local interfaith community in Manila, celebrated the International Day of Peace 2007 with “SACRED SONGS OF PEACE: An Interfaith Musical Celebration” on September 21, 2007 at the Miriam College Environmental Studies Institute in Quezon City, Metro Manila. Nearly 200 people attended the

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-32619914588617540252008-01-21T21:41:00.000-08:002008-01-22T00:09:47.563-08:00

Iligan City. Mindanao, PhilippinesPakigdait, Inc. an interfaith grassroot peacebuilding civil society organization based in Iligan City and Lanao del Norte has gathered a number of significant personalities from the civil society, international volunteers organizations, and the press to celebrate International Peace Day.The event marks the joint call for global peace by invited persons from

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-28835575587682567892008-01-21T21:21:00.000-08:002008-01-21T21:41:09.418-08:00

Healing Love, Healing LandThe Centre Of Melbourne Multi-faith and Others Network (COMMON) celebrated the UN International Day of Peace 2007 with unity in diversity and interfaith understanding as they organized the Multifaith Week from September 21st– 27th, 2007 in Melbourne.Launching the week-long event on the 21st September, Peace Day, was the Multifaith Healing Conference dubbed: HEALING LOVE,

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-10855697685557815812008-01-21T01:33:00.001-08:002008-01-21T18:35:14.518-08:00

VPAR FORUM-SEMINAR IN PUP The Bulwagang Balagtas (Balagtas Hall) of the Ninoy Aquino Learning Resource Center at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Sta. Mesa, Manila can comfortably accommodate a crowd of around 600-800. But on August 22, 2007 the venue played host to over a thousand college students who attended the Visions of Peace Among Religions (VPAR) Seminar-Forum

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The Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) - of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians – Philippines played host to the C.I.A.O. (Conference Interispettoriale Asia Orientale / Inter-Provincial Conference of East Asia) first Asian Youth Camp participated by around 400 youths representing 14 countries from East Asia on August 10 to 14, 2007. Among the various simultaneous activities organized by SYM for

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-73514829741529097022008-01-20T23:57:00.000-08:002008-02-15T00:17:39.957-08:00

(A youth facilitator’s reflection)by Sharon Danisha M. VaswaniOn August 12, 2007, more than 60 delegates from 14 countries in Asia set off for the Mornese Center of Spirituality in Pansol, Calamba, Laguna, looking forward with anticipation to the Interfaith Youth Encounter. The workshop aimed to share the experience of interfaith dialogue to foster stronger bonds among the youths amidst diversity

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-27981385031634733402008-01-20T23:35:00.001-08:002008-01-20T23:57:41.407-08:00

Newsbriefs from Dr. Shakuntala M. Vaswani, URI SE Asia-Pacific Regional CoordinatorURI Receives ECOSOC Status with the United Nations(URI Hub report—Monday, 29 October 2007)URI has recently received official notice that the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations has granted URI Special Consultative Status. This will raise the visibility and status of URI in the world and will open the

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A Reflection from the URI Executive Director, REV. CANON CHARLES P. GIBBSDear Friends,Greetings of love and peace.In slightly more than a month, on September 21, URI Cooperation Circles around the world will join millions of others in observing the UN’s International Day of Peace. This yearly observance creates a powerful moment of solidarity among peacebuilding people all over the Earth. And

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-23989204110439198102008-01-20T22:44:00.000-08:002008-01-20T22:50:22.746-08:00

HOPE“Here is a plain statement to men, a guidance and instruction to those who fear God. So lose not heart, nor fall into despair: For ye must gain mastery if ye are true in Faith.” (16:96)UNITY“Hold fast, all together, by the Rope which God (stretches out for you), and be not divided among yourselves; and remember with gratitude God’s favor on you; for ye were enemies and He joined your hearts

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-45110645093040563272007-09-10T21:45:00.000-07:002007-09-10T22:59:28.211-07:00

The UNITED RELIGIONS Initiative’s Global Council and Staff gathered in Antwerp , Belgium last June, 2007 for their annual meetings to deepen relationships, exchange knowledge and experiences and to co-create vision and plans for URI’s growth and development in the coming years.We were graciously hosted by URI Europe in the beautiful grounds of the Theological and Pastoral Center in Antwerp . The

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-23881464032204677632007-09-10T21:12:00.000-07:002007-09-10T23:07:02.256-07:00

by Sr. Sandra G. Clemente, RSCJDearly beloved URI co-workers,United Religions Initiative (URI) as a global organization is now seven years old from the time of its charter signing in June 26, 2000. We are not a “toddler” anymore as we are now beginning to enter the world of “knowing and learning”. In the process of human development, the child at this stage not only grows physically and

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-84480184735869517622007-09-10T20:56:00.000-07:002007-09-10T23:19:59.959-07:00

by Mr. Michael Lim, Unitarian Universalist from MalaysiaI wish to reflect on the tale of two masters – Siddharta and Jesus – two individuals whose life stories have touched the lives of billions for over two thousand years.Siddharta (meaning “wish fulfilled”) Gautama or better known as the Buddha was born about 500 years before Jesus in Lumbini in the plains of what is today called Nepal. He was

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-42800613044967763432007-09-10T18:33:00.000-07:002007-09-11T00:51:11.194-07:00

InterSPECT (Interfaith Perspectives) features centeral themes and subject matters viewed from the perspective of the different religions and faith traditions.The GOLDEN RULE is the most fundamental common ethical denominator of all religious and non-religious belief systems on Earth. In fact, the GOLDEN RULE is a rather simple but very profound precept.It means: “TREAT OTHERS AS YOU WOULD LIKE TO

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-69169449427355836092007-09-10T02:57:00.000-07:002007-09-11T00:35:34.250-07:00

Listening is the essence of true dialogue. It is about silencing our minds so that we can hear what is in the heart of the “other.” This space is for essays and articles from friends and supporters of the Circle. We invite you to engage in the spirit of dialogue by “listening” to what is being said with openness, respect and understanding.Peace Among Religions: A Taoist Perspectiveby Mr. Tan Hoe

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-12447387912096594172007-09-10T02:33:00.000-07:002007-09-11T00:58:06.758-07:00

This is an interview section with practitioners of interfaith dialogue. In this issue, we feature Dr. Judy T. Banu, DVM, RN, a Folk-Catholic from Manila, Philippines. She is a former board member of The Peacemakers’ Circle CC.TCC: What is your faith tradition?Judy: I was raised in a traditional Catholic family. Going to other churches was considered taboo. But later on, questions kept cropping

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-2783355433099211422007-09-10T02:19:00.000-07:002007-09-11T01:02:20.035-07:00

Mabuhay, TULAY CC - Bohol, Philippines!TULAY (a word in the Filipino language which literally means “BRIDGE”) stands for Trust, Understanding & Learning Among Youth. The name says it all— our CC’s purpose is to serve as venue for us youths to trust, understand and learn from each other. In establishing our group and registering as a cooperation circle we commit to contribute our time and talents

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-31135272718392652802007-09-10T02:11:00.000-07:002007-09-11T01:03:35.387-07:00

The Malaysian Interfaith Network is a pre-existing organization that was launched in February 15, 2003. Represented by different religious leaders, it aims to organize programs to get Malaysians to practice unity, peace and the common values of different religions in order to create a more harmonious and peaceful society in multi-racial and multi-religious Malaysia.Its theme is based on The

URI SEAsia-Pacifichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14373720707799956017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837972900344568643.post-29576639440594702552007-09-10T01:55:00.000-07:002007-09-10T18:29:44.176-07:00

The PJH CC was recently formed through the encouragement of Mr. Sabapathy Alagiah (from Mozambique CC) and Dr. Ratnam Alagiah (from Gold Coast CC) and our members all agreed to name it: PEACE, JUSTICE, HARMONY (PJH).Our purpose is to learn from and study the different religions and faith traditions in order to promote understanding, mutual respect and tolerance and to contribute towards bringing

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"HEALING LOVE IN ACTION” (In conjunction with Heart Flow Worldwide; SLAM; UNESCO Clubs; & APNIEVE) Over 150 people gathered on April 29, 2007 for the event that was held at the Sanctuary of the Heart, Daylesford, Victoria.The panel discussion moderated by Margaret Coffey an ABC presenter looked at healing and what it means for each religion. In the panel we had Uncle Reg Blow (Aboriginal elder);

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3rd Asia-Pacific Regional Interfaith DialogueWaitangi, New Zealand (May 29 - 31, 2007)SPECIAL REPORTby Marites Guingona-AfricaThe Peacemakers' Circle URI CC PhilippinesI was privileged to be part of the Philippine delegation that was among the 150 delegates representing the diversity of religions and cultures in 15 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. We gathered together in Waitangi, New

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The Peacemakers’ Circle has recently conducted two workshops on The Art and Soul of Muslim-Christian Dialogue for two groups of Muslim youths from the Manila district. The first workshop was held on February 25, 2007 for 22 youth members of the Filipino Muslim Foundation Youth Council for Peace and Development (FMYCPAD), and was conducted at the office of its co-organizer, the Filipino-Muslim

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On March 28, 2007 The Peacemakers’ Circle was invited by the Griffith Multifaith Center (Queensland, Australia) in partnership with Miriam College Center for Peace Education and the Silsilah Dialogue Movement of Mindanao to co-facilitate a workshop for educators entitled: “Promoting Understanding, Respect and Harmony Among Faiths for a Culture of Peace”. Held at the Caritas Hall of Miriam College

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On May 20, 2007 the Byakko Shinko Kai (White Light Spiritual Organization), with the support of the World Peace Prayer Society (WPPS) and the Goi Peace Foundation, held its Third Annual Symphony of Peace Prayers at the Fuji Sanctuary (located at the foot of Mt. Fuji) in Japan. The event gathered together more than 10,000 Japanese participants and hundreds of leaders and representatives from

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On May 26, 2007 representatives from The Peacemakers’ Circle attended the First Annual Philippine Convergence for Human Synergy held in Quezon City. The whole day event was organized by SanibLakas ng Taongbayan Foundation under the initiative of its Lead Founder and Executive Director, Mr. Ed Aurelio “Ding” Reyes (also a recent regular attendee of the Peacemakers’ Tuesday Inner Work Circle).The

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A Reflection from the URI President, RET. BISHOP WILLIAM SWINGFive years ago a few men commandeered four airplanes. Two crashed into the World Trade Center Towers and one into the Pentagon. This scene of horror was motivated by a conviction that God would be praised by such devastation. Two years ago hurricanes Katrina and Rita carved a path of destruction through Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida

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by Mother Mangalam (spiritual leader of the Pure Life Society in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)Prayer is an invisible power generated by pure thought force, directed by our will to the object of our love. The purer the thought the more powerful becomes our prayer― more so if it comes from the depths of silence within us.In the depths of silence lies dormant the creative energy that gives shape to the

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:Dr. Amir Farid bin Dato IsahakMANAGING EDITOR:Shakuntala Moorjani-VaswaniPUBLISHERS:URI SEAsia-Pacific Regional Office & The Peacemakers' CircleCONTRIBUTORS:Rev. Charles GibbsDr. Shakun VaswaniMs. Marites AfricaMother A. MangalamMr. Bob GuerreroMr. Alfred TayMr. Orlan de Guzman, JrMr. Mike AlarMs. Michelle Sia

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The 3rd Annual Meeting of the URI Southeast Asia-Pacific (SEAP) Regional Trustees and leaders of Cooperation Circles on the theme, Moving forward in solidarity to build cultures of peace in the region, took place in Kuala Lumpur (KL), Malaysia from March 14-16, 2007. This was the first regional meeting held outside Manila- the seat of the regional office.The Regional Meeting was hosted by the

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by Dr. Amir Farid Bin Dato Isahak, URI SE Asia-Pacific Regional TrusteeDearly beloved co-workers of the URI,After many years of being active in Islamic and Interfaith activities, striving to bring peace among the peoples of various religions in my multi-racial and multi-religious country, and in the last few years also at the regional and global level, I have come to realize that peace is very

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A Reflection by Mother Mangalam* from the Pure Life Society in MalaysiaCountless schools of thought have emerged to this day about Man, his relationship with nature or with the Unseen Power that charges us almost everyday in our sleep in order to enable us to get up refreshed to face another day. This Unseen Entity has been given a name and some have given It a form. The result is we countless

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This section features central themes and subject matters viewed from the perspective of the different religions and faith traditions.Beliefs and ideas concerning the origin of the earth and human beings are an important part of the belief system in religions. Many of these stories are not intended to be factual but are intended for literary interpretation. They are symbolic or true to some extent

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UNITARIAN UNIVERSALISM: A Progressive Faith for Today's Worldby Bob Guerrero*Can one be religious without doctrine? Can someone form his/her own theology and yet be in a community with others who may have different views? Can someone have a faith that welcomes questions and doubts?Unitarian Universalism (UU) answers ‘yes” to every question. UU is a liberal, progressive religious tradition that is

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