URI SEAP e-newsletter Vol. III No. 1

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 Kalinaw CC under the leadership of Sr. Sandra Clemente, RSCJ (outgoing Regional Trustee)... Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008_06_01_archive.html

Editorial: INTERFAITH SECTOR & LOCAL GOVERNMENT PARTNERSHIPS
by Sr. Sandra G. Clemente, RSCJ
URI SEAP Trustee


The 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 religions. The Interfaith sector was born out of the vision of the City Mayor, Hon. Tomas Osmena, to consult the various sectors of the society to help in the city's strategic planning for Cebu City+10... Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/editorial-interfaith-sector-local.html

WALKING WITH WITH THE MONKS: An Interfaith Journey to China
by Dr. Amir Farid Bin Dato Isahak
URI - SEAP Global Trustee

Recently 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... Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/walking-with-with-monks-interfaith.html

Conversations with Dr. John Gurusamy (Anglican Christian from Malaysia) EMBRACING DIVERSITY is 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... Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/conversations-with-dr-john-gurusamy.html


Forum on Moral Imagination & the Mindanao Peace Process
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 members of the MI team had concerning Dr. Jo's experience as a member of the MNLF--Joint Working Group of the GRP-MNLF-OIC (Gov't of the Rep. of the Phils.-Moro National Liberation Front-Organization of the Islamic Conference, a union of Muslim nations to which Muslims in the Philippines looked for support) Tripartite Meeting... Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/forum-on-moral-imagination-mindanao.html

Intra-Imam Grassroots Dialogue workshops in Manila
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: 1) Phase 12 of Baranggay 188 in Tala, Caloocan City (March 26 – 28, 2008); 2) Salam Compound in Culiat, Tandang Sora in Quezon City (March 30, Apr. 5 & Apr. 13, 2008); 3) Golden Mosque in Quiapo in the City of Manila (Apr. 2 – 4, 2008); 4) Green Mosque in Maharlika Village, Taguig City (Apr. 14-16, 2008). Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/intra-imam-grassroots-dialogue.html

Imams-Priests Moving Ways forward for Nation-Building in Manila
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 process of strengthening the organizational model of the NIPDF, PCFI-CC organized a dialogue forum on April 12, 2008 (Saturday) that brought together all the imams and priests who participated in the seminar-workshop... read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/imams-priests-moving-ways-forward-for.html

Muslim-Christian Dialogue for Nation-Building Pilot Summer Training Program - Manila
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 Interreligious Dialogue of the Catholic Bishop's Conference of the Philippines (ECID-CBCP), the Imam Council of the Philippines, the University of the Philippines' Institute of Islamic Studies—and the invaluable support of the U.S. Democracy Small Grants Program. Module I (Introduction to Muslim-Christian Dialogue) ran from April 20-24, and Module II (Building Bridges of Muslim-Christian Understanding) from April 27-May 1... Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/muslim-christian-dialogue-for-nation.html

Updates from Muslim-Christian Peacemakers' Assoc. CC - Caloocan City, Phils.
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...

A.I.D. for peace formed by Imams of Tala
On March 26 – 28, 2008 The Peacemakers’ Circle CC conducted the intensive three-day Intra-Imam training on interfaith dialogue to 25 imams and grassroots Muslim leaders in Tala, Caloocan...
Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/updates-from-muslim-christian.html


Interfaith Celebration of Women's Month in Manila
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 different tribal dishes awaited them, and a most colorful and intimate gathering of interfaith women would take place...
Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/interfaith-celebration-of-womens-month.html

Interfaith Youth Orientation in Manila
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... Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/interfaith-youth-orientation-in-manila.html

Updates from TULAY CC - Bohol, Phils
Reported by Ms. Marjorie Angalot
TRUST, UNDERSTANDING & LEARNING AMONG YOUTH (TULAY) CC

I. Outreach at Tagbilaran Dumpsite
On 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...
II. Self-Transformation & Youth Leadership Seminar
In the hope of awakening our higher potentials, the “Trust, Understanding and Learning Among Youth” (TULAY) CC and the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation of Bohol jointly sponsored a 2-day “Self-Transformation and Youth Leadership” seminar last May 24-25, 2008 in Tagbilaran City...

III. Planning meeting
Last 11 June 2008, the TULAY CC members once again had a meeting at Jojie’s restaurant, Tagbilaran City. Being one of those who attended the URI-SEAP 4th Regional Meeting and witnessed the launching of Interfaith Sector of Cebu City, Ms. Marjorie Angalot recounted how she felt privileged and honored to represent the youth CC...
Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/updates-from-tulay-cc-bohol-phils.html

Updates from PAKIGDAIT CC - Mindanao, Phils.
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...

Pakigdait CC has been at the forefront in the declaration of March as the Lanao Month of Peace. This year’s celebration saw a series of activities spread throughout the whole month. Among these was the Panagtagbo sa Kalinaw...

Pakigdait CC conducted on March 24, 2008 the Pastors, Priests, Imams and Nuns (PPIN) conference where participants were trained to facilitate interfaith dialogues at the grassroots level...

Equally valuing the youth sector for its crucial role in peacebuilding Pakigdait CC gathered them in a two-day Interfaith Youth Convergence on April 22-23, 2008...

On April 25-26, 2008 Pakigdait went on a Historical Journey to “expand the horizon for peace” by visiting historical sites for peace and conflict in and around the province...
Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/updates-from-pakigdait-cc-mindanao.html

Update from COMMON CC - Australia
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... Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/update-from-common-cc-australia.html

URI bears witness to the launching of Cebu City's Interfaith Sector
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 Osmena. In the presence of the city mayor, representatives from the Catholic Archbishop of Cebu, United Council of Churches in the Phils., Office on Muslim Affairs, other distinguished guests and the local interfaith community-- the URI SEAP delegates were honored to participate in the momentous occasion which was envisioned to inspire the active role of interfaith cooperation in the next 10 years of the city... Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/uri-bears-witness-to-launching-of-cebu.html

Message of URI ED for Cebu Interfaith Sector
Rev. Charles P. Gibbs, Executive Director

Dear 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 and to create cultures of peace, justice and healing for the Earth and all living beings!

As I understand, Fort San Pedro is the oldest fort in the Philippines, completed in 1738. Over the past 270 years, it has served as a military installation for Spanish, Philippine and American soldiers. It has been used as a prison camp, a school and a garden center. It has fallen into ruin and been restored... Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/message-of-uri-ed-for-cebu-interfaith.html

A message from the URI hub: GC Trustees Elections
Dear 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)... Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/message-from-uri-hub-gc-trustees.html

POETRY: "Doves Without Wings"
(a tribute to peacemakers)
by Bok Araneta*

if cast into the world of broken dreams
where darkness looms over the gloomy sky,
where shams and drudgeries silently echo
the pains and cry of wounded souls,
what is there to live for?

...Read more: www.uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/poetry-doves-without-wings.html

Editorial: INTERFAITH SECTOR & LOCAL GOVERNMENT PARTNERSHIPS

by Sr. Sandra G. Clemente, RSCJ

URI SEAP Trustee

The 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 religions. The Interfaith sector was born out of the vision of the City Mayor, Hon. Tomas Osmena, to consult the various sectors of the society to help in the city's strategic planning for Cebu City+10. (see photos and read related story: http://uriseapnewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/07/uri-bears-witness-to-launching-of-cebu.html)

Adding to the significance of this day was the presence of the URI Southeast Asia and the Pacific regional meeting delegates who witnessed the event and added an international flavour. Allow me to share with you a part of the message given by Ms. Shakun Vaswani, our Regional Coordinator as representative of URI in SEAsia-Pacific:

"Today is a historic day for the people of Cebu and we are privileged to be part of this gathering to witness the formal launching if the INTERFAITH SECTOR in this beautiful city. We congratulate Mayor Osmena and his team , together with all the interfaith leaders of this City for this timely action to come together to formalize the interfaith sector in Cebu City. This is indeed an encouraging move to promote peace and solidarity among the people and make the city a better place for all who live in, work or visit it.

In the prevailing state of affairs around the world, there is a growing recognition that government, and especially local government, has to have a stronger commitment to focus on the inter-faith relationships since harmonious relationships between communities of different faiths is fundamental to a safe society in any city.

We are aware that religions and cultures are intertwined and we must enhance efforts to bridge the divides between different religions and cultures and identify common values and standards and learn to live with our differences in mutual respect for a shared culture of peace and harmony and security.

Interfaith groups are an emerging sector that need to be supported through local government and we commend this partnership in Cebu City. We also commend the role played by Sr. Sandra Clemente, a Trustee in URI, and Kalinaw Cooperation Circle to bring this dream to realization and build the interfaith solidarity to be ”one in promoting life and integrity of creation towards Cebu City + 10”, the theme of this inauguration.

It is my hope and prayer that this initiative of the local government to recognize and establish partnership with the interfaith sector will reverberate in other cities, not only in the Philippines but throughout the Southeast Asia-Pacific region and we will see more of such initiatives towards building a culture of peace in our region.

Mabuhay! May Peace on Earth Prevail!

Sr. Sandra G. Clemente, RSCJ

WALKING WITH WITH THE MONKS: An Interfaith Journey to China

by Dr. Amir Farid Bin Dato Isahak

URI - SEAP Global Trustee

Recently 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 six Buddhist monks, their assistants, and the organizing committee members, addvisers and staff, the entourage included leaders of the other major faiths in Malaysia (Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism). I was invited as an interfaith leader, representing the URI, Interfaith Spiritual Fellowship (INSAF), and the Malaysian Interfaith Network (MIN). There were 35 of us, from Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, and China.

The program was very tight and we went straight from the airport to the first event even before we could check-in at the hotel or rest. We visited the Diaoyutai State Guest House, which is an ornate building used as a resort palace by ancient emperors. Thereafter, we were treated to a grand reception.

In Beijing, we visited and had dialogues with the Buddhist Association of China, the China Taoist Association and the Islamic Association of China. We also visited the China State Bureau of Religious Affairs. There we were given a thorough briefing on the relationship between the government and the various religions. The Malaysian religious leaders were given ample oppotunity to ask questions and I was impressed by the openness of the bureau's director in responding to our queries. They also hosted a dinner in our honour.

China is anxious to convince the world that she is now very tolerant of all religions, provided that there is no political activism, especially any hint of independence or secession, among the adherents. This is particularly so in the light of the recent events in Tibet, and the sporadic reports of separatist movements in some of the Muslim-majority regions.

Adventure on the Silk Road

From Beijing, we flew to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Urumqi was one of the main tading cities on the ancient Silk Road, and remians a very busy trading center until now. Goods and people from the former Soviet republics, Eastern Europe, Mongolia and the rest of China converge here. It is also turning into an industrial city.

Here we visited the old Shanxi Mosque, famous for its unique Chinese architecture. Another highlight was the International Grand Bazaar, which marks the commercial center of this very busy city. We were guests of a local Muslim businessman who proudly showed us his collection of old handwritten copies of the Qur'an. We also visited the Xinjiang College for Qur'an Study.

The beauty and enigma of Urumqi and Xinjiang are familiar to those who have read the classic story Journey to the West.

Xinjiang is larger than Malaysia, but has much fewer people. There are 47 "minority" ethnic groups, the largest of which are the Uygurs. The people were once Buddhists as evidenced by the ruins of Baizikeli Cheonbuldong (Thousand Buddhas Grottos) and the ancient Buddhist city of Gaochang.

Now the majority are Muslims, something not surprising seeing its close proximity to Khorasan (central Asian Muslim countries which include the former Soviet republics) and the transmigration of Muslims since the 7th century CE.

Both the Buddhist historical sites were near Turpan, another trading city on the Silk Road, about 3 hours by bus from Urumqi. The highway to Turpan traversed the arid, barren and windy Gobi Desert. It forms part of the vast Turpan Basin, which is surrounded by the snow-topped Tian Shan mountain. Here is a display of nature's bizzare contrasts.

The Way of Health

Back in Beijing on our way home, the farewell lunch was at a Buddhist-themed vegetarian restaurant. On its menu is this caption: "The True Way of Health is toboostthe body's energy in all its forms." I couldn't agree more. I have been trying to educate the public about the various forms of energy that we thrive on, and hence influence our health, and qi or life force is just one of them.

The Way of Peace

Since this was an interfaith study tour, during the long bus journeys, we took turns explaining about our respective religions to the others. When we got tired of religious talks we switched to singing and jokes. This trip was under the supervision and guidance of the Most Venerable Master Chin Kung, possibly the most successful interfaith peacemaker in this region. He is respected for his work in China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Australia and many other countries. He has established the Pure Land College in Australia, and the Center of Chinese Cultural Education in Lujiang, China. Through his work, he has transformed many lives, and even entire communities. At 82 years of age, he is still working hard for religious harmony and world peace.

He is humble, soft-spoken and ever smiling. During this trip he carried his personal fold-out fan everywhere. On it is written the fundamental teachings of Islam. yet he is among the most famous Buddhist monks in the world today. i truly respect his wisdom and open-mindedness.

CHMCET was formed in honour of Admiral Cheng Ho (or Zheng He, 1371-1433), the most famous and most successful Chinese admiral, explorer, and diplomat. he led hundreds of ships in his armada to many countries in many continents. He did not conquer a single territory, but instead brought peace, trade and established diplomatic ties between these nations with China. He was already a global peace-maker in the early fifteenth century. He was a Muslim leading a non-Muslim naval force, and serving a non-Muslim Emperor.

Conversations with Dr. John Gurusamy (Anglican Christian from Malaysia)

EMBRACING DIVERSITY
is 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 the Nicene Creed and ours is a religion that is hierarchical.

TCC: How did you get involved in interfaith dialogue?

JG: From my school days, I have always been interested in religion as I had good Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Muslim friends and I have always felt that all of us had the same core values. So, eventually, as opportunities presented themselves, I openly engaged in interfaith discussion and lectures even as far back since the 70's. I have then been active in the Interfaith Spiritual Fellowship (INSaF) of the Pure Life Society since the 80's and 90s. And now, I am acting as coordinator of the Malaysian Interfaith Network (MIN).

TCC: What teachings from your faith enabled you to appreciate in interfaith dialogue?

JG: Love as expressed in the Golden Rule from the Bible: “In everything, do unto others as you would have them do unto you; for this is the law [of God] and [the teachings of] the prophets.” (Matthew 7:12) It aptly summarizes all of God's laws, and it is also present in all the different major religions of the world.

TCC: How has the practice of interfaith dialogue enriched you?

JG: It has made me more appreciative of other faiths and has made me realize that God only requires us to be just, merciful and humble. (Micah 6:8)

TCC: What message would you like to convey to the readers about interfaith dialogue?

JG: In a globalised village of pluralism, we have to realize that God is the Macrocosm and we are the microcosm. We are one human family, and it is incumbent on each of us to promote and practice inclusivity. This is the Golden Rule in practice. The most basic teaching found in all faiths, the Golden Rule should be practiced in innovative, creative ways in the different areas of life— within the family, in the workplace and in the communities-- through many different expressions like Yoga, T’ai Chi, Art, Music, Dance, Culture and Sports.

Forum on Moral Imagination & the Mindanao Peace Process

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 members of the MI team had concerning Dr. Jo's experience as a member of the MNLF--Joint Working Group of the GRP-MNLF-OIC (Gov't of the Rep. of the Phils.-Moro National Liberation Front-Organization of the Islamic Conference, a union of Muslim nations to which Muslims in the Philippines looked for support) Tripartite Meeting. The MNLF-GRP-OIC Tripartite Meeting had been postponed about six times over the past year, and the last meeting held early in February this year was strongly contentious, according to Dr. Jo.

Dr. Jo pointed out that the problem in the southern Philippines was aggravated when in September 1972 martial law was declared by then President Ferdinand Marcos and all civilians were ordered to surrender their guns. This resulted in spontaneous rebellions among Moros, who traditionally had equated the right to carry arms with their religious heritage and were suspicious of the government's intentions toward them.

The problem eventually gave rise to the creation of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) that fought for an independent Moro nation. But during the late 70s differing goals, traditional tribal rivalries, and competition among Moro leaders for control of the movement produced a split in the MNLF. In January 1987, the MNLF accepted the government's offer of semi-autonomy.

Last February, Dr. Jo (though not a member of the MNLF) was invited to be in the MNLF Joint Working Group of Nur Misuari, incarcerated President of the MNLF. The experience, according to Dr. Jo, challenged his being a "peacemaker" because of the abusive treatment he received from the prison guards of Misuari. As MI Phil. team co-member, Ms. Marites Africa, listened to his story, she realized that this was something that had to be shared with the public. Thus she urged him to do so but from the perspective of an MI peacebuilder (so that we could offer an "out-of-the-box" way of looking at the problem).

The lecture was well attended and successful. The MI Phil. team plans to offer similar seminars on the MI approach to social change and/or integrate them into the various workshop-seminars that they will be conducting in the coming months. Further, Ms. Marites I have invited Dr. Jo to present the same lecture (with some suggestions for improvement) in one of the modules of the MUSLIM-CHRISTIAN DIALOGUE FOR NATION-BUILDING training program this April.
(see also: http://moralimaginationmanila.blogspot.com/2008/05/mi-peace-process-in-southern.html)

Intra-Imam Grassroots Dialogue workshops in Manila

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 188 in Tala, Caloocan City (March 26 – 28, 2008)

Salam Compound in Culiat, Tandang Sora in Quezon City (March 30, Apr. 5 & Apr. 13, 2008)

Golden Mosque in Quiapo in the City of Manila (Apr. 2 – 4, 2008)

Green Mosque in Maharlika Village, Taguig City (Apr. 14-16, 2008)

A total of around 100 imams and Muslim leaders from the Balik Islam (Muslim convert) groups have successfully undergone the Intra-Imam training that was aimed at orienting them in interfaith dialogue and to prepare them to engage in dialogue with their counterparts, the Catholic priests, and other non-Muslims. Introducing the basic principles of dialogue and discussing the Islamic approach to interfaith dialogue the workshops were conducted and designed by Dr. Abdulhusin “Jo” Kashim (Peacemakers’ trustee) and assisted by co-designer and co-facilitator, Ms. Marites G. Africa (Peacemakers’ executive director.

Imams-Priests Moving Ways forward for Nation-Building in Manila

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 process of strengthening the organizational model of the NIPDF, PCFI-CC organized a dialogue forum on April 12, 2008 (Saturday) that brought together all the imams and priests who participated in the seminar-workshop.

The event hoped to aid them in their endeavors to find ways forward in organizing the NIPDF and addressing issues of common concern in the National Capital Region. Theme of the Forum was "Imams and Priests Dialogue for Ways Forward Together in Nation-Building." This was held at the U.P. Institute of Islamic Studies (UP-IIS), University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City.

Aside from the members and participants of NIPDF and its partners (the Australian Embassy, Episcopal Commission on Inter-Religious Dialogue of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Phils., UP-IIS, Imam Council of the Phils.), several representatives from the diplomatic and international community were also invited. Among the distinguished guests present were representatives from the Bishops-Ulama Conference, the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the World Islamic Call Society, The Asia Foundation, and the URI Moral Imagination Peacebuilding Training Program visiting team -- composed of Dr. Herm Weaver (from U.S. ), Dr. Abraham Karickam (from India), and Sr. Mary Tarcisia Lakot (from Uganda).

Muslim-Christian Dialogue for Nation-Building Pilot Summer Training Program - Manila

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 Interreligious Dialogue of the Catholic Bishop's Conference of the Philippines (ECID-CBCP), the Imam Council of the Philippines, the University of the Philippines' Institute of Islamic Studies—and the invaluable support of the U.S. Democracy Small Grants Program. Module I (Introduction to Muslim-Christian Dialogue) ran from April 20-24, and Module II (Building Bridges of Muslim-Christian Understanding) from April 27-May 1.

There were thirty participants (15 Muslims and 15 Christians) from different sectors of society, six were from Mindanao and the rest were from various parts of the National Capital Region of Metro Manila. Among them were representatives from the academe, the religious sector, media, government, non-government organizations, and people's organizations.

Creative expression approaches and methodologies were integral to the training process. The participants engaged in role playing and drama, some wrote poetry (see "Dove Without Wings"), others drew beautiful pictures that we hung on the wall, they sang and danced, played games, and at the end everyone seemed deeply moved by the experience! The first module focused on dialogue as a means to an end and an end in itself; on how to dialogue and listen with the heart, and how to perceive differences among people. It integrated the principles learned from the Moral Imagination Training under Dr. John Paul Lederach (foremost Mennonite lecturer on Conflict Transformation and Peacebuilding). The second module touched on the respective histories, teachings, beliefs and practices of the Christian and Islamic faiths.

For more information and more pictures visit: http://www.mcd2008.blogspot.com/

Updates from Muslim-Christian Peacemakers' Assoc. CC - Caloocan City, Phils.

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 (“progress”) or SEA-K Livelihood Program offered by the Department of Social Welfare & Development (DSWD). The moment the members will be able to return the seed loan to the government within the next 6 months they are entitled to the next level of loan where the capital is much higher than the first one (about 45,000 pesos each, payable within 3 years free of interest!)

Mr. Lee Collano, Peacemakers’ Circle CC staff and MCPA CC coordinator considered this project a breakthrough since most conflicts in the communities around Metro Manila are tied up with the economic crisis. In this partnership between one of the government’s agency –DSWD-- and the people’s organizations—and through the linking efforts of Peacemakers’ CC-- there is hope for alleviation of poverty and establishment of peace and order in these grassroots areas.

Peacemakers’ Circle CC leader, Ms. Marites Africa, expressed her joy about the project: “It was a happy occasion that afternoon for those of us present in the community to bear witness to the awarding of the funds to each of the members. The joy in their faces (when they came forward to receive the money) was so heartwarming that in my heart I fervently hoped and prayed that their endeavors at setting up their small livelihood businesses would succeed. How wonderful it would be to see our friends there growing in self confidence and sense of empowerment!”

This livelihood assistance of the DSWD that has been made possible through the tireless assistance of Mr. Lee has generated a growth in the membership of the MCPA CC. From 38 members, the number has now swelled to around 60. They have been divided into two groups to facilitate the application process of the SEA-K livelihood program.

A.I.D. for peace formed by Imams of Tala

On March 26 – 28, 2008 The Peacemakers’ Circle CC conducted the intensive three-day Intra-Imam training on interfaith dialogue to 25 imams and grassroots Muslim leaders in Tala, Caloocan.

Inspired by the workshop-seminar and the National Imams-Priests Dialogue Forum (NIPDF), the imam participants of Tala established the Association of Imams for Dialogue for Peace (AID for Peace). AID for Peace now serves as a model mechanism for ways forward in actively promoting the ongoing endeavor for Imams-Priests Dialogue at the grassroots level.

(more info at: www.muslimchristianpeace.blogspot.com)

Interfaith Celebration of Women's Month in Manila

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 different tribal dishes awaited them, and a most colorful and intimate gathering of interfaith women would take place.

The members of the Al-Salam Active Women's Association (ALSAWA) comprising of women from seven different tribes expressed their pleasure and feelings of being honored to host the program, and they welcomed their sisters from other faiths who also came dressed in customary or stylized cultural outfits. They represented various organizations and faith groups LED BY The Peacemakers' Circle URI CC and its partners from the Brahma Kumaris, the Hindu community, Shumei Phils. (a Japanese spiritual organization), the women of Chevalier Monks of Christ (CMC), and Ugnayan ng Nagkakaisang Kababaihan ( "network of women in unity").

(for more detailsa & photos... click here: www.interfaithwomenscirclemanila.blogspot.com/2008/05/womens-month-interfaith-celebration.html )

Interfaith Youth Orientation in Manila

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 meeting was attended by representatives from the Catholic Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Wiccan and Indigenous faiths, and belonging to various organizations and institutions, namely: Y4U (Youth for Unity) interfaith circle; Generation Peace Network; PeaceTech; Xaverian Missionaries; Young Peace Society; Phil. Wiccan Society; St. Scholastica’s College; New Horizon Integrated School, and the Binhi ng Kapayapaan (“seed of peace”) Youth Peace Camp.

read more: http://www.interfaithyouthcirclemanila.blogspot.com/

Updates from TULAY CC - Bohol, Phils

Reported by Ms. Marjorie Angalot

TRUST, UNDERSTANDING & LEARNING AMONG YOUTH (TULAY) CC

I. Outreach at Tagbilaran Dumpsite

On 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 interacting with the children and youth as well. We also had the chance to make an ocular inspection of the environment and witnessed the solid waste management situation of the city. We were suddenly moved to plan on what we can to do in response to the global climate crisis. Although the condition of the people there were rather disheartening, it was somehow a relief to see the smiles of gratitude on their faces in response to our humble gesture.

II. Self-Transformation & Youth Leadership Seminar

In the hope of awakening our higher potentials, the “Trust, Understanding and Learning Among Youth” (TULAY) CC and the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation of Bohol jointly sponsored a 2-day “Self-Transformation and Youth Leadership” seminar last May 24-25, 2008 in Tagbilaran City. The speaker of the said affair was no less than Mr. Vicente Hao Chin, Jr., president of the Manila-based Theosophical Society in the Philippines.

III. Planning meeting

Last 11 June 2008, the TULAY CC members once again had a meeting at Jojie’s restaurant, Tagbilaran City. Being one of those who attended the URI-SEAP 4th Regional Meeting and witnessed the launching of Interfaith Sector of Cebu City, Ms. Marjorie Angalot recounted how she felt privileged and honored to represent the youth CC and shared about the accomplishments of the said meeting/workshop, and about her experiences of meeting new friends, of tasting different kinds of food from different faith traditions and cultures, and of engaging in the challenge to serve for the purpose and vision of URI.

The members thought of creating a logo for TULAY CC. Each member is encouraged to submit his/her own design and the official logo will eventually be chosen next month. They also reached the idea of holding fund-raising activities hence, sponsoring educational movies or supporting a band music competition in July, in time of the Bohol Sandugo festival. Other mutual learning and bridge-building activities considered are tree planting and another visit to the dumpsite.

(see also: www.uripilipinas.blogspot.com/2008/06/tulay-cc-updates-dec-2007-june-2008.html and www.tulaycc6uri.multiply.com)

Updates from PAKIGDAIT CC - Mindanao, Phils.

Maranao Language Program MOA signed
Looking 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 them to communicate more effectively with the Muslims in Lanao and to instill cultural sensitivity and understanding among the men in uniform as they will be immersed in the values and traditions of the Maranaos.


Pakigdait CC has been at the forefront in the declaration of March as the Lanao Month of Peace. This year’s celebration saw a series of activities spread throughout the whole month. Among these was the Panagtagbo sa Kalinaw (“Gathering for Peace”), a traditional convergence of religious, traditional leaders, women, youth and local government unit (LGU) officials through a colorful traditional parade at the Provincial capitol on March 17, 2008.

On March 26, 2008 over 60 cyclists travelled a distance of about 80 kilometers from Iligan City to the Provincial Capitol of Lanao del Norte—as they symbolized the movement of civil society organizations (CSO) in partnership with LGUs in their athletic rush towards attaining goals of peacebuilding in the province. This activity was the Bike for Peace program, the first of its kind in Lanao!


Seeing the religious personalities and leaders as the appropriate “disseminators” of peace using the pulpits in churches and mosques, Pakigdait CC conducted on March 24, 2008 the Pastors, Priests, Imams and Nuns (PPIN) conference where participants were trained to facilitate interfaith dialogues at the grassroots level.

After a series of consultation and planning sessions, the successful conference bore fruit with the creation of an Interfaith Council which comprised of 13 faith leaders from Iligan City and all over the province of Lanao del Norte. An Interfaith Covenant for Peace and Unity was composed and signed by the council members to seal their solidarity and commitment to work together in proactive cooperation and harmony.

Equally valuing the youth sector for its crucial role in peacebuilding Pakigdait CC gathered them in a two-day Interfaith Youth Convergence on April 22-23, 2008. With the conviction that if properly mobilized the peace-builder in the youth would eventually break the cycle of violence plaguing the province for generations—Pakigdait engaged the youth participants in workshops and activities that fostered their commitment for peace.

As a result, an Interfaith Youth Council was created composed of youth leaders and representatives from the different municipalities of Lanao del Norte.

On April 25-26, 2008 Pakigdait went on a Historical Journey to “expand the horizon for peace” by visiting historical sites for peace and conflict in and around the province. The activity aimed at rediscovering the past in order to more deeply understand the present (especially the conflict situation), and to be able move forward into the future with clarity and conviction.

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(for more info check out www.pakigdait.org )