Muslim and Christian leaders against prejudices, for “still possible” peace in Mindanao
Manila (AsiaNews/CBCP) – Mindanao-based interfaith groups reiterated their call for understanding between the country’s Christians and Muslims. This requires overcoming prejudice and reconciling with others to achieve peace in the south and bring to an end decades of civil strife.
The Inter Faith Council of Leaders (IFCL) of the Silsilah Dialogue Movement in Zamboanga City urged Filipinos – Christians and Muslims alike – to work together. They reiterated the importance of humility and wisdom in the attainment of peace, calling for unity and collaboration despite cultural, religious, and individual differences.
“It is time to invite Christians in Mindanao and the rest of the Philippines to overcome prejudice against Muslims, a prejudice becoming deeper than ever. The same effort has to be done by the Muslims and the IPs towards others outside their own groups,” the council said.
Mindanao’s Christian and Muslim leaders note that tensions are undermining the region’s peace process. In recent weeks, violence has flared up again on the island.
They call on the parties concerned to be more open to compromise, and “not remain rigid in their positions”.
Although there is a “clear formula for peace in Mindanao", the interfaith group leaders called on the leaders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to "accept" the offer made by Filipino authorities as "a good starting point."
They also call on the various Islamist rebel groups to find a common point and work together, speaking with one voice, to promote peace talks and build a "pluralistic" society in Mindanao.
Christian and Muslim leaders end their message with an invitation to humility and wisdom in order to avoid violent conflicts. In their view, since “peace is still possible,” the Philippines should be a model of coexistence between cultures and religions.
Established in May 1984 by Fr Sebastiano d'Ambra, a PIME missionary, the Silsilah Dialogue Movement has played a crucial role in fostering cultural awareness, as well as training and sharing.
Silsilah has sought to ease tensions and quell outbreaks of violence from its headquarters in the "Village of Harmony" on the outskirts of Zamboanga, southern Philippines.
The Philippines is the only Asian country with a Catholic majority, but with a large Muslim community of some six million people.
This task is rooted in the very name of the movement, which means the "chain" or "bond" that unites man to God and is inspired by Sufi mysticism.
.png)
06/05/2024 18:26
