'via Blog this'
Starting off with a group of Muslim and Christian friends joining Fr. D'Ambra in a dialogue, the movement has steadily grown on the grassroots level and has been involved actively and dynamically in fostering interfaith harmony and reconciliation in the Philippines for almost 30 years. Despite adversities such as the killing of its members, the movement has contributed significantly to building a culture of dialogue over the years, leading to the recent signing of the Framework Agreement for peace in Mindanao between the Philippine government and the Moro National Liberation Front. Silsilah is an Arabic word which literally means "chain" or "link". As used by the Sufis (Muslim mystics), it describes a process of attaining an experience of the Divine. It also implies spiritual linkage of humanity as created by the same God. The movement proposes a "life-in-dialogue," which encompasses dialogue with God, with self, with others and with creation. It encourages all people to undergo a process of personal transformation that leads to a social transformation. Silsilah offers various educational courses, seminars, training activities and exposure-immersion programs, reaching out to all sectors of society, including educators, youth, media, leaders, and the disadvantaged. Its initiatives not only focus on interfaith dialogue, but also on sustainable agriculture, environmental advocacy, holistic healthcare and a wide range of community services. Among the thousands of Muslim and Christian alumni who have participated in these programs, many of them are active in governments, NGOs, schools, religious communities and parishes. There are currently 18 Silsilah Forums formed by alumni and friends of the movement that are promoting the culture of dialogue and peace in different areas in the Philippines and beyond. For more information about the Silsilah Dialogue Movement, please visit: www.silsilahdialogue.com About the Goi Peace Foundation Established in Tokyo, Japan in 1999, the Goi Peace Foundation is a public benefit organization with a mission to support the evolution of humanity toward a peaceful and harmonious new civilization. Through various educational and outreach programs, it promotes consciousness, values and wisdom for creating peace, and builds cooperation among individuals and organizations across diverse fields, including education, science, culture and the arts. The Foundation is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. It also maintains official relations with UNESCO. Website: www.goipeace.or.jp May Peace Prevail On Earth! |
Dedicate a Peace Pole! Join the Peace Pole Network The World Peace Prayer Society 26 Benton Road Wassaic, New York 12592 |
