The Peacemakers' Circle news updates

Peacemakers celebrate URI's 11th Anniversary

2011-11-01T21:42:00.000-07:00

June 28, 2011 (Tuesday)

In celebration the 11th anniversary (June 26th) of the charter-signing of the global grassroots network---United Religions Initiative (URI)-- The Peacemakers' Circle, in cooperation with the URI Southeast Asia-Pacific regional office, gathered members and friends to its regular Tuesday Inner Work Circle for an open evening of interfaith prayers, video viewing, friendship-buidling and sharing.

The Peacemakers' Circle, a cooperation circle and founding member of URI, did not expect a big turn out of around 30 people in the intimate celebration that saw old-time members who brought along their friends from different faith communities. As a way of spreading the awareness they were asked to bring newcomers to the circle for them to be introduced to local and global interfaith peacebuilding work by personally meeting and building friendships among each other.

Among those who came were friends from the United Muslim-Christian Peacemakers' Association of Tala, Caloocan; Shumei Philippines; Filipino Buddhist community; Sanib Lakas Foundation; and regular attendees of the Tuesday Inner Work Circle.

Among new friends who attended were from: Ateneo Student Catholic Action; Metropolitan Community Church (an LGBT Christian group); and the Philippine Independent Church.

During the sharing around the circle, many among the new comers expressed joy and gratitude for having been introduced to the interfaith community and were inspired and affirmed by the experience of witnessing warm and sincere relationships among people of different faith traditions.

In the spirit of URI, it is hoped that interfaith friendships continue to grow towards enduring cooperation and harmonious synergy for a better world in the many more years of celebration to come.

Happy Anniversary once again to the global interfaith family of URI!

see the rest of the photos at: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.162203047182092.39770.134984369903960&type=1

Interfaith Synergy for the Environment @Kamayan Forum

2011-06-21T20:34:00.000-07:00

On 3rd Friday, June 17, 2011 The Peacemakers' Circle was invited to participate in the monthly environmental forum, Kamayan Para Sa Kalikasan, whereby the theme chosen for the month was Interfaith Views and Efforts for the Environment.

Three of the Peacemakers' Circle board members comprised the panel of speakers, namely: Dr. Abdulhusin "Jo" Kashim (for Islam); Dr. Shakuntala Vaswani (Hinduism); and
Ms. Tomomi Shima (Shumei -Japanese spiritual organization).

Each of them shared about basic teachings from their faiths regarding care for the Earth, and also answered the question:"How have the various Religions and Faith Traditions led and helped their respective flocks become more loving and effective stewards of God's Creation? Is Inter-Faith Synergy possible?"

Truly, synergy and cooperation among different faiths is possible while the forum saw a universal teaching of stewardship and respect for the integrity of creation across religions and spiritual traditions.

Given the opportunity to speak by passing the microphone, each one contributed his/her own views and insights on the topic. Among the highlights of the sharing from the participants was on the wisdom of local indigenous culture and spirituality that demonstrates deep and direct care and sacredness of the environment.

Kamayan para sa Kalikasan is convened jointly by CLEAR Communicators for the Environment and SanibLakas ng mga Aktibong Lingkod ng Inang Kalikasan (SALIKA), with full sponsorship from the Kamayan Restaurant. It has been held on the Third Friday of every month, since March 1990, at the Kamayan-EDSA, near SEC/Ortigas, Mandaluyong City, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. It runs in three distinct portions, and everyone in attendance is given time at the microphone. SALIKA Founding President Marie R. Marciano moderates.

Symphony of Peace Prayers - Manila 2011

2011-05-29T22:53:00.000-07:00

The 7th annual Symphony of Peace Prayers (SOPP) on Global Peace Meditation and Prayer Day / World Shift Day-- May 22, 2011 (Sunday) -- was joyously celebrated in Manila, Philippines at the Environmental Science Institute Conference Hall of Miriam College Quezon City.

More than 80 people from different faith groups, organizations and institutions participated in the event that was synchronized with the grand SOPP of the Byakko Shinko Kai at the Fuji Sanctuary in Japan, kicking-off the 24-hour worldwide prayer marathon that involves more than 500 different groups in various locations in over 80 countries.

On its fourth year (since SOPP began to be staged locally outside Japan in 2008) SOPP Manila has been organized by the Mandala Peace Arts Initiative, Inc. (MPAI), in partnership with The Peacemakers’ Circle Foundation, Inc. (TPCFI), United Religions Initiative in Southeast Asia-Pacific (URI-SEAP), and several other peace groups and faith organizations... read more

Earthday 2011 Sandiwang Interfaith Celebration on Easter Sunday

2011-04-25T20:35:00.000-07:00

On March 24, 2011 (Easter Sunday) Earth Day was celebrated with the yearly Sandiwang (Isang Diwa ng Pagdiriwang para sa Kalikasan), an interfaith gathering organized by the Earth Day Network-Philippines.

The whole day program started with interfaith prayers from over 20 different groups and civil society organizations who offered solidarity prayers from their faith tradition. This was signaled by ringing of the Peace Bell by the Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista.

Among the faith groups present were: Baha'i' Faith; Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University; Brazilian Catholic Order; Day of Pentecost Church of Jesus Christ; Diliman Bible Church; Golden Cross Curcillo; H-World United Nations Military Philippine Government; IESU; House of Inter-Faith; Iglesia Ni Kristo; International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON/Hare Krishna); Multi-Tribal Movement in the Philippines, Inc. (Muslim); Persons with Disabilities Federation, Inc; Philippine Dao De Gong, Inc.; Samahang Bagong Babaylan; Shinji Shumei Kai; Pamayanang Saniblakas; Victorious Chosen People Ministry, Inc.; United Religions Initiative SEAP; and The Peacemakers' Circle.

There were booths set up by the various participating organizations. Tree seedlings were given away, discounted eco-products and wellness services well demonstrated and offered.

There were talks and performances were presented throughout the day.

The afternoon was concluded with community Earth dancing and vortex meditation walk around the fountain.

For more photos check out: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/fbx/?set=a.145055502230180.32797.134984369903960&l=765f5fa0d2

Interfaith Dialogue at Quakers' Asia-Pacific Gathering

2011-04-25T19:58:00.000-07:00

April 4, 2011 (Monday)

The Religious Society of Friends -- otherwise known as Quakers-- invited The Peacemakers' Circle to facilitate an interfaith dialogue session during their Asia-Pacific regional gathering (April 2 to 7, 2011) held at the Bukal ng Tipan Maryhill Retreat Center in Taytay, Rizal.

The Peacemakers' Circle brought together three speakers from different religions to the forum, namely: Prof. Julkipli Wadi from the University of the Philippines Institute of Islamic Studies; Ven. Vincent Taguinod (Mahayana Buddhist) from the Universal Wisdom Foundation; and Dr. Shakuntala Vaswani (Hindu) of The Peacemakers' Circle and United Religions Initiative.

Beginning with the provocative powerpoint presentation on Images of Conflict and Visions of Peace, the audience was given a visual context of the theme for the afternoon.

Each speaker then shared on the significance of peace, interfaith dialogue and coexistence based on the teachings from their respective faith traditions. This was followed by small group discussions on what struck them from what they saw (on the powerpoint video) and what they heard (from the speakers), and what is the significance of interfaith dialogue in their own faith.

An open forum followed as participants from each group shared and posed questions for the panel to answer and expound on. It was an engaging interaction between the delegates and the speakers that left everyone with a general sense of deep gratitude for an enlightening session of interfaith dialogue.

Culminating Program of Muslim-Christian Grassroots Leadership

2011-04-25T18:06:00.000-07:00

On April 2, 2011 (Saturday) The Peacemakers' Circle celebrated the culmination of the Muslim-Christian Grassroots Leadership Programs and honored 75 youths and 16 leaders from the four grassroots communities of Tala, Caloocan City; Culiat, Quezon City; Maharlika & Upper Bicutan, Taguig City; and Quiapo, Manila.

In partnership with the Miriam College Center for Peace Education, and supported by the United Religions Initiative-Southeast Asia-Pacific, and the Australian Embassy in Manila, the event was held at the ESI Conference Hall of Miriam College in Quezon City.

The 75 Muslim and Christian youths were participants of a 10-session training program entitled Strengthening Interfaith Youth Leadership under the URI Bowes Award project that was awarded to The Peacemakers' Circle. The young participants came from two communities: 44 youths were from Tala, Caloocan City; and 31 from Culiat, Tandang Sora, Quezon City. The program started in October 2010 where each community separately under went twice-a-month sessions of the same content. Towards the end of the program that two communities were merged.

During the culminating event each community showcased their talents in order to present a synthesis of what they learned about throughout the training. The audience were awe-inspired and touched by the creative presentations these talented youths painstakingly prepared for just a few weeks. They presented dances, drama, and songs which were intertwined to convey their messages of peace, unity and understanding. One of the most moving presentation was the doxology or dance interpretation of a prayer song that was performed by Muslim and Christian girls.

The event also highlighted the recognition of the 16 Muslim-Christian grassroots leaders who have finished the training under the Strengthening Grassroots Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding Program of the Australian Embassy. This 9-month program consisted of twice-a-month action-reflection sessions with four Muslim-Christian leaders each from the four communities mentioned.

In gratitude for their support in the work of The Peacemakers' Circle a plaque of appreciation was also awarded to the Australian Embassy in Manila.

Towards the end of the program the youths and elders took pledge to continue striving to become peacemakers in their respective interfaith communities and being the change they wish to see in the world.

To see more photos check out: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/fbx/?set=a.142539922481738.29390.134984369903960&l=f66ef9b47f

Interfaith Prayers for Japan

2011-04-25T03:30:00.000-07:00

On March 28, 2011 (Monday) The Peacemakers' Circle participated in an interfaith prayer service for the healing of Japan and the rest of the ailing nations in the world.

Held at the front of the Japan Embassy in Manila, the simple yet very meaningful event was spearheaded by the Association of Major Religious Superiors of the Philippines (AMRSP) in cooperation with partner organizations such as the College of St. Benilde Social Action Center.

A special participation to note was the presence of youth representatives from the Muslim-Christian Youths for Peace and Development (MCYPD) of Tala, Caloocan who brought with them and offered the origami lotuses their young community previously made out of collected prayers for Japan which they have folded into the paper flowers used in the ceremony.

The occasion was also graced by the presence of leaders from different religions who offered prayers from their faith traditions, namely: Mrs. Shakuntala Vaswani (Hindu); Ven. Vincent Taguinod (Buddhist); Baba Surinder Singh (Sikh); Mr. Alan Berguia (Muslim); Mrs. Martha Taylor (Baha'i' Faith); Mrs. Tomomi Shima (Shinji Shumei Kai); and of course the religious sisters from the different Catholic congregations.

Live musical accompaniment were provided by Sanghabi, Ms. Sarah Queblatin and Ms. Nota.

The ceremony was capped-off by candle-lighting.

to see more photos click here:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/fbx/?set=a.1706995719517.2085733.1376771160&l=0a4a768dcf

Peacemakers at the Movies...(Robin Padilla film-screening)

2011-04-25T03:09:00.000-07:00

March 24th (Thursday) 7:00pm

The Peacemakers' Circle was honored to have been invited to a special screening for the interfaith community of
TUM: MY PLEDGE OF LOVE
latest film directed and produced by the action star himself, Mr. Robin Abdul Aziz Padilla, together with his new wife, Ms. Mariel Rodriguez-Padilla.
Known to be the first Filipino film shot almost entirely in India, TUM speaks of the message that resonates well with the advocacy of The Peacemakers' Circle about peace, interfaith harmony and unity amidst diversity.

Before the viewing the couple autographed a framed poster of the film and awarded it to The Peacemakers' Circle which was received by its founder/executive director, ms. Marites Africa, who --on behalf of the officers and members, including the grassroots youths and leaders from the various communities present in the event-- thanked Mr. & Mrs. Padilla for the relevant work they have put into the film and for recognizing the organization.

to see more photos click here:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/fbx/?set=a.138490049553392.27689.134984369903960&l=4e9def03be

Muslim-Christian Youths of Tala and Culiat First Joint Session

2011-04-25T00:54:00.000-07:00

On March 12, 2011 (Saturday) March 12, 2011 (Saturday) 8am-5pm

For the first time, the Muslim & Christian youths of Culiat and Tala were gathered together through The Peacemakers' Circle in a whole-day session amidst the lush forest park of the La Mesa watershed in Fairview, Quezon City.

The youths from the two communities are participants of the 10-session Strengthening Interfaith Youth Leadership training-- supported by the United Religions Initiative (URI) Bowes Award program-- which began in October 2010 and will culminate on April 2011. Twice a month the two communities held their sessions separately but now the 70 youths have had the opportunity to interact with their Muslim and Christian counterparts from the other community.

The session was facilitated by Ms. Sarah Queblatin, together with co-artist Russell Maier, and Peacemakers' Circle coordinators, Orlan de Guzman, Jr. and Alan Berguia.

The youths were engaged in dialogue and heart listening, as well as community arts and co-creative mandala installation.

Towards the end of the day, the session was concluded with a closing ritual in a circle around the community art work where the youths touched the ground and in interfaith prayers, affirmations and silence offered blessings and healing to the Earth and all beings, especially those who are facing hardships amidst social and environmental conflicts.

Special thanks for the full support of the Muslim-Christian Peacemaker elders of Tala who lovingly guided, accompanied the youths and prepared the food for everyone!

for more photos check out:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/fbx/?set=a.1650447185839.2083211.1376771160&l=33ca41483e

Interfaith Women's Dialogue Circle on Women's Day

2011-03-15T23:25:00.000-07:00

The International Women's Day this year was celebrated not just by women but also by men and youths from different faiths at the open evening session of the Tuesday Inner Work Circle which featured an Interfaith Women's Dialogue Circle held on March 8, 2011 at The Peacemakers' Circle.

With the theme:"The Role of Women in my Faith," insightful sharings from different spiritual traditions were heard. Among those who shared were: Sr. Ma. Arnold Noel, SSPS for Christianity; Sis. Rose Uy and Sis. Eda Valt from the Brahma Kumaris; Ms. Raquel Castillo from the Baha'i' Faith; Dr. Shakun Vaswani from Hinduism; Ms. Tomomi Shima from Shumei.

Ms. Marwan Pialda and Alan Berguia (Muslim youths from Culiat); Mr. Sangkyu Lee (Jeung San Do); and Mr. Reimon Cosare (Tibetan) also shared from their faith traditions. Some also shared reflections on gender harmony and egalitarian spirituality.

It was an enlightening and heartwarming evening of dialogue, solidarity, bonding, and gender harmony that was capped off by sharing of vegetarian snacks and lively conversations.

Invitation to Interfaith Women's Circle on Women's Day

2011-02-28T17:42:00.000-08:00

cordially invite you to celebrate the International Women's Month

with an Open Evening of

Interfaith Women's
Dialogue Circle

on

" The role of women in my faith"

featuring sharings from:
Brahma Kumaris, Baha'i', Sikh, Shumei, Christian & Muslim faiths

5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday,
Women's Day - March 8, 2011

at The Peacemakers' Circle
(Unit 105, PhilDHRRA Partnership Center, #59 Salvador St., Varsity Hill Subd., Loyola Heights, Quezon City)

PLEASE CONFIRM ATTENDANCE
Contact the Peacemakers' Circle office via Tel. 920-7622 / Mobile: 0918-7822805 (smart)/ 0926-7296322 (globe)
or email: peacemakerscircle_uri@yahoo.com

www.peacemakerscircle.blogspot.com

THANK YOU!

World Interfaith Harmony Week first celebration

2011-02-16T01:42:00.000-08:00

For the first celebration of the World Interfaith Harmony Week (February 1-7), The Peacemakers' Circle, in cooperation with United Religions Initiative in Southeast Asia-Pacific (URI-SEAP) conducted a series of activities throughout the week.

Welcoming the Lunar New Year, The Peacemakers' Circle co-organized with cultural workshop group, Sanghabi, a "Temple Hippity-Hopping!" (ushering the Year of the White Metal Rabbit) held on Feb.2, 2011 (Thursday).

A Buddhist, a Muslim, a Catholic, and Indigenous/Folk Spirituality practitioners visited 5 Tibetan Buddhist and Chinese Buddhist temples around Sta. Mesa and Chinatown in Manila, namely: Philippine Karma Kagyu Buddhist Society (Tibetan); Philippine Nyingma Palyul Tibetan Buddhist Temple; Seng Guan temple (Chinese Buddhist); Simbahan ng Santo Sing Kong (Chinese ecumenical church); and the Manila Buddhist (Chinese) temple. (see more photos at: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2079506&id=1376771160&l=96eccd6126)

On February 5, 2011 (Saturday) The Peacemakers' Circle joined forces with the United Muslim-Christian Peacemakers Association (UMCPA) of Tala to gather their youth group, the Muslim-Christian Youths for Peace and Development (MCYPD) in an Interfaith Harana (Friendship Serenade/visit to Faith Centers).

As early as 6:00am in the morning, around 20 youth and elder members of UMCPA & MCYPD started to board the hired jeepney and were about to leave their grassroots community of Tala in Caloocan City. Some of the youths were very excited about the trip that they got up as early as 1:00am to prepare-- a few never even got to sleep due to the excitement. It was not just because we were asking them to perform their dance for an audience but more because they knew they were going to visit two different communities of different religions which they were so unfamiliar with-- the Baha'i Faith and Sikhism.

At the Bahaí Center in Malate, Manila, the group were warmly welcomed by the Baha'i' community, in particular their youths. The short program started with interfaith prayers led by UMCPA elders, Pres. Eric Tomarompong (Muslim) and Nay Loreta Borlongan (Christian), while a youth sang a Bahaí prayer. After a brief orientation on the Bahai Faith and an explanation about the World Interfaith Harmony Week celebration, introductions were made around the circle.

This was followed by the highlight of the program: the Muslim and Christian youths then offered their gift of friendship-- a Muslim Maranao traditional dance called Singkil. The performance was warmly and heartily received by everyone. The deep feeling of gratitude and oneness spontaneously broke into a community song: We Are One Family.

Come noontime the group bid farewell to their new friends in the Bahai community as they made their way to the Luneta park for a picnic lunch. As one spends the day together with the group one cannot help but feel that they are truly more than just a Muslim-Christian organization-- they are one big happy Muslim-Christian FAMILY.

In the afternoon yet another exciting new experience awaited the young group as they visited and entered for the first time a Sikh Gurudwara (temple).

The Sikhs are famous for their open kitchen as part of their spiritual practice so the group was able to experience sitting on the floor and being served with the deliciously spicy Indian food. After the physical bodies were fed, food for the spirit was then served as they were toured inside the worship hall of the temple and were oriented to the basic teachings of the Sikh faith. At this point they were joined by Peacemakers' Circle members who are seminarians from the Xaverian missionary (Catholic) and who were also participating in the visitation.

Capping off the visit and offering their gratitude and gift of friendship to the Sikh community, the youths presented an action song of love, peace and freedom (in Tagalog) which said something like:

"Love flowing like the stream is my spirit. Peace waving like the sea is my spirit. Freedom soaring like the bird is my spirit."

Young spirits did soar, wave and flow as seen in the eyes, heard in the laughter and felt in the company of this remarkable group that day and in the remaining days of the World Interfaith Harmony Week.

(view more photos here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2079508&id=1376771160&l=f6f470fc2a)

Beyond Differences: a URI interfaith, intercultural, international concert

2011-02-16T01:19:00.000-08:00

The United Religions Initiative (URI), a global network of change makers, is celebrating a decade of building cultures of peace and healing around the world and to commemorate this milestone the leaders of Cooperation Circles in the Southeast Asia Pacific region will be gathering in Manila this November to strengthen their commitments and celebrating their successes. The culminating activity of this 4-days meeting will be an inspirational evening of music and dance “Beyond Differences” to celebrate our oneness in diversity and to raise funds for our programs to serve grassroots communities.

We take pleasure in inviting you to join us in our Celebration Concert on November 27, 2010, a first of its kind, in the Philippines featuring music and dance from different cultures and faiths. Some of the our regional talents include world renowned Dya Singh of the Dya Singh World Music Group together with Jarran Blow, an aborigine from Australia on the Didgeridoo, music as well as dances from Bali, Cambodia, Malaysia, India and the Philippines.

The concert will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 27, at the CAP I Auditorium on the 7^th floor, (behind the Makati Med.) Makati City and will last approximately two hours.

The proceeds from this event will be utilized to give seed grants to empower the women and youths in grass root communities to build bridges of understanding and transform religious tension/conflicts into a positive social change. Kindly visit our website: www uri.org to learn more about activities.

In this context we would greatly appreciate your support through a donation/purchase of pledge tickets which are suggested @ Php 250 (not a fixed amount) and is equivalent to one pledge for peace. We would greatly appreciate your support and hope you can purchase some tickets for yourself, family & friends, as all the proceeds go to Interfaith building work. You can also just pledge an amount in case you are unable to attend the event.

Thanks in advance for your kind support & generosity towards building the foundations for world peace!

Strengthening Grassroots Interfaith Dialogue & Understanding #3

2011-02-16T00:18:00.000-08:00

Muslim-Christian Christmas Party

2011-02-15T22:45:00.000-08:00

Yes, you read it right. It's a CHRISTMAS party celebrated by MUSLIM and CHRISTIAN adult and youth members of these unique grassroots family of organizations (there's three of them-- as indicated in the invitation).

For several years we tried to formally call it a YEAR-ENDER get-together, because being interfaith means being careful (with words and actions) not to brush over on anyone's sensitivities. But however discreetly we have chosen the title for the event, the lay person (the Muslims included) cannot help but simply refer to it for what it practically is-- a Christmas party. And the Muslim members themselves don't mind calling it that at all.

On December 11, 2010 (Saturday) it was my first time to attend the "Christmas party" of the Muslim-Christian community of Brgy. 188, Phase 12, Tala, Caloocan, ever since The Peacemakers' Circle started its work there in 2003. When they officially registered at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as the Muslim-Christian Peacemakers Association, Inc. their membership then was only around 30. Now a second batch of around 20 members have also already registered to the SEC, and are now called the United Muslim-Christian Peacemakers Association, Inc. (Why they had to register separately? It's a requirement so that they can avail of the Self-Employment Livelihood Assistance Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.)

Seven years later their third (and probably their most precious) organization was born: the Muslim-Christian YOUTHS for Peace and Development. Now for the first time also the Muslim-Christian year-ender (or should i just say Christmas) party of Tala was hosted and enlivened by these youths!

It was indeed awe-inspiring to witness these youths in action as they emceed, presented dance numbers, and even led in feeding all members and guests in the gathering. The adult members were so relaxed and laid back as they watched their soon-to-be successors take the lead.

The youths prepared (and practiced for so many nights) several entertainment numbers for the program-- a folk dance from the Christian lowland culture, a traditional dance of the Muslim tribe, and a modern hiphop dance to complete their range of genre. Of course, the adults did not want to be left behind so they also presented an Igorot-inspired (indigenous highland) dance, as well as a Curacha dance number.

And what is a Christmas party if not with.."EXCHANGE GIFTS"?! Aside from the food, what really completed the gathering was the gift-giving.

They asked only those who are interested to join the "exchange-gifts" to bring a gift to giveaway, so that, in turn, they receive one by drawing a random number. The exchanging for the adult members were separate from that of the youths.

It was an overwhelmingly heartwarming feeling to watch this remarkable grassroots community come together in a celebration of giving-- not minding the religious label of the occasion-- but only grasping the very essence of it.

When one of the Muslim leaders handed me a present (lovingly wrapped in Christmas paper) and said it was for me, from him, it was then that it hit me...

Now this is what I call INTERFAITH!

There I was in a middle of an actual interfaith dialogue-- not of a theological discourse, but a Dialogue of Life. An Interfaith Dialogue of Life where the spirit of Joy, the spirit of Giving, the spirit of Oneness, was celebrated above and beyond religious, cultural, or socio-economic boundaries.

It was truly an affirmation that harmony and unity amidst diversity is possible and it is already being LIVED in this humble community in Tala.

Towards the end, the members-- youths and adults, Muslims and Christians-- started to dance as their joy and excitement could not be contained. They were so happy simply to be gathered together-- all three sub-organizations-- as one big happy family.

If not for viels and kupyas, they would no longer be distinguishable because of what they wore: a present in their arms, a smile on their faces, and the warmth of giving in their hearts.

I cannot wait to attend their Eid-ul Fitr' celebration...

Peacemakers' Circle main projects at latter half of 2010

2010-11-22T19:37:00.000-08:00

1. The Peacemakers' Circle organized and hosted the workshop-forum on Consulting the People: PEOPLE'S AGENDA FOR PEACE IN MINDANAO at the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) last June 21 (Monday). This project was funded by The Asia Foundation. It had Fr. Albert Alejo SJ (and his team from KONSULT MINDANAW) present the results of the series of grassroots consultations--conducted among Muslims, Christians and Indigenous Peoples (or Lumads)--that were held all over Mindanao for the Bishops-Ulama Conference (BUC) in 2008. The whole-day workshop-forum yielded inspiring feedback (from the 80 participants representing various sectors of society in MIndanao and the National Capital Region) on how to move the dialogue initiative forward so that it will serve as a guide for the crafting of a peace agenda by the new Philippine President-elect Aquino.

2. On June 15 (Tuesday), The Peacemakers' Circle conducted the first of the series of 20 workshop-sessions for 16 grassroots Muslim and Christian leaders of the communities of Quiapo, Maharlika Village, Culiat and Tala. This was under the Australian Embassy's Strengthening Grassroots Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding (SGIDU) Program. This is The Peacemakers' Circle's 3rd project funded by SGIDU in 3 years. This project is entitled STRENGTHENING MUSLIM-CHRISTIAN PARTNERSHIPS IN GRASSROOTS COMMUNITY-BUILDING, and it aims to develop the community leaders' capacities to inspire the members of their respective communities, supervise and help ensure that the projects they decide to collective undertake (to meet the needs of their respective communities) will succeed. The workshops will be conducted twice a month for 10 months until March 2011.

3. Another project that has been launched recently by The Peacemakers' Circle is the Catholic INTRA-Faith Dialogue Module-Writing Workshop and Consultation Project funded by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP). This is geared towards helping to prepare Catholics for Interfaith Dialogue, particularly focusing on promoting awareness among Catholics of the need to reconcile and heal relationships with Muslims and other people of faith in the Philippines. The writing of the first draft of the training modules is underway, and the first consultation with a select group of religous, clergy and laity is scheduled on July 7 and 8. Part of the consultation meeting will be held at the Loyola School of Theology of the Ateneo de Manila University, through the support of Fr. Antonio de Castro SJ, and the approval of Fr. Mario Francisco SJ (President of LST). This is in partenrship with the Episcopal Commission on Interreligous Dialogue (ECID), and this will run until November of this year. It is hoped that the training modules will be conducted in the various parishes and grassroots communities around the country where Muslims and Christians live together as neighbors.

Reaching Out & Bending Over Backwards for Peace

2010-11-22T18:24:00.000-08:00

Muslim and Christian youths in the grassroots communities of Tala in Caloocan and Culiat in Quezon City have been getting together in their respective communities since October to participate in the "STRENGTHENING INTERFAITH YOUTH LEADERSHIP" Program of The Peacemakers' Circle.

The young leaders have been reaching out to one another in the spirit of fun and friendship in a 10-session creative peacebuilding workshop designed by Orlan de Guzman and Sharon Vaswani which Orlan is currently conducting with Alan Berguia, a young Muslim Community Coordinator of The Peacemakersâ Circle in Metro Manila.

This training program is part of the interfaith peace- and relationship-building work of The Peacemakers' Circle, and is being conducted in partnership with the United Religions Initiative (URI) in Southeast Asia-Pacific with funds from the URI Bowes Award that was granted to The Peacemakers' Circle in 2008 for this project.

Around thirty to forty Muslim and Christian youths (ages thirteen to twenty-five) from each of the grassroots communities of Culiat and Tala get together in their respective communities each week to sit in a circle and engage in inner work and self-awareness exercises that promote dialogue and heart listening for Muslim-Christian relationship-building. They reach out beyond their comfort zones to get to know each other, create a safe space and common ground where they can honor and respect each other's differences (while appreciating what they have in common), and bend over backwards in physical, mental and spiritual exercises that enable them to center themselves on the ways of peace.

The weekly three-hour sessions are looked forward to with much anticipation and joy by everyone involved in this project--the youth leaders as well as their elders--who take pride in being part of a transformative force for good in their community. They are working hand-in-hand in the community in support of each other's endeavors for peace.

It is with much hope that we at The Peacemakers' Circle carry on in this journey along the path of peace in the company of these inspiring young Muslim and Christian grassroots leaders who are well on their way to becoming a growing force for unity in diversity and harmony in our midst.

May our tribe increase, and may the Force be with us always!

-- Marites Africa (Nov. 15, 2010)

In the photos (top to bottom)--

1 & 2. L-R : Reaching out, bending over backwards in "Stillness in Motion"

3. L-R: Alan, Orlan, and Edmark (youth leader)

4. Members of the MUSLIM-CHRISTIAN YOUTH FOR PEACE &DEVELOPMENT of Tala

5 to 8: Muslim and Christian youth leaders in action together

Faith, Freedom and Free Will

2010-11-07T23:50:00.000-08:00

On October 26, 2010 (Tuesday)

The Peacemakers' Circle held an OPEN EVENING

of conversation and interfaith dialogue on

FAITH, FREEDOM, & FREE-WILL

Featuring faith sharers from the Hindu, Buddhist, Islam, and Christian Faith

The panel of speakers consisted of:

Ms. Marites Africa (founder/executive director of The Peacemakers' Circle Foundation, Inc.) who shared her views as a Christian

Mr. Emre Serbetci (Nur Factory & Dela Salle University) who share from the Islamic perspective

Dr. Shakuntala Vaswani (United Religions Initiative SEAP & The Peacemakers' Circle) who shared from the Hindu perspective

and a special visiting guest

Dr. Swee-Hin Toh (Peace Education Laureate from the University for Peace - Costa Rica) who shared his views as a Buddhist

World Peace Day 2010 in Manila

2010-10-19T22:39:00.000-07:00

The International Day of Peace 2010 in Manila was celebrated through several public activities throughout the Peace Consciousness Month of September.

Earth Dance Manila - Global Peace Festival (September 18-19, 2010)

On the weekend before World Peace Day, Manila joined countries in the global peace celebration called Earth Dance Festival that brought together artists, performers, ritualists, dancers, cultural creatives, peace workers, environmentalists, youths and different earth-lovers from all walks of life in an over-night gathering at the Bantayog ng mga Bayani Monument in Quezon City.

World Peace Prayer Society, Mandala Peace Arts Initiative, The Peacemakers' Circle, and United Religions Initiative booths

Activity and advocacy booths, as well as a green market enlivened the venue and engaged the public as they enjoyed music from a night-long concert that kicked-offed with interfaith prayers (led by The Peacemakers' Circle) and ritual dances, followed by performances from different traditions and genres.

ritualists offered chants and prayer dances to open the event

community dancing and music-jamming for unity and solidarity amidst diversity of traditions

Writing peace prayers on the big mandala cloth

booth of The Peacemakers' Circle and United Religions Initiative (URI-Southeast Asia-Pacific) include free healing by the Shinji Shumei Kai

night-long concert

With its theme: "Embracing All Traditions"-- the event highlighted an Inka Fire Ceremony at 3:00am and a global synchronized prayer for peace at 7:00am in the morning.

GenPeace Youth Peace Day Celebration (September 21, 2010)

With its theme for the year: "Sustaining the Youth's Engagement, Bridging the Peacebuilding Gaps" -- the Generation Peace Youth Network, with partner organizations-- including the World Peace Prayer Society Philippines and The Peacemakers' Circle-- led the celebration of World Peace Day in Manila at the Peace Bell Area of the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City.

Recognizing the different gaps (i.e. between youth and elder advocates, between apathetic and socially-active youth, etc.) the celebration saw a wide participation of different groups, civil society organizations, academe, government agencies, performing artists from all over Metro Manila and even as far as Visayas and Mindanao.

The program opened with interfaith prayers led by The Peacemakers' Circle and representatives from Christian, Muslim, Indigenous, Hindu, Brahma Kumaris, Tibetan Buddhist, Baha'i and Shumei faiths

Solidarity messages, honoring grassroots peacebuilders, exhibit booths, poetry reading, cultural presentations and musical renditions for peace-- offered by both youths and elders-- enlivened the program.

Dr. Shakun Vaswani (regional coordinator of URI-SEAP) presented to Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte a plaque of the Golden Rule stated in different faiths.

One of the highlights of the program is the presentation of a special Peace Pole by volunteers of World Peace Prayer Society Japan (WPPS) for the president of the Philippines through the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

Mr. Mario "Toots" Fungo (WPPS-Phils) introducing Ms. Yoshie Hagiwara (volunteer representative from WPPS-Japan) and Asec. Romie Halabaso (OPAPP) receiving the Peace Pole in behalf of the president

representatives from different peace organizations and goverment institutions pose with the peace pole

youngest performer was a Muslim girl

grassroots youth group rapping for peace

Dr. Loreta Castro of Miriam College Center for Peace Education

United Nations Information Center youth volunteers

Ms. Karen Tanada of GZO Peace Institute

Quezon City Brass Band

youth presentations

exhibit booths

The Peacemakers' Circle booth

Origame peace doves and peace message mosaic

The celebration culminated with potluck "community" lunch shared by everyone.

Baha'i celebration of Birth of the Bab (Oct.19, 2010)

2010-10-19T21:02:00.000-07:00

To all Baha'i friends,

HAPPY FEAST OF THE BIRTH OF THE BAB!

Every October 20, Baha'i's all over the world celebrate the Birth of the Bab. The Bab (which means "gate") was a holy man, a prophet and precursor who prepared the people for the coming of Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i Faith. The Bab can be compared to... John the Baptist (of the Christian faith) who foretold of the coming of Jesus.

Through creative drama & presentations led by youths, The Peacemakers' Circle learned more about the Bab and the Baha'i Faith during the program last October 19 at the Baha'i Center (1070 Roxas St., Singalong Subd., Malate, Manila).

Navratri celebration at the Hindu Temple (October 12, 2010)

2010-10-19T20:48:00.000-07:00

On October 12, 2010 (Tuesday) The Peacemakers' Circle and the Medicine for Gaia Cooperation Circle visited the Hindu Temple in Paco, Manila to join the fifth night of celebration of the Navratri Festival.

Navratri (meaning "nine nights") is a festival of nine consecutive nights in honor of the feminine aspects of God, in the personification of the three goddesses: Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati.

For more photos (c/0 Ishilta) click here

Peace in Diversity: Interfaith Youth Dialogue & Visit to the Ramadhan Fair

2010-09-21T23:21:00.000-07:00

On September 11, 2010 (Saturday) The Peacemakers' Y4U (youth for unity) and the United Religions Initiative - Southeast Asia-Pacific (URI-SEAP) celebrated "Peace in Diversity" with more than about 25 youths from diverse faiths and different nationalities and cultures in an Interfaith Youth Dialogue held at the Partnership Center in Loyola Heights, Quezon City.

The participants were Catholics, Protestants, Muslims, Hindus, Baha'i's and Multifaith youths from (aside from the Philippines) Malaysia, China, Myanmar, Laos, and Korea. They were representatives from the Institute of Formation Fondacio Asia (IFFA); Columban Missionary; Environmental Broadcast Circle Peace Program; Culiat Muslim community; and the Baha'i community.

After the dialogue circle, The Peacemakers' Y4U and members of IFFA proceeded to the Ramadhan Fair held at the Commission on Higher Education in UP Diliman to celebrate the Eidl Fitr with our Muslim brothers and sisters.

At the spur of the moment, the interfaith youths (who were mostly Christians) were able to dialogue and interact with Muslim youths from Culiat at the lobby...

YPEACE youth workshop on interfaith dialogue by US Embassy

2010-09-21T19:46:00.000-07:00

On August 30-31, 2010 The Peacemakers' Circle facilitated a two-day workshop on Youth Action for Interfaith Dialogue for young leaders from all over the country organized by the U.S. Embassy's Cultural Affairs Section. Below is an article about the event published at Philippine Daily Inquirer, written by Annelle Tayao...

‘It’s just opening ourselves to something as simple as conversation’ (PDI article by Annelle S. Tayao (First Posted 22:05:00 09/11/2010)

A SEMINARIAN, a Philippine Military Academy
student and the first woman president of Mindanao State University’s student government—they, with other youth leaders from all over the country, made their voices heard at the recent interreligious workshop “yPeace: Youth in Action for Interfaith Dialogue.”

Initiated by the US Embassy and facilitated by the Peacemakers’ Circle Foundation Inc., yPeace gathered 34 participants, some from as far as Tawi-Tawi, who, aside from representing schools and peace-related organizations, also served as spokespersons for their different faiths: Catholic, Protestant, Born-Again, Pentecostal, Church of Christ, Islam, as well as indigenous beliefs.

Held Aug. 30-31, the two-day intensive workshop was at Hyatt Hotel in Malate, Manila.

In group discussions and creative presentations, participants related personal stories on conflicts in their respective communities, and their hopes for better interreligious coexistence in the country...

(To read more check out this link:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/2bu/2bu/view/20100911-291586/Young-voices-joined-in-religious-harmony )

Dialogue Circle: Islam & Interfaith Relationship-Building

2010-09-05T23:03:00.000-07:00

Halfway through the holy month of Ramadan Muslims continue to fast from first light until sundown, abstaining from food and drink. The fasting during this time is regarded principally as a method of self purification. By denying oneself the worldly comforts of life and things desired for , a fasting person gains true sympathy with those who go hungry as well as growth in one's spiritual life.

The holy month of Ramadan unites all Muslims in fasting, worship and prayer. It is a time for contemplation, spirituality and brotherhood.

In honor of all Muslim peacemakers and in solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters who are observing Ramadhan, The Peacemakers' Circle organized an afternoon of

SOLIDARITY & DIALOGUE

with

Muslim and Christian grassroots community leaders

From Quiapo, Tala in Caloocan, Culiat and Maharlika Village in Taguig

MR. IKEBAL PATEL

of the AUSTRALIAN FEDERATION OF ISLAMIC COUNCILS

on

Islam & Interfaith Relationship-Building

Date: August 31 (Tuesday)
Time: From 2-4 o'clock in the afternoon
Venue: Ugnayan Hall, PhilDHRRA Partnership Center,
59 C. Savador St., Varsity Hills, Loyola Heights, QC.

PROGRAM OF ACTIVITIES:

1:30 p.m. - Arrival & Registration

2:00 - Opening Interfaith Prayers
- Welcome & Introductions

2:15 - WHAT RAMADAN MEANS TO MUSLIMS

by IMAM MAJ. EBRA MOXSIR, President of the
Imam Council of the Philippines

2:30 - Presentation of relationship-building efforts by
Muslims & Christians working together in
various grassroots communities in Metro Manila

3:00 - BEING A MUSLIM PEACEMAKER IN A MULTI-
RELIGIOUS & CULTURALLY DIVERSE SOCIETY
by MR. IKEBAL PATEL, Australian Federation of
Islamic Councils

3:15 - Dialogue Circle

4:00 - Closing Prayer

URI 10th Anniversary celebrated with Tree-Planting by Manila CCs

2010-09-05T22:58:00.000-07:00

In celebration of the

UNITED RELIGIONS INITIATIVE (URI)

10 years of enduring daily interfaith cooperation in creating cultures of peace and healing for the Earth and all living beings...

THE PEACEMAKERS' CIRCLE (a founding member/Cooperation Circle of URI)
through its interfaith youth arm, YOUTH FOR UNITY (Y4U) in partnership with MUSLIM-CHRISTIAN PEACEMAKERS ASSOCIATION CC,
the UNITED MUSLIM-CHRISTIAN PEACEMAKERS SEA-K,
and the MUSLIM-CHRISTIAN YOUTHS FOR PEACE & DEVELOPMENT

successfully conducted an interfaith community service program:

TREE-PLANTING
ECO-WASTE MANAGEMENT SEMINAR

for the benefit of the Ondoy-affected Muslim-Christian grassroots community of Tala
last JUNE 26th - Saturday, 8am - 12nn at Brgy. 188, Phase 12, Tala, Caloocan City

SOPP 2010: Global Peace Meditation & Prayer Day / World Shift Day

2010-05-11T19:56:00.000-07:00

Symphony of interfaith prayers for world peace 2010 in manila

In the heat of the summer sun on May 16th, 2010 at the Riverbanks Plaza of Marikina City, the Philippines once again participated in creating a wave of prayerful vibrations around the globe as the Global Peace Meditation and Prayer Day / World Shift Day was celebrated with the Symphony of peace prayers hosted by the Mandala Peace Arts Initiative (MPAI), and made possible by Byakko Shinko Kai, in partnership with The Peacemakers’ Circle Foundation, Inc. (PCFI) and the Riverbanks Center.

View complete report and photos here: http://sopppilipinas.blogspot.com/2010/05/sopp-2010-global-peace-meditation.html

Date:	Sunday, May 16, 2010
Time:	8:30am - 12:00pm
Venue:	Riverbanks Park, Marikina City

The Symphony of Peace Prayers (SOPP) is an inter-religious, intercultural and inter-spiritual public event that is open for all. On this day we honor and give gratitude to the beautiful peace prayers from different faith traditions (Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, etc.) in order to create and spread a wave of peace, harmony, light and love to all corners of the Earth, and to elevate the consciousness of all humanity, so that peace may be realized as soon as possible.

Since 2005, the main SOPP has been held at the Fuji Sanctuary in Japan hosted by the Byakko Shinko Kai (see: www.byakkoblog.typepad.com/sopp/).

Last year (2009), Manila was among the 400 locations from over 50 countries around the globe that participated in this powerful and moving worldwide synchronized event.

To help you remember last years' celebration, see photos below at earlier blog post... click here: Symphony of Global Peace Prayers 2009 celebration in Manila

Come join us again this year!

WE WELCOME REPRESENTATIVES FROM DIFFERENT FAITH TRADITIONS TO SIGN UP IF YOU WISH TO PARTICIPATE AND OFFER A PEACE PRAYER FROM YOUR FAITH TRADITION...

ARTISTS/PERFORMERS are also welcome to volunteer their talents to enliven the program..

Thank you and See you all again!

--Posted By Mandala Peace Arts Initiative - Manila

program of activities:

8:30 - Arrivals and registration

9:00 - Welcome, Introductions and Acknowledgments

9:15 - Opening the Sacred Space (Sayaw Bathala by neo-babaylan Prof. Grace Odal-Devora)

9:30 - Interfaith Prayers

- Kokyuho Ocean Breathing

- Budyong (Call to Prayer)

- Entering into Peaceful Silence (Guided Meditation by Brahma Kumaris)

- Hindu Prayer (Ms. Trishna Hemnani)

- Tibetan Buddhist Prayer (Mr. Reimon Cosare)

- Christian Prayer (Sr. Vida Cordero, SFIC)

- Islamic Prayer (Mr. Alan Berguia)

- Hare Krishna Prayer (ISCKON)

- Shumei Prayer (Ms. Tomomi Shima)

- Baha'i Faith Prayer (choral song)

10:00 - Global Prayers

- Prayer for a World Without Conflict

- Prayer for Humanity between Humanity and Nature

10:15 - Musical Upliftment by Green Kaya Band

10:30 - World Peace Prayer Flag Ceremony (Ms. Yeyette San Luis)

11:00 - Everyone Hand-in-hand in Silence

11:05 - Messages of Gratitude

11:15 - Sikh Prayer for Peace (Guru Nanak Mission)

11:20 - Greeting each other Gestures of Peace

11:30 - Sharing blessings of food (by ISCKON with Musical Upliftment & Chanting)

PLEASE CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDANCE Contact Orlan at telephone # 920-7622 or cellphone #0918-782-2805; or email peacemakerscircle_uri@yahoo.com. Thank you!

Taguig Feeding Program & Self-Development Workshops

2010-03-01T22:23:00.000-08:00

The feeding program for malnourished Muslim children of Maharlika Village was launched on August 9th, 2009 by the St. Joseph Parish & Caritas in partnership with the Muslim-Christian Peacemakers of Maharlika and the support of The Peacemakers' Circle Foundation, Inc.

On October 22nd, 2009 The Peacemakers' Circle distributed relief goods to the families in Maharlika affected by the typhoon Ondoy...

Among those affected are the families whose children are in the feeding program, as well as some of the Muslim-Christian volunteers of the project...

Nov. 4th, 2009 workshop
Part of the Feeding Program is a series of self-enrichment workshops conducted by The Peacemakers' Circle for the mothers and parents of the malnourished children...

Y4U ushers 2010 with iTrip gathering

2010-01-18T19:25:00.000-08:00

--- On Tue, 19/1/10, Youth for Unity (via Multiply) wrote:

Youth for Unity (info_y4u@yahoo.com) has posted a new album.

Y4U iTrip 2010 (12 photos)

Ringing in the new year with Y4U, 13 youths from different faiths (and nations!) gathered last January 9th, 2010 (Saturday) in the afternoon to hangout, chillax, meet, have fun, and plan activities for iTrip program of 2010.

The Peacemakers' Circle interfaith dialogue center played host to Y4U's first gathering for the year which started with interfaith prayers from the Christian, Catholic, Muslim, Shumei, Hindu and Earth faith traditions. It was indeed a colorful and diverse group not only in terms of religious affiliations, but because the youths came from different cultures as well-- Indian, Japanese, Indonesian, African, Mexican, Brazilian, aside from the local Pinoy!
View all
12 photos in
this album

audio reply video reply
Add a Comment

to view this article click here or copy this link: http://youth4unity.multiply.com/photos/album/14

Peacemakers help in Ondoy & Pepeng victims

2010-01-18T19:01:00.000-08:00

Last October 2, the Peacemakers Circle and its youth arm Youth 4 Unity joined forces to bring relief goods and aid from friends and donors to 500 Muslim and Christian families affected by Super Typhoon Ondoy (international name Ketsana) last September 26 in Tala, Caloocan City, Philippines. Noted as the worst flooding in the country with more rains dumped than Hurricane Katrina, Typhoon Ondoy brought about almost 300 dead and thousands displaced.

With eager anticipation, affected community members waited at the basketball court for the relief goods to be distributed. Macklis Bala of the Muslim Christian Peacemakers CC assisted in the relief distribution by calling out the names of the families needing aid.

Donations of food - noodles, crackers, juice, milk, and basic toiletries were distributed in packs for each family to help them go through immediate recovery while they rummage through
whatever they can revive from their damaged homes, furniture and appliances.

Because of the clear sign of climate change as cause for the extreme weather that caused the flooding, an orientation about how to segregate the wastes was given before distributing the goods in plastic bags, one of the main causes of pollution and climate change. Plastic bags were required by the National Disaster Coordinating Council which is why donated goods came in them. Waste from donated goods will be transformed into resource through funds to be generated from collected bottles, aluminum from canned goods, and paper from boxes, and residual plastics. Funds raised will be used to repair the damaged Mosque and Chapel in the
community.

Despite the grief, the members were still able to smile in between, a unique cultural character of Filipinos - always resilient despite all the natural and economic hurdles that come their way.

To read more about the stories of the community members of their experience of the flood, visit Marites Guingona Africa's blog on this link: http://uriseap.ning.com/profiles/blogs/the-river-flowed-through-it with photos on: http://uriseap.ning.com/photo/albums/typhoon-ondoy-affects-tala

Her account on the felief and aid at Tala on October 2, 2009 by the Peacemakers Circle Staff, Members and Friends can be read on this link:http://uriseap.ning.com/profiles/blogs/peacemakers-circle-gives-1 with photos on: http://uriseap.ning.com/photo/albums/peacemakers-circle-tala-relief

Youth-led World Peace Day celebration in Manila

2009-10-06T22:52:00.000-07:00

On September 21, 2009 Manila joined the rest of the world in celebrating the International Day of Peace. The celebration this year was extra special because it was organized and led by the youth!

The Peacemakers Circle Foundation, Inc. (PCFI) and the United Religions Initiative SEAP Regional Office partnered with lead convening organization, Generation Peace (GenPeace) youth network and its Peace NGO partners, student organizations, the staff of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, and the World March for Peace and Nonviolence, in coming up with a program held at the Peace Bell area of the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City.

As everyone gathered in a human peace sign the members of the Youth for Unity (Y4U) of the Peacemakers Circle led the interfaith prayers that set the mood for a contemplative celebration of peace. They also prepared copies of a mini brochure on the Ways of Peace for inner peace, harmony with others, and the healing of the earth that were given away during the event.

Peace Mosaic by Muslim and Christian Youth
Youth from the four communities under the PCFI Muslim-Christian Dialogue program -- Tala, Culiat, Quiapo, and Taguig-- painted peace tiles that were installed on the Peace Wall at the Quezon City Memorial Circle. The wall was installed by the GZO Peace Institute GenPeace and the Quezon City government to feature peace messages and symbols by youth all over the Philippines affected by conflict and/ or promoting peace.

Sacred Space, Sacred Circles, Sacred Music
Hosting a sacred space for meditation and reflection as a booth served as a refreshing way for visitors to learn about different faiths as they view the different faith symbols hung around with a giant mandala for peace intentions available for everyone to write on.

During the day, youths from Y4U, Integral Art Metta, Inc. (IAM), and Binhi ng Kapayapaan, Inc. ("seeds of peace") collaborated in creating a stone and tile labyrinth beside the stage for everyone to walk with the intention of seeking inner peace.

PCFI partner SangHabi, provided indigenous music and engaged people in a dance around the area towards the peace wall for the unveiling of the mosaics.

Throughout the program, solidarity messages and cultural presentations by children and youths enlivened the celebration. Another highlight was a video presentation prepared by GenPeace which featured stories of struggle and peace work by youths from different conflict-affected areas in the country (especially Mindanao).

Overall, the event was a huge success with more than 200 participants in attendance. We look forward to more and more youth involvement in celebrating World Peace Day in the coming years!

See more photos here at uriseap.ning.com or here at youth4unity.multiply.com

May Peace Prevail on Earth!

Kapayapaan Nawa'y Manaig sa Daigdig!

PCFI leads interfaith prayers @ OPAPP launch for Peace Month

2009-10-06T22:02:00.000-07:00

On September 1, 2009 (Tuesday) The Peacemakers' Circle facilitated the multifaith prayers that started the program launching the Peace Consciousness Month 2009 organized by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), held at the Peace Bell area of the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City.

Among the faith representatives were Sanghabi (indigenous call to prayer), Fr. Jose Souza, SJ (Catholic prayer), Alan Berguia (Muslim prayer), Shakuntala Vaswani (Hindu prayer), Raymond Cosare (Tibetan Buddhist prayer), and Tomomi Shima (Shumei prayer).

OPAPP has been organizing this program every year on the first of September for the past 5 years since the signing of the Presidential Decree declaring September as the Peace consciousness month in the Philippines.

For more photos click here

Y4U Interfaith Encounter with German Youths of the Archdiocese of Hamburg

2009-08-25T23:14:00.000-07:00

On August 22nd (Saturday) about 25 German youths and representatives from the Archdiocese of Hamburg-- along with their Filipino hosts from the Federation of Asian Bishops Conference (FABC) youth desk-- visited The Peacemakers' Circle (PCFI) office and had an interfaith encounter with 11 members of the Y4U (Youth for Unity) circle.

Starting off with interfaith prayers from representatives of different faiths, the session began with PCFI vice president and URI-SEAP regional coordinator, Shakun Vaswani, welcoming the young visitors to the intimate space and giving an introduction to PCFI and URI interfaith peacebuilding work. The PCFI documentary DVD was then shown to give them further orientation and exposure to the work of interfaith cooperation and relationship building in the local grassroots communities.

Y4U members Sharon, Trishna, and Rishi (Hindus), along with Lea (Catholic), Kenta (Shumei), Orlan (Indigenous/Folk Spirituality), Alan, Alih, Norodin and Salma (Muslims) then facilitated the interaction and small group discussions among the youths as they shared on their insights and impressions from the video they saw. The lively conversations and sharing between the all-Catholic German visitors and the interfaith local youths went on throughout the warm afternoon as they compared situations of peace and interfaith relations in their respective locations.

View more photos here

Peacemakers participate in Mindanao Peoples' Peace Agenda consultation meeting

2009-08-25T19:18:00.000-07:00

On August 20th (Thursday) the Mindanao Solidarity Network (MSN) & the Mindanao Peaceweavers network conducted a consultation meeting among Metro Manila-based peace advocates at the Bantayog ng mga Bayani monument. Around 40 representatives from different NGO's, academe, and community organizations participated. Among these groups are: GZO Peace Institute (MSN Secretariat), Generation Peace Youth Network, Balay Rehabilitation Center, Binhi ng Kapayapaan, Inc., Miriam College Center for Peace Education, Initiatives for International Dialogue (IID), Pax Christi, Pilipinong Taguri ng Kadakilaan (PITAK), Koalisyon ng mga Katutubong Samahan ng Pilipinas (KASAPI), Phil. Center for Islam & Democracy, Anak Mindanao Network (AMIN), Asia America Initiatives (AAI), and many others.

The Peacemakers' Circle were among the groups that brought a large contingent of participants -- bringing to the event representatives from its four Muslim-Christian grassroots communities of Tala (Caloocan City), Culiat (Quezon City), Quiapo (Manila), and Maharlika (Taguig City).

View more photos here.

Peacemakers Circle Launches Visits to Sacred Sites and Festival Celebrations for Peace month

2009-08-18T06:57:00.000-07:00

The Peacemakers Circle is hosting a series of visits and faith observances together with partner religious organizations and groups leading up to September 21 as part of its cause to promote peace through interfaith dialogue and understanding.

To launch this project, members celebrated Krishna Janmashtami with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) last Friday, August 14.

Janmashtami is the feast of the Birth of Sri Krishna, one of the most famous Gods of Hindu religion.

A group from the Peacemakers’ Circle composed of Christians, Muslims, and Multi-Faith practitioners joined the International Society of Krishna Consciousness or ISKCON at Bunyo st, Makati in celebrating Janmashtami last April 14. ISKCON is part of the Vaisnava Hindu sect that is devoted to Bhakti or devotional yoga to Krishna.

Legend has it that Sri Krishna was born over 5,227 years ago on a dark, stormy and windy night to end the rule and end atrocities of his maternal uncle, Kansa. Bhagwan Krishna was born on the eighth day (Ashtami) in the month of Sravana or Savana (August-September according to the Christian Calendar). Krishna’s story is depicted in the Srimad Bhagavatam and the well – loved Bhagavad Gita, one of the books from the epic Mahabharata.

Janmashthami celebrations are conducted during a 48 - hour period and includes fasting, singing of the glories of Krishna, reading from the Srimad Bhagvatam, and a staging of dramas and dances depicting the life and pastimes of Krishna..

During the ceremonies, the Krishna deity is bathed with Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, ghee, oil, honey and Gangajal) several times during the day. The Panchamrit is later distributed as Prasad to the devotees along with other sweets.

The celebration reaches its peak at midnight, with the birth of Lord Krishna, with lots of hymns and aarti (light and candle offerings) taking place with the blowing of the Conch (shankh), and rocking the cradle of the Lord’s deity.

See more photos

*Contact the Peacemakers Circle for the schedules of visits to sacred sites and lectures of other religions or faith groups for the month of August and September through 920-7622 or email peacemakerscircle_ uri@yahoo. com

Program for the Month of Peace 2009

Calendar of Events

a. Aug. 14th (Fri), 7pm-1am – Interfaith Peace Pilgrimage (Sacred Site Visit) to Sri Radha Madhava Center (Makati City) of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON)/Hare Krishna for the Sri Krishna Janmashtami celebration

b. Aug. 22nd (Sat), 2-5pm – Youth for Unity (Y4U) interfaith encounter with youths of the Archdiocese of Hamburg c/o the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences @The Peacemakers’ Circle Office

c. Aug. 29th (Sat) 6-8pm – Interfaith Peace Pilgrimage (Sacred Site Visit) to the Phil. Tibetan Nyingma Palyul Buddhist Center (700 Pinya Ave., Sta. Mesa, Manila) for the Hundred Deities Puja/Ceremony

d. Sept. 1st (Tue), 7am-12nn – Interfaith Prayers participation in the launching programOffice of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) @ Quezon Memorial Circle Peace Bell, QC

e. for the Peace-consciousness month of September by the Sept. 2nd (Wed), 5pm – Interfaith Peace Pilgrimage (Sacred Site Visit) to the Manila Sikh Gurudwara/temple (UN Ave., Paco, Manila)

f. Sept. 3rd (Thu), 7pm-9pm - participation in Brahma Kumaris talk on "The Silence of the Mind" by BK Jayanti @ Shangri-La Hotel, Makati City

g. Sept. 8th (Tue), 6:30pm-8pm – Interfaith Peace Pilgrimage (Sacred Site Visit) to Our Lady of Pentecost Catholic Parish (C. Salvador cor. F. Dela Rosa Sts., Varsity Hills, Loyola Heights, QC) for Feast of St. Mary

h. Sept. 15th (Tue), 9am-12nn – Talk on Freedom of Religion, Apostasy & Islam by Prof. Abdullah Saeed of Australia (in cooperation with the Australian Embassy) at Balay Kalinaw, University of the Philippines Diliman Campus, Quezon City.

i. Sept. 19th (Sat), 9am-9pm – Interfaith Prayers participation in DIWANG ILOG PASIG: DALOY, BUHAY AT PAG-IBIG spirituality & arts gathering for reviving Pasig River @ Makati Riverside Park, West Rembo c/o IAM, Inc. & partners

j. Sept. 21st (Mon), 9am-12nn – PEACE ONE DAY (International Day of Peace 2009) celebration with GZO Generation Peace youth network & peace partners @Quezon Memorial Circle, QC

k. Sept. 22nd (Tue), 6pm- 10pm – Interfaith Peace Pilgrimage (Sacred Site Visit) to the Hindu Temple (Paco, Manila) for Navratri Festival

l. Sept. 26th (Sat), 6pm - 27th (Sun), 7am – Interfaith Prayers participation in EARTH DANCE Global 2009 @ La Mesa Eco Park, Fairview, QC

Engaging the moral imagination in finding ways of transcending cycles of violence in Mindanao

2009-07-06T01:49:00.001-07:00

An overview and report on the URI Moral Imagination and Peacebuilding initiatives in SEAPac by Marites Guingona-Africa

“How do we transcend the cycles of violence that bewitch our human community while still living in them?” This was the question that moved John Paul Lederach, one of the world’s foremost experts on conflict transformation and peacebuilding, to write the book Moral Imagination: Art and Soul of Building Peace. His many years of experience in the field taught him that "transcending violence is forged by the capacity to generate, mobilize, and build the moral imagination."

Lederach promotes the importance of cultivating our spiritual and creative capacity as a critical tool for effective peacebuilding in situations of conflict. He defined moral imagination as “the capacity to imagine something rooted in the challenges of the real world, yet capable of giving birth to that which does not yet exist."

In his book, Lederach shared thoughts and insights on the nature of how constructive social change works and what contributes to it. He saw that this has to do with the nature of imagination and the capacity to envision a canvas of human relationships. He qualified, however, that this imagination must emerge from and speak to the hard realities of human affairs.

In 2006, he and his colleague, Herm Weaver, were invited by Barbara Hartford of the United Religions Initiative (URI) to help develop URI’s capacity to engage the moral imagination in its global peacebuilding efforts. Pilot URI training teams of peacebuilders from India, Northern Uganda, Ethiopia, the United States, and the Philippines were formed and a two-year action-reflection training workshop program on the moral imagination was launched in December 2006 with the support of Libby Hoffman of the Catalyst Funds for Peace. The training successfully concluded in September 2008 and the members of the teams gained appreciation and capacities for developing the ability to see themselves in a web of relationships that "includes our enemies," for living in paradoxical curiosity that holds competing experiences of reality, for valuing creativity, and taking the risk of letting go of the known situation of conflict to step into the unknown of peace.

The Philippine team was composed of four members of The Peacemakers’ Circle (a vital URI Cooperation Circle based in Metro Manila), namely: Dr. Abdulhusin “Jo” Kashim, Lee Collano, Akmad Wahab and Marites Guingona-Africa. Since 2003, Collano and Africa have been actively engaged in Muslim-Christian dialogue and relationship- building in grassroots communities in the metropolis (where the Office on Muslim Affairs estimated the Muslim population to be around 1.5 million). Together with Kashim and Wahab, their efforts to awaken and engage the moral imagination among Muslims and Christians have gained good measures of success.

Muslim-Christian Peacemakers’ Associations have been formed by the grassroots leaders in the communities of Tala (Caloocan City) and Quiapo (City of Manila) where cooperative livelihood programs are currently serving as one of the motivating forces in strengthening Muslim-Christian relationships. A six-month daily feeding program for malnourished Muslim children is being launched in Maharlika village in the City of Taguig where another Muslim-Christian Peacemakers’ Association is being organized. In the Culiat grassroots community in Quezon City, Muslim youth members of the Lakas ng Kabataang Muslim (Strength of Muslim Youth) organization are helping their elders gain deeper awareness and understanding of their rights and responsibilities as Muslims and citizens of the Philippines, and they are also preparing to engage in dialogue and relationship- building with their Christian counterparts in the nearby Culiat High School.

Encouraged by the success of the moral imagination approaches to Muslim-Christian peace- and relationship- building in Metro Manila, and growing in awareness of the need for new and more lasting and sustainable ways of addressing the raging conflict in Mindanao, The Peacemakers’ Circle opened itself to the possibility of sharing with grassroots peacebuilders in conflict-affected areas of Mindanao the capacities it gained from the two-year action-reflection training program on the moral imagination that the URI made available to them. During the URI Southeast Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly that was held in Tubod, Lanao del Norte in March 2009, Peacemakers’ circle representatives had the opportunity to meet with counterparts from conflict-affected areas of Mindanao who expressed interest in and willingness to engage in partnership with them in peacebuilding.

On June 28, 2009, the first step at forging potential partnerships between Mindanao and Metro Manila peacebuilders happened. The Peacemakers’ Circle URI Moral Imagination Team, with the help of their partners in the Sowing Peace for Mindanao network, organized a meeting in Manila with twelve grassroots leaders from conflict-affected areas in Mindanao, namely: Maguindanao, Cotabato, Basilan, Lanao.

It was a turning point not only in the moral imagination endeavors of URI in Southeast Asia-Pacific, but also in the endeavors of The Peacemakers’ Circle URI CC. For the first time since its eight years of engagement in the field, it reached out beyond the environs of Metro Manila to engage in consultation with representatives of organizations and institutions based in conflict-affected areas of Mindanao to explore the possibility of engaging in a long-term and sustainable action-reflection collaborative work with them. The aim was to train a team of grassroots leaders from conflict-affected areas (who will meet once in every 3-4 months within a span of two years) in an action-reflection program that will build their capacities to promote moral imagination approaches to healing memories of violence and war (among themselves and members of their respective communities) , grassroots interfaith dialogue and relationship- building, and community development and peacebuilding in their respective conflict areas in Mindanao, southern Philippines.

The consultation was held at the University Hotel in the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City. Those who were present from the Peacemakers’ Circle were Dr. Abdulhusin “Jo” and Mardia Kashim, Imam Major Ebra Moxsir (President of the Imam Council of the Philippines and incoming trustee of the Peacemakers’ Circle), Shakuntala Vaswani, Orlan de Guzman, Alan Berguia and Marites Africa. From the Sowing Peace for Mindanao network in Metro Manila, among those present were Karen Tanada (Gaston Z. Ortigas Peace Institute), Angelina and Jing Herrera, Helen Trautvetter (Binhi ng Kapayapaan); Dr. Ed Domingo and Dante Rivero (De La Salle University); and Faye Laquio (Mindanao Solidarity Network).

From Mindanao, present were Rev. Fr. Chito Soganub of the Prelature of Marawi, Jamael Datudacula and Sowaib Campong of the Mindanao Dynamic Culture of Peace (MIDCOP, Marawi), Bernardo Roa (Ut Unum Simus, Iligan), Bhenzar Yusuph (United Youth of the Philippines, Basilan Chapter), Ray Danilo Lacson (Notre Dame University, Cotabato), Jo Genna Jover (Kutawato Council for Justice and Peace), Noraida Akad (United Youth for Peace and Development) , Abulkair Alibasa (Liguasan Youth Association for Sustainable Development) , Nasser Casanova and Nimfa Manon-og (OMI Integrated Rehabilitation Development) .

Links with representatives from Cotabato, Maguindanao and Basilan were established during the interfaith conference organized by the Australian Embassy’s Strengthening Grassroots Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding (SGIDU) Program in Davao last May, and from recommendations given by the Mindanao Peoples’ Caucus (courtesy of Atty. Mary Ann Arnado), Binhi ng Kapayapaan and Balay Rehabilitation organizations.

Professor Rudy Rodil, renowned Philippine historian and member of the dissolved Peace Panel of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (that worked on the controversial Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain), gave a comprehensive and enlightening history of the Mindanao conflict; and Dr. Jo Kashim provided a brief view of ways forward that he gained from a meeting he helped organize for Dr. John Paul Lederach with leaders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) last October 2008.

That fateful one-day consultation meeting of Mindanao and Metro Manila peacebuilders last June 28 yielded a wealth of new ideas that held much promise of partnership in peacebuilding. There was the promise of collaborative work not only in designing, facilitating and developing a long-term and sustainable process of building individual and communal capacities for healing memories of conflict and violence, intra- and inter-faith dialogue, and grassroots community-building; there was also the promise of many opportunities (throughout the two-year pilot training program) for engaging the leaders and representatives of various sectors of society in Metro Manila—e.g. government, military, media, business, academe, religious, and other sectors--in dialogue with the Mindanao participants to hear their stories, respond personally and proactively to them, and grow in capacity to engage in partnership with the people of Mindanao in peace- and nation-building.

With the help and support of individuals, organizations and/or institutions who believe in this effort to engage the moral imagination in finding new and long-term and sustainable ways of transcending the cycles of violence in Mindanao and helping empower its people, we look forward to the future with enthusiasm and hope.

Peacemakers Y4U visit Shumei

2009-06-30T19:47:00.000-07:00

Farming to Create a Heaven on Earth

In line with the World Environment Day (June 5) the Y4U: Youth for Unity group of the Peacemakers' Circle Foundation, Inc. turned its focus on the growing environmental problems, climate change, food shortages, and increasing poverty in the World. A visit was organized to the Shumei (a Japanese spiritual movement) center to learn about their practice of natural agriculture. However, the visit to the center at Valencia Hills Condominium, Quezon City did not materialize until June 25 (Saturday)... Read full text & more photos

Peacemakers celebrate URI 9th Anniversary with interfaith leaders

2009-06-30T18:28:00.000-07:00

The Peacemakers' Circle -- a Cooperation Circle or CC of the United Religions Inititative (URI)-- in partnership with the URI Southeast Asia-Pacific regional office had a beautiful gathering with interfaith leaders and friends on June 25 entitled People for Peace in celebration of URI's 9th Anniversary of its Charter-signing. Around 24 interfaith leaders and representatives braved the Manila typhoon signal warning to grace us their presence to renew bonds and friendships. Old and new friends happily exchanged their interfaith stories and lessons with each other.

The celebration opened with interfaith prayers from Hindu, Sikh, Muslim, Christian, Tibetan Buddhist, Unitarian Universalist, and Brahma Kumaris traditions. We were also blessed with the presence of Shumei and Jeung San Do spiritual movement representatives. Indigenous flute music as prayer was played by Orlan de Guzman Jr. in the background.

The afternoon involved the screening of URI videos and a sharing on how the URI seed was planted in the Philippines. Personal stories about working with URI and experiences with CC members from around the globe were shared by URI Staff and CC members engaging the guests about this extraordinary global initiative and encouraging them to partner in our programs.

We also celebrated the birthday of Shakun Vaswani, PCFI vice president and URI-SEAP regional coordinator.

URI SEAPac and the Peacemakers Circle CC is looking forward to strengthening relationships and its network through continued interfaith dialogue with the faith groups present and those who could not make it due to other commitments.

Next year, on the tenth anniversary of the URI, we are planning to come up with a big celebration to highlight our work on interfaith dialogue and peace building on the ground.

Please click or copy and paste : http://uriseap.ning.com/photo/albums/uri-seapac-celebrates-uri-9th for more photos on the event.

(reported by Sarah Queblatin, URISEAP programs coordinator)

First Symphony of Global Peace Prayers / World Shift Day celebration in Manila successfully held

2009-05-18T23:56:00.000-07:00

On May 17, 2009 the Philippines joined more than 52 countries in the world in synergetic harmony as the Global Peace Meditation and Prayer Day / World Shift Day was celebrated with Symphony of peace prayers (SOPP)*, an interfaith program jointly organized by the Byakko Shinko Kai – Philippines (BSKP) and The Peacemakers’ Circle Foundation, Inc. (PCFI), and in partnership with the Center for Peace Education of Miriam College.

Lined with the colorful flags of the different countries in the world, faith symbols, a Peace Pole, mandala artworks, and energized with the presence and prayerful intentions of around 70 peace-loving people representing different spiritual organizations, advocacy groups, cultural workers and artists-- the conference hall of the Environmental Science Institute in Miriam College, Quezon City throbbed with peace vibrations sent out to the rest of the world that Sunday morning.

The program started off with Byakko members engaging everyone in a centering exercise called Ocean Breathing (Kokyuho) while they performed the Divinity-In (body prayer/mudra). This preceded some words of welcome from the founder/leader of BSKP and Peacemakers’ Circle member, Mr. Mario “Toots” Fungo.

The Peace Declaration of the World March for Peace and Nonviolence was then read together as led by Ms. Genie Kupang, a representative of the World Without Wars Movement and the Ang Komunidad (Humanist Movement). This was followed by the Global Prayer for a World Without Conflict and the Prayer for Harmony Between Humanity and Nature (led by Byakko members, Ms. Auchee Villaraza & Ms. Mae Coloma). These were accompanied by live noseflute music rendered by Mr. Leo Emmanuel Castro of SangHabi, Inc.

A dance-prayer was presented by Ms. Lea Tolentino of GINHAWA (holistic wellness center) to the tune of a prayer-song performed live by the young members of Kontra-Gapi (Kontemporaryong Gamelan Pilipino / Philippine contemporary gamelan) —ethnic music & dance ensemble from the University of the Philippines.

One of the highlights of the event was the interfaith peace prayers led by ten leaders and representatives of different faith traditions. They were: Dr. Shakuntala Vaswani of Balmandir Hindu Temple; Mr. Upendra Das of International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISCKON/Hare Krishna); Mr. Raymond Cosare (Tibetan Buddhist); Bro. Eli Andrade of Rainbow Peace Mission (Christian); Mr. Alan Berguia (Muslim) of PCFI & Youth for Unity (Y4U); Mr. Satinder Singh of Y4U & Manila Sikh Temple; and Baba Surinder Singh of Guru Nanak Mission (Sikh); Mr. Willi Remollo of Baha’i National Spiritual Assembly (Baha’i Faith); and Mrs. Tomomi Shima of Shinji Shumei Kai (Japanese spiritual organization). Capping off the interfaith prayers was a silent meditation guided by Mr. John Dowling of Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University.

The silence reverberated with powerful peace vibrations that was felt all around, as seen in the serenity on each one’s faces as they slowly opened their eyes. Everyone was then invited to spread the peaceful energy and light to the whole planet through the World Peace Prayer Ceremony which consisted of mentioning the names of the 198 nations in the world and praying for peace to prevail in each one. Byakko members accompanied the 35-minute ceremony with the performance of a Purification In (mudra) for each country, engaging some of the audience to join them.

The interfaith prayers—combined with the prayers for each country-- brought the experience to new heights as everyone shared a general feeling of accomplishment and joy for having been able to contribute in their own simple way towards an elevated shift in human consciousness for a more peaceful and harmonious world. Dr. Shakuntala Vaswani, Peacemakers’ Circle Vice President and United Religions Initiative Southeast Asia-Pacific regional coordinator, noted this in her closing remarks and she extended deep gratitude and appreciation for everyone who took part in the successful activity.

In high spirits, the event concluded with everyone exchanging greetings of peace from the heart and sharing a simple feast of vegetarian noodles, biscuits and fruits, while jamming to the chanting, drumming and gong music of ISKCON, Kontra-Gapi, and SangHabi.

Infinite gratitude once again goes to all participating groups: World Peace Prayer Society-Phils., Integral Art Metta, Inc., Ang Komunidad (Humanist Movement), World Without Wars movement, SangHabi, Inc., Ginhawa, Inc., U.P. Kontra-Gapi, ISKCON, Y4U, Peace Rainbow Mission, Guru Nanak Mission, Baha'i National Spiritual Assembly, Shumei Phils., Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University, URI-SEAP, and many others!

*Symphony of Peace Prayers (SOPP) is a yearly event that started at the Fuji Sanctuary in Japan —home of the Byakko Shinko Kai (“white light organization”--see www.byakko.org). Now on its fifth year, SOPP has extended its celebration to engage local connecting events in different countries on the same day. On 2007 the World Peace Prayer Society –International and the Club of Budapest came together to make the SOPP its official kick-off event to launch the Global Peace Meditation and Prayer Day / World Shift Day each year (see www.globalpeacemeditationprayerday.org).

A similar event was also simultaneously organized by a small interfaith group in Cagayan de Oro, Mindanao on the same day.

Symphony of Peace Prayers - May 17 (Global Peace Prayer & Meditation Day-World Shift Day)

2009-05-05T00:05:00.000-07:00

Byakko Shinko Kai - Philippines

in partnership with
The Peacemakers' Circle Foundation, Inc. and
Center for Peace Education - Miriam College

invites everyone to join the rest of the world in celebrating

Global Peace Prayer & Meditation Day - World Shift Day 2009

with a

SYMPHONY OF PEACE PRAYERS

an interfaith service

on May 17, 2009 (Sunday)

8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

@ the Conference Hall, Environmental Science Institute (ESI)
Miriam College, Katipunan Ave., Loyola Heights, QC

For more details, please contact Orlan at 0918-7822805 / 0906-3286441 / 920-7622
Email: mandalamanila@yahoo.com.ph

www.mandalamanila.blogspot.com

Earth Day interfaith celebration @ La Mesa Ecopark (April 18th)

2009-05-04T23:10:00.000-07:00

On April 18th, 2009 The Peacemakers' Circle Foundation, Inc. (PCFI) and Y4U (youth for unity) interfaith circle participated in the World Drum Project's interfaith celebration of Earth Day at the La Mesa Ecopark in Fairview, Quezon City.

read more and see photos here

Easter 2009 greetings

2009-04-21T23:19:00.000-07:00

To all our dear Christian friends & family in the Peacemakers' Circle,

We REJOICE with you in this season of

NEW LIFE,

NEW HOPE, and

NEW BLESSINGS!

From The Peacemakers' Circle staff

Introduction to Muslim-Christian Dialogue for Christians

2009-04-21T23:18:00.000-07:00

This Workshop is RESCHEDULED... please see new date below:

Dear Peacemakers and Friends,

Greetings of peace!

I am pleased to inform you that over the past four years the Peacemakers’ Circle has been engaged in building relationships of mutual respect, understanding and cooperation among Muslims and Christians in four grassroots communities in Metro Manila, namely: Baranggay 188 in Tala, Caloocan City; Salam Compound in Culiat, Quezon City; Maharlika Village in Taguig City; and Quiapo in Manila.

Our efforts in those communities have resulted in the creation of a Muslim-Christian Peacemakers’ Association in Tala, Caloocan City and a United Muslim-Christian Peacemakers’ Association in Quiapo, Manila. A six-month feeding program for malnourished Muslim children is about to be launched in Maharlika Village in Taguig City in partnership with the St. Joseph’s Parish, and a Muslim-Christian Dialogue Circle is currently being organized in Culiat, Quezon City.

It is in the spirit of dialogue that we at the Peacemakers’ Circle, in partnership with the Australian Embassy, invite Christians to join us in the endeavor of building mutually respectful relationships with our Muslim brothers and sisters in Metro Manila. A group of learned Muslim religious leaders and members of the Salam Compound in Culiat, Quezon City have completed twelve capacity building workshop sessions (based on the teachings of the Holy Qur’an) that were geared toward preparing them for dialogue with their Christian neighbors. We invite you to support their efforts and join them in a Muslim-Christian Dialogue and Friendship Circle!

For those who are interested, please attend an intra-Christian workshop in preparation for dialogue and friendship-building with Muslims in Culiat.

You are invited to

Introduction to Muslim-Christian Dialogue

A workshop-seminar for Christians

On April 28, 2009 (Wednesday)

From 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

At the Ugnayan Hall, 3^rd Flr. PhilDHRRA Partnership Center

59 C. Salvador Street, Varsity Hills

Loyola Heights, Quezon City

Registration fee: Php 50.00 (includes lunch and snacks)

Space is limited to 20 participants. Please request for a registration form from shekinah8@gmail.com on or before April 6 (Mon). For further information, please contact Orlan at 920-7622 / 0918-7822805 / 0917-5389358.

URI SEAP Regional Assembly in Lanao

2009-03-09T18:49:00.000-07:00

The Peacemakers' Circle

will be joining interfaith leaders and representatives of other
URI Cooperation Circles (CCs) from all over the
Southeast Asia & the Pacific region

on March 15 - 21, 2009 for the

United Religions Initiative Southeast Asia-Pacific (URI-SEAP)
Regional Assembly 2009

to be held @ Mindanao Civic Center, Tubod, lanao del Norte, Mindanao

(Because of this please be advised that The Peacemakers' Circle office will be closed during the said dates. For urgent matters you may contact us through mobile numbers 0918-7822805 or 0906-3286441 - c/o OrlanD)

San Francisco Chronicle on Marites Africa

2009-03-08T22:21:00.000-07:00

March 8, 2009 (Sunday)

Dear Peacemakers and Friends,

Greetings of peace and love from San Francisco!

I returned to Manila safely last 26th February from a 10-day trip to Australia. Loreta Castro (Center for Peace Education of the Miriam College) and I were invited to speak at an interfaith summit in Brisbane organized by Dr. Toh Swee-Hin and Dr. Virginia Cawagas of the Multi-Faith Center, Griffith University. The theme of the summit was "One Humanity, Many Faiths." Three hundred forty leaders and interfait h dialogue practitioners attended from around Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. I spoke on "Fostering Intercultural Respect and Reconciliation" in the context of my work in Manila, and this was well received by the assembly.

After the summit in Brisbane, Jason Mundy, James Lees, and Ria Go-Tian of the Australian Embassy in Manila had arranged for our visit to their office in Canberra and Sydney. We were warmly hosted by the Australian government and met many interesting people in government and by representatives of the NGO communities we visited; they shared with us very heartwarming stories and information on the work that they are doing to promote peace and harmony among diverse cultures and beliefs in their country. I will write in more detail about my experience of Australia as soon as I am able.

I am now in San Francisco , USA for the United Religions Initiative (URI) Circles of Light annual fundraising gala dinner. I am to speak on my interfaith work in Manila before an audience of over 400 people from around San Francisco and some URI representatives and friends from elsewhere around the world. I have been here since March 1 to speak to various groups of people. Below is the link to a write-up on an interview I had with the San Francisco Chronicle. It was published in the news here yesterday, Friday (March 6).

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/03/06/DDFD169CMP.DTL

Please remember me in your prayers. I look forward to returning home to Manila tomorrow to prepare for the next challenge--the the URI Southeast Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly that will be held in Tubod, Lanao del Norte from March 16-21.

With love and warm regards from chilly San Francisco,

Marites

Call for World March for Peace launching event

2009-03-04T02:13:00.000-08:00

The Peacemakers' Circle is

Calling on everyone to join the Philippine launching!

8:00am assembly at Quezon Memorial Circle,

Peace walk up to Bantayog ng mga Bayani Monument (Quezon Ave. corner EDSA)

Human Peace Sign
Interfaith Prayers
Public Declaration & Signing of Covenant for Peace

Once again, let us all show solidarity and oneness in the name of Peace!

See you there!

For more info and/or to join the campaign network, contact:
Mr. Osbi Santillan (World without Wars) - 7268770 or 0918-9431490
check out: http://www.martsamundo.net/ (Phils.)
or http://www.marchamundial.org/ (International)

Youtube intro video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMMV6txlo5o

World March for Peace & Nonviolence - Phil. launching (March 2, 2009)

2009-03-04T00:19:00.000-08:00

On March 2, 2009 (Monday) The Peacemakers' Circle Foundation, Inc. participated in the public launching of the WORLD MARCH FOR PEACE & NONVIOLENCE campaign & network in the Philippines.

The network of participating peace organizations and interfaith communities assembled around 8:00am in the morning at the Peace Bell area of the Quezon City Memorial Circle. Among these were: World Without Wars (the campaign secretariat); Ang Komunidad (Humanist movement); Sowing Peace network; Binhi ng Kapayapaan, Inc.; GZO Peace Institute; GenPeace network; Interfaith Center for a Culture of Nonviolence; Peace Rainbow Mission; Rotaract, SangHabi, Inc.; Integral Arts Metta, Inc.; UP Kontra-Gapi; BMP; KPML; and the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (Hare Krishna).

With high spirits & strong determination the group proceeded with the march along Quezon Avenue despite the drizzle that started to fall from the thick clouds covering the sun that day. Armed with color flags, organizational banners, and just a few umbrellas the group marched counter-flowing the traffic on the rain-blessed highway chanting "Bawat Hakbang Para sa Kapayapaan" (each step for peace) to the tune and rhythm of Hare Krishna drums, cymbals and several indigenous Cordillera flat gongs.

At the Bantayog ng mga Bayani the group proceeded with forming the human peace sign. This was followed by interfaith prayers led by The Peacemakers' Circle and representatives from different faith traditions, namely: indigenous, Hindu, Tibetan Buddhist, Muslim, Catholic Christian, and Vaisnava (Hare Krishna).

After a short solidarity message from the convening organizations, several organizations expressed support and endorsement for the campaign. The Declaration of the World March for Peace & Nonviolence was then read together led by several representatives from the different sectors present. This was followed by a public signing of the World March Covenant on a tarpauline banner.

It was a simple yet profound launching event that left everyone with cheerful smiles, peaceful hearts, and an eager anticipation of the succeeding peace activities that will gather them (and many more to join) together as these build up to the big event later in October. During that time the international delegates will be arriving in Manila for the third leg of the first and longest peace journey in the globe today, the World March for Peace and Nonviolence.

See more photos of this event here

Watch the Youtube video clip:

Check out: www.martsamundo.net (for local events) and www.marchamundial.org (for international events)

Sowing Peace in Manila and keeping hope alive

2009-01-26T18:29:00.000-08:00

January 25, 009

Dear Peacemakers and friends,

Greetings of peace and love from Manila!

In the face of the continuing threat to the peace and wellbeing of the suffering people of Mindanao (Philippines) and Gaza we, members of the Sowing Peace network in Metro Manila, turned to one another for support and encouragement. It is easy to lose heart in the midst of the prevailing violence everywhere. Our efforts at peacebuilding seem puny and effete and our words, no matter how forceful and compelling in their condemnation of the violence, seem to only exacerbate our feelings of helplessness and frustration at not being able to stop the war and end the killings.

In the midst of all these, we have taken recourse to returning to our selves to seek and find that which we have in our power to harness—our human spirit and our capacity to build relationships. So, while holding images of the maimed, dead and dying in our hearts, we stepped-up our efforts to build--and to keep on building--relations hips in places near and dear to us.

Last Thursday, in the midst of the heat and the din of the mid-day traffic, twenty-four Muslims and Christians (of various denominations) successfully completed the last of the 12-session series of workshops on *GRASSROOTS LEADERSHIP TRAINING ON MUSLIM-CHRISTIAN DIALOGUE* in Quiapo (that they started in June 2008). This was a capacity-building program that our Peacemakers' Circle CC designed and launched in partnership with the *Australian
Embassy's Strengthening Grassroots Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding
(SGIDU) program*.

The workshop was held at the Golden Mosque compound in the heart of Quiapo, Manila. Quiapo is one of the four grassroots Muslim-Christian communities that the Peacemakers' Circle CC is currently serving under the mantle of the *URI Moral Imagination Program* and in keeping with the spirit of the *URI Preamble, Purpose & Principles (PPP)*. The other communities are Tala in Caloocan City, Maharlika Village in Taguig City, and Salam Compound in Culiat, Quezon City. Metro Manila is composed of 14 cities and two municipalities and the Muslim population in the metropolis is said to now total over 1.5 million.

What was heartwarming about that whole-day training in Quiapo last Thursday was *the willingness of the Muslim and the Christian participants to see goodness in each other--and in each other's faith*--*and to recognize and accept their own respective human frailties and imperfections that got in the way of the true practice of their own faith*. It was moving to hear a
passionate Muslim leader lament what he perceived to be disunity among Muslims and the inability of the Arab nations to take prompt action in aid of the suffering in Gaza. It was likewise moving to hear a passionate Christian leader speak of the fear among Christians that disabled them from responding to the challenge to love their neighbors as themselves.

At the end of the day, the Muslim and Christian participants of the workshop agreed to unite and form a MUSLIM-CHRISTIAN PEACEMAKERS' ASSOCIATION OF QUIAPO. *They said that* *they may not be able to stop the war in Mindanao or in Gaza but they could contribute to peace in the world by strengthening their friendships and working together to collectively address their local concerns.* They chose their leaders and scheduled another meeting for next Thursday to discuss ways forward in promoting their cause. In the midst of all these developments, our Peacemakers' Circle CC reiterated its commitment to accompany and support them in their journey. We have been doing the same for the MUSLIM-CHRISTIAN PEACEMAKERS' ASSOCIATION OF TALA in Caloocan City since 2005.

Much work for peace is being done on the ground here. We continue to strengthen our relationships with the women leaders of various organizations that compose the *Sowing Peace network*. Some of the members of the network are: Balay Rehabilitation Center, GZO Peace Institute, Center for Peace Education of Miriam College, Binhi, Bethlehem Mission, etc. Last Wednesday we got together over potluck lunch to renew our commitment to support each
other in the pursuit of peace in our country and the world. Each of us presented the various projects that our respective organizations had lined up for the year and expressed ways in which we could support those projects.

One that is up and coming is the visit this Wednesday of *Maria Christina Eggers from the Katharina Werk Organization (KTW).* Maria Christina is a long-time leader of KTW who has been in-charge of organizing the annual International Peace Camp in Switzerland. For the past seven years the Peace Camp brought together Israelis and Palestinians and people from other
countries.

What I find really interesting about Maria Christina is the fact that *she is German and a descendant of a Nazi soldier*. The painful history and the stigma that she and her people carried over the years moved her to dedicate her life to building peace in the world. *She sees the war in the Middle East partly as a result of the terrible violence done by the Germans to the Jews during World War II and is now atoning for it by helping to build bridges of peace between Israelis and Palestinians. * She now lives in Jerusalem where she has established "Beit Catarina", a center that offers a safe space for meditation, dialogue, peacebuilding workshops and friendly
encounters between Israelis and Palestinians who seek to find an end to the violence in that part of the world. *She also visits and accompanies groups from both sides who are trying to build paths to peace*. She was in Jerusalem when the recent violence in Gaza broke out.

Our Peacemakers' Circle CC will be hosting a dialogue session with Maria Christina on January 28. Her visit is being facilitated by Angelina Herrera of BINHI (Seed) organization, and organized by the remarkable women leaders of the Sowing Peace network. We look forward to hearing *how this descendant of a Nazi soldier is helping to heal wounds and build peace between Israelis
and Palestinians. * We also hope to explore *ideas* with her *on* *how to help our war-ravaged people in Mindanao return to healing and wholeness once again.*

On Thursday, I will be giving a workshop-seminar on "*Religion Beyond Borders: Christian-Muslim Relations*" to a group of about 80 college students of a Jesuit university here. I hope to be able to inspire them to participate in the *global effort to transcend boundaries while being rooted in the effort of peacefully and respectfully addressing our differences. *

The road to peace is long and difficult. We need to be patient and kind to ourselves and take time to listen to each other. There are "miles to go before we sleep." Meantime, we at the Peacemakers' Circle CC continue to come together regularly every Tuesday (for our *weekly Inner Work Support Circle*) to pray for the victims of war in Gaza, Mindanao, Zimbabwe and
elsewhere in the world, and for peace, justice and healing to come about in our midst.

Thank you for your patience and kind attention. May Peace Prevail on Earth!

Sincerely,

Marites G. Africa

The Peacemakers' Circle CC

Manila, Philippines

In memory of Taha Basman

2009-01-25T22:39:00.000-08:00

By Marites Guingona-Africa

January 24, 2009

A good man was laid to rest the other day. He passed away in the still of the afternoon sheltered by the love of his family who stood by him throughout his illness. TAHA BASMAN was a devout Muslim who pioneered interfaith dialogue among his Muslim brothers and sisters in Metro Manila. He slipped away gently from this world leaving in his wake the garden of friendships he had nurtured with people of diverse religions and spiritual expressions for over a decade, and the seeds of peace in the hearts of Muslims and Christians that he had sowed.

We, at the Peacemakers' Circle, remember Taj (as he was called) fondly. He was there in the early years when our dream of creating a "common ground," a "safe space" for people of diverse cultures and beliefs was first coming to be. He was the first Muslim who introduced Islam to our growing circle of interfaith friends in 1999. Two years later, with his friendship and support, the foundations of The Peacemakers' Circle were built. He was the pillar of peace in Islam for us as he introduced the five pillars of Islam and its six articles of faith to us.

It was from Taj that I first learned how to relate with Muslims in ways respectful of their culture and beliefs. As a Catholic Christian endeavoring to build bridges of mutual respect, understanding and cooperation among people of diverse religions and faith traditions, I valued growing in mindfulness of the need of Muslims for prayer time and space during our meetings, for halal food, for fasting during the month of Ramadan, for self-determination and other particular needs that I used to not be aware of.

Taj and Ann (his wife of twenty three years) were inspiring exemplars of peace in Islam. They were one and inseparable in their passion for and commitment to interfaith peacebuilding. When not attending to their eight children, they devoted much time, energies and resources to nurturing their interfaith relationships. We at The Peacemakers' Circle have been blessed with the gift of their friendship and support in creating the kind of interfaith bridge-building organization that we envisioned ourselves to be.

When 9/11 happened and the world reeled in its wake, Taj and Ann found themselves at the center of a whirlwind of interfaith dialogue projects and activities that called for Muslims to bring forth the ways of peace in assuaging the fears and anxieties of the world ignorant of Islam. Taj was there, always speaking graciously (and humorously!) of the goodness of Islam and embodying its peace before many groups of people who yearned to make sense of it all. And with him, The Peacemakers' Circle grew in strength and relevance to the times.

It is with deep gratitude and fondness that we at The Peacemakers' Circle remember Taha Basman, our dear friend, co-founder, incorporator, and esteemed colleague who has given so much of himself to the promotion of Islam in his journey through life along the path of peace.

Thank you, Taj! And may Allah the all merciful and loving guide you onward towards peace and joy eternal in paradise!

[Note: Comm. Taha Basman died of sarcoma, a malignant tumor of the connective tissue, on January 22, 2009 at the age of 57. The tumor that grew in his legs metastasized to his lungs]

Invitation to a Memorial for Taha Basman

Dear Peacemakers and friends,

Please join us

this Friday - January 30th, 2009

3:00 - 6:00 p.m.

@ Ugnayan hall, 3/F PhilDHRRA Partnership Center
(#59 Salvador St., Varsity Hills, Loyola Heights, QC)

for a gathering of friends in the interfaith movement as together

we remember

Taha Basman

and pray for the repose of his soul.

Sharings and Reflections are welcome.

Refreshments to share would be appreciated.

Please confirm your attendance through Orlan 920-7622 or 0918-7822805 / 0906-3286441)

PCFI in Mayapur

2009-01-06T23:48:00.000-08:00

Philippine Interfaith Teams join Pilgrimage of Global Interfaith Leaders & Youth in Mayapur, India
November 27 – December 05, 2008

The Philippines was represented in a global gathering of interfaith leaders and peacebuilders held in Mayapur, India last November 27th – December 5th, 2008. This was the second global assembly of the United Religions Initiative (URI), an interfaith organization of grassroots Cooperation Circles around the world composed of members representing diverse religions, spiritual expressions and indigenous traditions who are striving 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.

While participants in URI's projects have included leaders such as the Dalai Lama, URI's primary constituents are common citizens working on a grassroots level in their own communities. These individual community and spiritual leaders connect to the URI network through one or more of URI's 400 local groups based in 70 countries worldwide, called Cooperation Circles. Developed to directly assist and further the work of these interfaith Cooperation Circles, the 2008 Global Assembly in Mayapur brought together 300 global interfaith leaders, from 44 countries, as well as the first interfaith youth delegation in an unprecedented grassroots global gathering. It aimed to address questions and share experiences of respected and recognized leaders in grassroots organizing, in order to further the work of world wide interfaith peacebuilding.

The Assembly's theme was 'Pilgrims of Peace: Many Paths, One Purpose.' Members of Cooperation Circles from around the world, all of whom are working on interfaith projects, spoke face to face, learned from one another's successes, built further alliances within the URI network and further worldwide interfaith cooperation. For more info, visit: http://www.uri.org/

The Mayapur Assembly was attended by representatives from the Philippines belonging to the Cooperation Circles of The Peacemakers' Circle Foundation, Inc. (Metro Manila), Kalinaw-CC (Cebu), Pakigdait, Inc. (Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte), Bohol Goodwill Volunteers, Inc. (Tagbilaran, Bohol) .

... more on this here

Peace Caravan and Peace March

2008-10-20T03:03:00.000-07:00

The Peacemakers' Circle Foundation, Inc.

in partnership with

IN SEARCH FOR PEACE IN MINDANAO:

ENGAGING THE MORAL IMAGINATION IN COMMUNITY DIALOGUE AND RELATIONSHIP- BUILDING

(A Leaders' Dialogue Workshop-Forum).

Hotel Rembrandt Ballroom, Quezon City
October 23, 2008

In the light of the ongoing hostilities in Mindanao, we have partnered with the Sowing Peace fro Mindanao network and, with the support of the U.S. Embassy and the Mindanao Peoples' Caucus, we are organizing a dialogue workshop-forum for leaders of various sectors in Metro Manila. Our aim is to find ways of creatively working together to help address the raging conflict in Mindanao and build mutually respectful and harmonious relationships among its people.

A select group of 100 leaders from various sectors of society are being invited. We would be honored if you could join and help us find ways of sowing peace for Mindanao.

Space is limited so please contact Sarah or Orlan at 920-7622 to confirm your attendance.

Sowing Peace Convening Organizations:

Balay Rehabilitation Center, The Peacemakers’ Circle Foundation, Inc (PCFI), Binhi ng Kapayapaan, Inc., Mindanao Solidarity Network (MSN), Gaston Z. Ortigas Peace Institute (GZOPI), Anak Mindanao (AMIN), Pinay…Kilos (PINK), Moro Human Rights Council (MHRC), Center for Peace Education - Miriam College, Initiatives for International Dialogue (IID), Interfaith Center for a Culture of Nonviolence (ICCN), Social Action Office-College of St. Benilde

For more info contact: PCFI (920-7622 / 0918-7822805); Binhi (0926-6401941); Balay (921-6301) -- www.sowingpeace.multiply.com