Inter-Religious Dialogues Mark World Interfaith Harmony Week

In response to the nation's call for the establishment of a culture of peace, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hosted inter-religious dialogues during the World Interfaith Harmony Week.  Round table discussions were held in Manila on February 5 and a forum was conducted in Cagayan de Oro City on February 1.

In Manila, religious leaders and representatives of different faiths to include Islam, Roman Catholic, Baha’i and The Church of Jesus Christ (Mormon) sat together to engage in a dialogue based on two common fundamental religious commandments which is Love of God, and Love of Neighbor.  The question “How does my faith affect my daily life?” was thoroughly explored in the discussions. 

Participants in the round table discussions were able to build friendships and inspire respect for the diverse beliefs and unique contributions of different faiths.  Because of the desire of those who attended to strengthen understanding, another round table discussion is scheduled for April.

In Cagayan de Oro City, a forum was held featuring speakers from Islam, Baha’i, Lumad communities and the Church.  An Interfaith Café was also set up wherein guests were ushered and given a guided tour, and were shown different displays of the participating religious faiths.  More than 180 people participated in the forum and visited the exhibits.

One of the participants, Adzhar Jadda Madjid, quoted Dr. Hans Kung's statement, "There will be no peace among the nations without peace among the religions. There will be no peace among religions without dialogue among the religions."

Republic Act 10525 signed by president Aquino last year into law declares the first week of February of every year as "World Interfaith Harmony Week."   This event that has rippled through many countries was first proposed at the UN General Assembly on September 23, 2010 by H.M. King Abdullah II of Jordan. Just under a month later, on October 20, 2010, it was unanimously adopted by the UN and henceforth the first week of February will be observed as a World Interfaith Harmony Week.