ZAMBOANGA (Agenzia Fides): Forty years have passed since the movement for Islamic-Christian dialogue, Silsilah [meaning “chain”] was launched in the southern Philippines in 1984, beginning of a journey that was not always easy, but also marked by moments of joy. Today it can be said that it has contributed to spreading the spirit of reconciliation in the Philippines and in the world.
“In 40 years, Silsilah has met thousands of Muslim and Christian friends, especially in Mindanao, but also in other parts of the Philippines and in other parts of the world. It is an experience that has borne fruit and has been appreciated over time for its universal value,” explained Father Sebastiano D’Ambra of the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions [PIME], and co-founder of the movement that promotes the common life of Christians and Muslims.
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the founding of the Movement, which was welcomed and considered by the Church in the Philippines as a “beacon” for Islamic-Christian relations, a memorial event will be held on May 18 at the Harmony Village, with the participation of members of the movement, students, alumni, friends and all those who share the spirit of Silsilah, as well as Christian and Muslim leaders and representatives of the authorities.
The past and present of Silsilah will be discussed along with the mission of dialogue and peace. While “we will not fail to talk about the future: we will ask the participants to dream with us and renew our commitment to a world of good relations in the name of peace, reconciliation and fraternity”, the Italian missionary explained.
