1) August 15 (Friday) 5:30-7pm -- Sharing Light for Mindanao - following suggestions & ideas raised during the regular Tuesday Inner Work Circle where special time was offered for prayers for peace in Mindanao-- The Peacemakers' Circle (PCFI) partnered with Binhi ng Kapayapaan, Inc. to quickly organize this meeting which aimed to generate initial discussions about the current happenings in Mindanao to raise awareness from and among concerned individuals in Manila; and to pray and send positive energy to neutralize the fear & anger being sown all around. 14 people gathered at the Hope Center which hosted the meeting. The small group had an intimate sharing of concerns, updates and prayers for the seemingly-distant region of Mindanao. It was decided that another meeting be held to continue the campaign to raise awareness on the Mindanao situation.
2) August 21 (Wednesday) 4:30-7pm -- Conversations on the Mindanao situation - PCFI friends and co-workers in peacebuilding gathered for an informal meeting at the PhilDHRRA conference room in Loyola Heights for further discussions and updates on the situation. About 25 people from various organizations (Mindanao People's Caucus, Binhi ng Kapayapaan,Inc. , GZO Peace Inst., Arellano University, Inst. of Spirituality in Asia, Balay Center, FilMus youth, and the Muslim-Christian Dialogue Program) attended. There were even some members of Salam Marines from Quiapo who were brought along by Muslim friends.
The intimate and informal atmosphere provided a safe space for those who were deeply involved in the work to express their emotions and sentiments as they related updates and some of their opinions. To some extent, some light were shed on the situation which seemed to be much more complicated. It was reported that fear and anger in the hearts of people and leaders (both political and religious) are causing more polarization and division.There was a general feeling of urgency that concerned groups and inidviduals in Manila should create consolidated efforts to campaign in support for Mindanao.
A follow-up planning meeting to come up with consolidated activities (such as prayer marches/ candle-lighting vigils, fasting campaigns, position statements/letters, relief collection, programs) will be held on Tuesday - August 26 at 5:30pm, tentatively at the Balay Rehabilitation Center in Teachers' Village, QC.
Everybody is enjoined to support this urgent call for peace in Mindanao -- however distant we may be. Please let us know if you wish to join us.More updates to follow...
