By Nilda Delos Reyes
ISABELA CITY — The local government of Isabela de Basilan in Phillipines spearheaded an “Interfaith Dialogue Series” for the month of March, which aims to foster understanding and respect among diverse religious communities, creating a supportive dialogue framework for shared values.
The inaugural session titled “The Virtues of Modesty and Fasting” gathered distinguished religious leaders and engaged community members who shared ideas centered around two pivotal spiritual practices. The speakers emphasized the relevance of these virtues in contemporary society while celebrating diversity.
City Administrator Pedrito Eisma underscored in his message the transformative power of interfaith dialogue. He emphasized that as the participants may come from different backgrounds, open conversations allow them to bridge gaps and create a united community.
A panel of esteemed speakers from various religious traditions shared their insights on modesty and fasting.
Parish priest Franklyn Floyd G. Costan of San Vicente Ferrer Church, described fasting as a profound spiritual discipline that invites self-sacrifice and reflection. He articulated how these practices deepen the Roman Catholic faith, urging attendees to embrace their spiritual journeys.
Barbette Tabenas-Baclay, representing the Seventh-day Adventist Church, shared about the dual benefits of fasting—its physical health advantages and its spiritual significance. She emphasized that modesty reflects an individual’s inner values, influencing both behavior and outward presentation.
Furthermore, Ustadza Sitti Rahma U. Sahibil, representing the Ma’had Basilan Al-Arabie Al-Islamie, provided a rich Islamic perspective on fasting, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. She discussed fasting as a means to cultivate empathy and gratitude, while also highlighting the broader implications of modesty in personal conduct and interaction.
Ustadza Fahma S. Ismael from Jam Iyyatun Nusa Alkhairiya elaborated on modesty as a fundamental expression of faith, extending beyond attire to encompass humility and the purity of intentions. She linked fasting and modesty as vital pathways toward becoming a more devoted and character-driven individual.
During the sharing session, participants shared their individual insights promoting thoughtful reflections on how modesty and fasting transcend religious boundaries, reinforcing interfaith unity.
Mendry-Ann Lim, City Information Officer and concurrent Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Person, expressed her appreciation to the speakers and participants describing the interfaith dialogues as an essential initiative for dismantling misconceptions and nurturing a culture of peace.
The Interfaith Dialogue Series will continue every Wednesday throughout March. Other topics include “Mercy and Forgiveness” (March 12), “Women of the Holy Scriptures” (March 19), and “Faith and Social Responsibilities” (March 26).
The activity welcomes participants from diverse backgrounds, including Roman Catholics, Madaris teachers, Seventh-Day Adventists, and representatives from local women’s councils, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, youth, academia, council members, barangay chairpersons, and local government employees.
The “Purple Wednesdays Interfaith Dialogue Series” signifies more than mere discussions—it marks the beginning of a movement towards cultivating unity in diversity, where people of various faiths can come together, celebrate shared values, and work collectively for a more harmonious community.
– Source: EDT/NDR/PIA9-Basilan with reports from CIO Isabela City. Phillipines Information Agency (PIA). pia.gov.ph
