Lived Experiences of Interfaith Leaders in Promoting Solidarity and Peace in Pagadian City

Abstract

This study explored the lived experiences of interfaith leaders in Pagadian City, particularly their efforts in promoting Solidarity and Peace. It involved interviews with nine interfaith leaders from the city, whose personal insights were collected through in-depth discussions. The study points out how personal encounters influence their interfaith efforts, the nature of their engagements with diverse religious communities, and the activities they implement. This study is qualitative and mainly utilizes a phenomenological research design. This design was chosen to identify the common patterns in the experiences of all participants. The findings highlighted that the leaders strongly emphasize unity, shared objectives, community involvement, and resolving conflicts. Key activities include the Mindanao Week of Peace, World Interfaith Harmony Week, immersion initiatives, the Duyog Ramadan Program, and efforts to spread interfaith Dialogue. The study highlighted several important points. Challenges faced by interfaith leaders include misinterpretation, prejudice, low attendance, personal agendas, clan feuds, recruitment difficulties, and financial limitations. To overcome these obstacles, the leaders focused on promoting understanding, staying consistent, embracing new ideas, respecting Dialogue, maintaining a positive mindset, motivating others, and turning to prayer. They also emphasized the importance of collaborating with government agencies, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to advance interfaith Dialogue. The recommendations include continuing dedicated interfaith Dialogue, improving collaboration, strengthening interfaith networks, engaging the youth, and directing future research toward the impact of ongoing interfaith efforts. This study highlights the crucial role of sustained Dialogue and collaboration in fostering harmony among the diverse religious communities in Pagadian City.