ASIA/PHILIPPINES – The “Silsilah” movement: Lent and Ramadan offer believers a path of fraternity and peace

Zamboanga – “The special seasons of Ramadan and Lent invite us to reflect, pray, and fast in order to achieve a conversion of the heart and rediscover that we are all part of the same human fraternity, which challenges us to overcome old and new divisions and conflicts, believing that God loves everyone.” This is the message of the Silsilah movement for Islamic-Christian dialogue , present in the southern Philippines and founded in Zamboanga by PIME missionary Father Sebastiano D’Ambra. The message, sent to Fides and released on February 18, notes that in 2026 Ramadan begins at the same time as the Christian season of Lent and invites Muslims and Christians “to pray more and to fast, following the guidelines of each religion.”
The movement points out: “We are living through a crucial historical moment, with alarming situations of conflict and natural disasters. Some become discouraged and depressed, but we are called to face new challenges.” It continues: “For Muslims, the month of Ramadan is a reminder to surrender themselves to God, observing the rules of fasting and paying special attention to charity and solidarity. For Christians, too, the season of Lent begins this year at the same time. It is a special time to rediscover that we can be friends and work together.” The text also emphasizes that “differences are not an obstacle, but a challenge: we can inspire each other in what we have in common, especially in caring for the poor and the most vulnerable.” We are also invited together to care for our Mother Earth and to promote dialogue with Creation at this critical moment in history.” The document recalls that both communities recently celebrated World Interreligious Harmony Week, from February 1 to 7, an initiative promoted by the United Nations since 2010, centered on the theme “Love of God, love of neighbor, love of the common good.”
On the occasion of this celebration, the Silsilah movement of Zamboanga organized a gathering attended by the Grand Mufti, the Archbishop of Zamboanga, and numerous Christian and Muslim leaders. The faithful present prayed together the “Prayer for Harmony,” which concludes with the words: “Grant me, Lord, the courage to live in dialogue amidst divisions and conflicts and to build peace with all sincere people who believe in your love and compassion.”
Zamboanga is the birthplace of the Silsilah movement, founded in 1984. From there, its mission has spread throughout the Philippines and other countries, promoting a culture of dialogue as a path to peace through various activities, training programs, study seminars, dialogue experiences, and shared prayer.

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