Tell me a story

IRD Coordinator: Priscilla Magdalin - Photo: Priscilla Magdalin

We organized an Inter-Religious Dialogue (IRD) gathering at the Sacred Heart Cathedral Crypt on Saturday evening, 28^th November. On this occasion the young people from six different faith denominations presented on “Tell Me A Story” from their holy scriptures through role plays and drama on messages of truth, love, joy, mercy, death and resurrection. This Interfaith gathering brought together people of different beliefs to share each other’s beliefs and gain a better understanding of one another’s beliefs. The youths particularly enjoyed the ice breaker session led by Fr. Frank Hoare where they got to meet other youth members. One hundred twenty-five people attended this interfaith gathering. I appreciated the energy, joy, and humor of the performances of the members through the spirit of collaboration and harmony.

During these IRD gatherings, the young people travel long distances to make their presentation. No complaints were heard but they focused on a common effort. The commitment and interest is seen in the youth’s journey with the creator and the opportunity for all faiths to share and learn about each other’s religion.

This work is very demanding and calls for great sacrifice of my time to get things to run smoothly and be successful. It is a ministry that’s demands much prayer.

There were a lot of challenges and sacrifices ever since I joined the Columbans as the Inter-Religious Dialogue Coordinator working two days in a week. My role was to contact youth leaders of different faiths.

This work is very demanding and calls for great sacrifice of my time to get things to run smoothly and be successful. It is a ministry that’s demands much prayer.

Getting young people from some communities to participate is very difficult. Most youth leaders confirm just few days before the proposed event.

Fr. John , Fr. Frank and the youths from Tamavua - Photo: Priscilla Magdalin

Sometimes the logistics and preparation often makes me want to give up but I tell myself I need to be strong. I have great support from Fr. Frank Hoare and members of the Columban Mission Office.

To continue in the ministry, I need to come closer to God and ask for strength. I have to try to help young people from different cultural backgrounds and traditions develop mutual understanding. This has taught me realize its significance for this future ministry.

I would like to thank each and every youth leader, participant for their continuous support for the past fourteen IRD gatherings. Working with the youths from other religions has drawn us all closer to the beautiful work of building bridges and breaking down walls of division.

I hope the youth groups will do more presentations on Inter-Religious Dialogue on future events especially in these uncertain times. Surely we must affirm human solidarity!

Finally, I wish to say Inter-Religious Dialogue is increasing and being recognized by different religions and I intend to continue this challenging work in the coming years.