Several staff from Christian Church Theological School Indonesia (CCTSI) participated recently in an International Peace Camp. This camp was facilitated by people from different Christian and Islamic backgrounds.
We know that inter-religious dialogue helps promote peace. Our scriptures, from the Bible, tell us that we are to be agents of peace to the world.
Those in attendance of the camp were from several theological schools, Muslim boarding schools and an Islamic university. There were also present volunteers who encourage peace programs throughout Indonesia.
For two days we shared our stories and learned how to forgive and apologise for the sake of peace. We made new friends with brothers and sisters from different places. To think and talk through how to handle conflicts without violence, to choose peace and love.
The slogan for the camp was ‘peace starts with me’. We must start with making sure that we are persons of peace, then asking God to help us love others as our neighbours.
The goal is not superficial but a real transformation, which can make our world a better place. We can learn to embrace harmony and peace, regardless of religious and ethnic diversities, and showing love to our neighbours.
Dr Hery Susanto. CCTSI Director