Faith Leaders Dialogue aims to develop understanding of reconciliation

In a bid to develop a common understanding of reconciliation, truth-telling, forgiveness and healing, approximately 60 leaders and representatives of various major faith groups in Fiji spent 3 days in deep dialogue on National Reconciliation this week.

The 3 day Faith Leaders Dialogue on National Reconciliation was organised by the Fiji Council of Churches in Partnership with the Pacific Conference of Churches, supported by the Australian Government's Pacific Church Partnership Programme.

The dialogue was also successful in developing the role of faith communities in not only a national process but also among and within communities.

Fiji Council of Churches General Secretary, Reverend Sepiuta Hala'api'api says the gathering was an important one with people of different faiths, communities, perspectives, and views all coming together, with their voices because of their love for Fiji.

Rev Hala’api’api says the process was very unique for faith-based leaders, getting together, praying together, listening, and discerning what the spirit was saying through each one of them.

She says this is how they could see that they, even though they are of different faiths, have a common goal for the nation, especially with truth-telling trauma healing and with reconciliation process.

She adds that there was also a consensus on faith leaders and communities collaborating behind social cohesion and on other key issues affecting the nation such as drugs and HIV/AIDS.

Pacific Conference of Churches General Secretary, Reverend James Bhagwan says that faith groups have been quietly working together to build up trust to engage in open dialogue on a challenging issue.

He says although the gathering was closed to the general public and media for a safe space for dialogue, the outcomes of the gathering will be presented in the next two weeks.