Rethinking Effective Approaches in Church’s Evangelizing Mission in Asia

This is an article written by Fr Jojo Fung (MAS) for a book publication by Penerbit Ledalero (Ledalero Publishing House) at the STFK (Catholic Institute of Philosophy and Theology) in Ledalero, where John Prior SVD, a well known Asian theologian, has been lecturing for more than 25 years. The book is in honor of John’s 65th birthday in gratitude for his dedication to academic progress, in particular in Ledalero, and as a contribution of STFK Ledalero towards the development of contextual theology in Indonesia.

Building companionship and dialogue

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Sch Ladislas Nsengiyumva (CHN) joined the Scholastics and Brothers-in-Formation Assembly in December 20, 2010 – January 2, 2011. It was centered on the theme of Interreligious Dialogue. Bro Ladi wrote, “We started from sharing in groups about our personal experiences with Islam in our own countries followed by a three day live-in experience with Muslim youths in Pesantrens (Schools teaching Islamic Studies). This combination of sharing and experience led me to realize how little and often distorted was my knowledge about Islam. I personally knew that there were two categories of Muslims – moderate and radical Muslims – but I had never had the opportunity to sit together with any of these two groups. This time, I had the chance not only to share meals with the moderate Muslims, but also to pray together in their Mosque. It was for me an eye opening and heartwarming experience.”

Christmas in the Qur’an

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The Qur’an, which was revealed about 600 years after the New Testament, tells the story of Christmas in its own way.  An account of the birth of Jesus occurs in more than one of its 114 Surahs (or chapters).  In these accounts, we find a clear emphasis on the virgin birth of Jesus and an announcement that Jesus was sent by God with a message of peace for all mankind. 

Threats to national character

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Rampant consumerism and religious extremism pose a dual threat to Indonesia's national character; Fr Franz Magnis-Suseno (IDO) of Jakarta's Driyarkara School of Philosophy warned speaking to about 80 participants at a June 2 symposium in Jakarta organized by the Democratic National, an organization dedicated to creating integral freedom in Indonesia.

Animating dialogue with Buddhism

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The Seven Fountains Spirituality Center in Chiang Mai, Thailand witnessed the gathering of a few of the Jesuits who are engaged in the area of Buddhism. It was for them, a first-time opportunity to communicate with fellow brothers face to face. The occasion was the Workshop on Buddhist-Christian dialogue held last April 23 – 25. The participants including Fr. Mark Raper were ten, of which two were from India. Fr Cyril Veliath (JPN), JCAP Coordinator for Dialogue with Buddhism, gave this report.

eRenlai explores inter-religious dialogue

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eRenlai's March Focus explores the state of inter-religious dialogue within various countries, cultures and grassroots communities in Asia. It starts with an interview of Fr Jerry Martinson (CHN) who talks about meditating with Buddhist monks and the dynamics of interfaith dialogue in Asia through his experiences during and after filming the documentary Pilgrims in Dialogue in 1991.