Marist Students with Columban IRD Coordinator Pescila Magdalin - Photo: Pescila Magdalin
High School Student Shares Powerful Reflection on Interreligious Dialogue and Peacebuilding
In a time when the world faces increasing divisions, a young Catholic student from Marist Brothers High School has taken a bold step in advocating for unity and understanding across religious lines. After attending a powerful session on Interreligious Dialogue, the student shared a heartfelt video reflecting on the importance of reaching out to people of other faiths.
The session introduced students to the core idea of Interreligious Dialogue: open and respectful communication between people of different religious traditions. The student expressed how eye-opening the experience was, noting that while their Catholic faith remains central, they now see more clearly the value of listening to and learning from others.
"Before, I saw differences in religion as something to be cautious about," the student said. "Now, I understand that our differences don’t have to divide us. They can teach us something deeper about humanity, love, and God’s presence in the world."
The video emphasized the urgent need for such dialogue in today’s world, highlighting that misunderstanding and prejudice often stem from ignorance or fear. The student called on peers to be bridges of peace, quoting Pope Francis’ call for young people to be “artisans of peace and unity.”
The message was simple but profound: Peace begins when we sit together, speak honestly, and see each other not as threats, but as fellow children of God.
This powerful reflection reminds us all - young and old - of the vital role young people can play in building a more compassionate and peaceful world. Through small acts of openness and respect, we can shape the future of interfaith harmony.
Pescila Magdalin
Columban Interreligious Dialogue Coordinator
Peace begins when we sit together as children of God - Photo: Pescila Madgalin
