Dear Muslim Friends:
As you celebrate Eid al-Fitr ending your month-long holy fasting of Ramadan, I greet you on behalf of the Archdiocese of Cotabato, “Eid mubarak!”
We share in your joy as you visit your relatives, friends and neighbors. We share in your sentiments of charity as you give alms and help the needy and the poor. We, Christians, have similar values in our traditions that stem from the message and example of our Lord Jesus Christ.
I learned that the al-Azhar Permanent Committee for Dialogue among Monotheistic Religions in Cairo is reflecting on the theme: “Together in overcoming violence among followers of different religions.” The Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue in Rome is doing the same. How imperative this topic has been for us in the past several decades in our beloved Mindanao, especially as the search for peace hopefully resumes.
The month of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr stir in your hearts deep religious sentiments of joy, of fellowship, and of charity. On our part we shall soon celebrate the season of Advent, a season for us of physical and spiritual sacrifice, a special time to combat our inner passions and act for the good of others. May we seize the moment of these spiritual experiences to pray and act together for peace. With the Almighty and most beneficent God, we can surely prevail over all obstacles and finally come to that just and lasting peace we all desire.
Once again, Eid mubarak!
+Orlando B. Quevedo, O.M.I.
Archbishop of Cotabato
