We are continuing to explore the meaning of the Badaliya by deepening our understanding of Louis Massignon's original intent. In our time we are called to a different expression of it yet realize that we also need to be grounded in the essence of Badaliya as a spiritual call.
Grounded in the monthly prayer gathering of the original Badaliya, Massignon grew to more and more involvement in the Muslim community and its well being. Beyond the Christian/Muslim dialogue and founding a shared pilgrimage that survives to this day, he volunteered for thirty years to teach French and Mathematics to Algerian political prisoners and finally in his late seventies marched in the streets of Paris for an Independent Algeria in the 1950's and early 1960's.
Today we are challenged to allow the Badaliya to open our hearts to welcome our Muslim neighbors and move us towards reconciliation through mutual trust and understanding. It is a journey that we must begin with our own conversion of hearts.
We welcome the many folks from around the world who are joining us in spirit at each of our gatherings held on the last Thursday of each month.
Pace e Bene,
Bapa Jun Mercado, OMI
November 18, 2013
Cotabato City
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