In October, a group of Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) animators gathered in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah to discuss the shape and function of the new Franciscan Network for Peace and Integral Ecology in Asia, and how it can respond to JPIC issues in the region.
The network is the result of a resolution at the Franciscan Conference of Asia and Oceania (FCAO) meeting in April 2024. The FCAO comprises the East Asia Conference (EAC) and the South Asia, Australia, and Oceania Conference (SAAOC).
As JPIC Animator of the Custody of Saint Anthony (Malaysia-Singapore-Brunei), I hosted the meeting, held from 17-23 October 2024, with Sr Marina Anjuman OFS, National Minister of the Secular Franciscans (OFS) in Malaysia.
At the meeting were representatives from the two conferences as well as the Secular Franciscans, the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, Franciscans International, the General Office for JPIC, and the General Secretariat for Mission and Evangelisation.
In addition, Minister General Friar Massimo Fusarelli OFM and Definitor General for Asia and Oceania Friar John Wong OFM called in to address us. They emphasised the importance of coordinating JPIC and Mission and Evangelisation efforts, and expressed their hope that the new network would become a platform for our collective contribution towards building a better world.
A wide range of topics of importance to Asia were discussed – migration (human trafficking, refugees, and asylum seekers), extractive industries (mining, tourism, which threaten the living space of small communities), climate change and the threat to indigenous peoples, and the violation of human rights experienced by indigenous peoples.
Friar Gregorio Lino Redoblado OFM, President of the EAC, also called in to the meeting. He emphasised the importance of coordinating efforts as a united Franciscan family to work toward justice, peace, and integral ecology. He urged that we not remain a “sleeping giant” but respond actively to the challenges and needs in Asia. By working together, we will become a stronger force for good.
Friar Derrick Yap OFM, President of the SAAOC, too stressed the need to work as one family, with a common vision and goal. He asked us to reflect on whether we see ourselves as masters or stewards of this world. JPIC should never be placed on the back burner, he said, encouraging us to spread the messages of the key documents, especially at the local level, for greater effectiveness. Friar Derrick also pointed out that a contemplative dimension must be central to our approach, urging us to reject greed.
The programme included a visit, led by Sr Calista FSIC, to the villagers of Bolotikon, Papar to learn about their Forest Conservation project for water catchment, as well as activities to learn about the culture and traditions of the ethnic communities in Sabah.
The group also learned about the Franciscan family in Sabah. We made a courtesy visit to the Mother General of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, and met with the sisters, and with members of the Secular Franciscans.
At the conclusion of the meeting, everyone agreed that the network would promote new initiatives in seeking peace with others and all creation; build collaboration amongst Franciscan brothers and sisters (religious and lay) especially regarding peace building, nonviolence, and care for mother earth; and seek opportunities for dialogue with other beliefs and cultures, in the spirit of Assisi.
Friar Cosmas Francis OFM
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