On October 25 & 26, 2023, 123 youths, representing diverse religious backgrounds including Muslim, Christian, and Hindu faiths, hailing from 40 villages in the Poso District, came together to engage in a profound cultural exploration in Tokorondo village. This transformative event centered on the theme of Mutual Trust.
In this enlightening cultural immersion, these youths delved into three focal points: fish baskets, sea fishermen, and seaweed farmers. Despite its tumultuous past, Tokorondo Village, once marred by conflicts associated with extremist Islamic movements, witnessed a shift towards harmony, catalyzed by the inspiring actions of Sarino, a Muslim woman. Sarino's simple yet powerful gesture of using a fish basket to sell fish to Christian families symbolized the dawn of something new and beautiful- interfaith trust amidst turbulent times, fostering bridges of understanding between religious communities.
The participants not only absorbed the essence of peace embedded within Tokorondo's sea culture but also engaged in various conversations with Sarino's mother, further deepening their appreciation for interfaith harmony. This event helped to ease the suspicions and trauma endured by Christians in Tokorondo by Muslims, while simultaneously instilling a renewed sense of pride and confidence within the community.
Significantly, this gathering marked the first instance where hundreds of young individuals from non-Muslim faiths were graciously hosted in a Muslim household in Tokorondo, exemplifying the triumph of empathy and understanding over divisive narratives.
The culmination of this remarkable journey was marked by a celebration of unity through the traditional Modero dance, once forbidden due to its perceived association with Christianity. As the event drew to a close, the spirit of solidarity and trust resonated as hundreds of young souls affixed their signatures to a Charter of Mutual Trust, symbolizing their commitment to fostering enduring bonds of understanding and cooperation across religious lines.
