Interfaith Youth Gather in Tanay for the 12th Peace Camp

More than 150 young adults and nearly 30 faith leaders from diverse religious traditions came together for the 12th Interfaith Youth Peace Camp, held at the For the Strength of Youth (FSY) Facility in Tanay, Rizal. United under the theme “Celebrating Peace Amidst Division and Conflicts,” participants spent a full day building friendships, deepening understanding, and strengthening their shared commitment to peace.

The peace camp was sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as part of its continuing support for interfaith cooperation and youth development. Church leaders noted that the initiative reflects the Savior Jesus Christ’s teachings to love one another and care for all of God’s children—regardless of race, religion, or background. Strengthening the rising generation through faith, service, and positive relationships remains a key priority of the Church.

The day began early as participants gathered at Aurora Chapel for registration, the distribution of camp shirts and tumblers, and a healthy, hearty breakfast. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm as youth from different faith backgrounds prepared for a day of learning, creativity, and shared experience.

Participants represented numerous faith communities and organizations, including The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Fo Guang Shan, Franciscan Missionaries of the Good Shepherd, Immaculate Heart of Mary College–Parañaque, the Roman Catholic Commission on Social Communications, Iglesia Filipina Independiente, the National Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Lector-Commentator Ministry, Iglesia Unida Ekyumenikal (IUE), Singles for Christ, Born Again Christian communities, and the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Bishop Mel Rey Uy, from the Diocese of Lucena, delivered the opening remarks. He emphasized that we must be united in purpose and to work for peace.

 Youth were intentionally grouped across faith traditions to encourage meaningful interaction and collaboration. One of the early activities involved cheer and banner-making, where participants creatively interpreted the camp theme using shared ideas, symbols, and messages that reflected unity despite diversity.

A central highlight of the camp was a session on mental health and peacebuilding, led by Dr. John Ismael Medina, RPm, LPT, PhD, of Religions for Peace Philippines and the Asia and the Pacific Interfaith Youth Network. He reminded participants that peacebuilding begins within the individual.

“In our work to build peace across communities, we often forget that the first community we must care for is the one within ourselves,” Dr. Medina said. “You cannot pour from an empty cup.”

He emphasized that lasting peace requires attention to mental and emotional well-being, noting that the relationship between mental health, peace, and public happiness is multidimensional and reciprocal. Peace with oneself, he explained, strengthens peace with others.

Following the talk, participants engaged in a reflective group activity centered on the “tree of common roots.” The roots represented shared values, the branches symbolized individual experiences and expressions, and the fruit illustrated collective and personal actions that nurture mental health and peace.

The camp also included physical and team-building games that highlighted participants’ intellectual creativity, physical stamina, and spirit of cooperation. Laughter and encouragement echoed across the grounds as youth supported one another across faith lines.

In his closing remarks, President Craig Barredo, Stake President of the Morong Philippines Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, invited participants to place their trust in the Savior’s promises as they face life’s challenges.

President Barredo emphasized that peace and direction in life come when individuals seek God first, noting that when faith is placed at the center, lives become more ordered and purposeful. He encouraged the youth to follow Jesus Christ’s example by dedicating their lives to Him through love, service, and obedience to God’s teachings.

He reminded participants that true discipleship is shown by loving all brothers and sisters, without exception, and by choosing compassion and understanding even in times of division.

By the end of the day, many participants shared that the experience left a lasting impact.

“It was very fun,” said Jesu Miguel Tanbonliong from Immaculate Heart of May College - Paranaque. “All the activities were worth all the pagod [hard work]. Thank you very much for this event.”

Another participant, Amiel Dallin Gordo from Makati East Philippines Stake added, “We want to join again next year. I love it.”