Addressing the Critical Challenges of our Time: The Role and Responsibility of Religious Leaders and Faith-Based Organizations presented to: The Interreligious Leadership Conference

Dr. S.B. Radebe An Indigenous African Prophet, A Champion Of Change

Thank you Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, co-Founder of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) and the American Clergy Leadership Conference (ACLC), Dr. Thomas Walsh, chairman of UPF, Esteemed guests, Ladies and gentlemen,

WHAT CAUSES RELIGIOUS CONFLICT?

The basis for most religions (scripture and dogma) are open to interpretation which leads to disagreement on meaning. Religion is based on strict systems which define methods of worship. The need to protect set doctrines, symbols and practices causes religion to be averse to change. Religions some times focus on differences more than they do on the commonalities that exist.

The 5 Keys to Resolving Religious Conflict

The solution to creating peace, tolerance, unity and understanding among religious leaders is predicated on spirituality Embrace spirituality as universal above any religion or doctrine Exercise love and humility Focus on the end goal of connecting to God Practice acceptance and tolerance Constant engagement between religious leaders on issues of spirituality

1. Embracing Spirituality as Universal Above Any Religion

I define spirituality as the ultimate connection to God. Hence spirituality is universal Human beings are created as body and spirit Spirituality completely resonates with the love and care for life of people, nature, animals, plants and the environment as part of God’s creation Spirituality is not subject to doctrine or any specific belief system Leaders must primarily connect to God through spirituality to attain these attributes

2. Exercising Humility

Effective leaders are clocked with boundless humility Humble leaders consider the needs and situations of others by applying empathy and social intelligence at all times Humility is not arrogance reversed. There is therefore no room for pride and arrogance in our leadership As leaders we must recognize that we all need to succeed and achieve our spiritual goal to connect with God Let humility be the glue that connects all leaders to the will of God

3. Focus on the End Goal of Connecting to God

Leaders must maintain their spiritual focus in order to achieve a lasting relationship with God Leaders must unconditionally be dependant on God for guidance Leaders must be attuned to God at all times This will enable them to find common ground among different religions

4. Practice tolerance and compromise

Religious leaders must accept that diversity defines our humanness We must open up to differing views, opinions, ideas and even beliefs as a basis for accommodating other denominations with spirituality being at the centre Tolerance must be built on the understanding that one does not deny their own commitment to their own beliefs but displays respect for others Tolerant leaders do not condemn, disrespect, oppress or persecute others because of their beliefs

Lessons From My Own Leadership

Commemoration of African prophets – this is an initiative to acknowledge and recognize the contribution of prominent African spiritual leaders, including prophets whose work has never been properly documented before. This platform provides an opportunity for unifying leaders and communities from diverse denominations. Dialogues – this is one of the most effective communication platforms when deliberating on pertinent issues affecting religion and the African continent and by extension the Korean Peninsula and Northeast Asia. Dialogues have become a think tank and thought leadership hub for religious, community and business leaders across Africa.

Tutoring of pastors and priests from varied denominations - having provided on-going guidance and support to leaders of other churches and denominations I have discovered the growing need to teach and nurture others to achieve spiritual growth. 4. Mentoring traditional leaders to build trust and confidence among their followers, and helping them infuse spirituality into their leadership roles.

Dialogues

Tutoring & Mentoring

Thank You