CSCS+19 Pop up the Soul | Humanity Matters

CSCS Returns @ CSCS

CYBERSPACE HAS EXPANDED COMMON SPACES.
HAS COVID 19 INFECTED OUR COMMON SENSES?

Singapore, 19 June 2021 - The Common Senses for Common Spaces (CSCS) interfaith dialogue series returns with a revised and new edition of CSCS +19. The new series includes exploration into the influence of cyberspace which is a highly frequented and globally-connected common space and the Covid-19 new normal where many are anchored at home and online for work, study, socialisation and recreation.

The CSCS series provides a safe space for interfaith cohesion & confidence by adopting a non-theological, practical and social approach which creatively and subtly centres on religious practices that risk social dilemma or distress across shared common spaces.

Entitled ‘Pop Up the Soul’, four faith practitioners of Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim and Taoist subscriptions deliberated discussed on primary precepts practices, sounds senses, rhythms rituals, music moods across faiths faithfuls. Coincidentally, a recent case of bell ringing ritual caused a stir between neighbours along a HDB corridor which went viral online.

Here is a glimpse & glean of the dialogue.

HM Chairman Ong Keng Yong hosts the 50 pax pilot dialogue session comprising an interesting mix of baby boomers, millennials, citizens, residents, and faith, youth, community corporate leaders Parliamentary Secretary Eric Chua (MCCY MSF) graced the pilot CSCS 19 as the Guest of Honour Permanent Member of the Presidential Council for Minority Rights, Mr Abdullah Tarmugi, joins as Special Guest.

(L-R) Chung Kwang Tong, 37 (Moderator); Edwin Ignatious (Islam); Lee Kang Lian, 30 (Taoism); Losheini Ravindran, 25 (Hinduism); Pung Zheng Jie, 36 (Buddhism)

[left] Benjamin Lyman, 29, seeking advice on what would constitute too much or too little concerning ‘moderation’ in religious practices.

[middle] Dr. Noor Huda underlines the importance of ‘context’, taking significant consideration the elements of ‘time’ & ‘space’.

[above left] A/P Kumar Ramakrishnan calls on faith leaders to provide more & closer guidance to their flocks especially in uncommon and trying times e.g a pandemic.

[above middle] Mr. Abdullah Tarmugi feels society must go beyond tolerance which connotes having to endure negativity in others. Understanding & acceptance must be the aim, approach & attitude.

[above right] Ven. Phrakru Sophon Buddhikun emphasises every religion teaches goodness. The only race that matters is the human race. There is no reason nor right to religion branding. Religion is not merely ritual but has to be intellectual, and the need to be able to distinguish religious from cultural practices.

In his closing keynote, Guest-of-Honour PS Eric Chua reckons the character of multiculturalism in Singapore is akin to the ‘Rojak’ delicacy –while the elements are delicately mixed and laced with a common sauce, each retains its own distinct essences.