FAQs
1. What are the Racial and Religious Harmony Circles (Harmony Circle)?
The Racial and Religious Harmony Circles – better known as Harmony Circle – are local-level interfaith platforms in every constituency, formed to promote racial and religious harmony.
2. When was the Harmony Circle formed? Who are the members of Harmony Circles?
Members of Harmony Circles comprise leaders from religious and ethnic-based organisations, as well as community organisations located within each constituency. Harmony Circles in the various constituencies adhere to the same mission – to build close ties between people regardless of their race or religion.
3. What do Harmony Circles do?
The Harmony Circles serve as important bridges between religious, ethnic and community groups at the local grassroots level. Leaders from these diverse groups come together to form the Harmony Circle network to build friendship and trust among each other.
The Harmony Circles also aim to deepen people’s understanding of the various faiths, beliefs and practices through inter-faith and inter-ethnic themed activities such as heritage trails, inter-faith talks and various ethnic and religious celebrations.
In addition, the Harmony Circles are trained to respond quickly to racial and religious tensions. Harmony Circles will be the key links to disseminate timely and accurate information and to maintain confidence in the community.
4. What are some of Harmony Circle’s programmes?
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Networking Sessions
Regular networking sessions and focus group discussions create opportunities for members and stakeholders representing various religious-, community-, and cultural-based organisations to interact and exchange ideas, so as to foster stronger bonds and facilitate synergies for collaborative efforts in promoting inter-faith understanding. -
Interfaith Dialogues
Dialogue enhances understanding and appreciation of the different faiths and beliefs though sharing of knowledge and perspectives from religious leaders and representatives. -
Interfaith Visits
Guided visits to places of worship allow for greater insights into the various faiths and their religious practices. Participants will be able to better appreciate Singapore’s rich heritage and religious diversity through first hand experience and in-depth explanations from religious leaders and representatives. -
Harmony Circle Cares
Launched in 2009, “Harmony Circle Cares” aims to help the less privileged in the community through a series of fund-raising and/or charity projects. The programme allows community leaders, religious organisations and partners to connect with one another, forge relationships and play their part for the less fortunate. It is a good example of the Harmony Circle’s commitment in constantly exploring new ways of interaction and communication. Such efforts cultivate a caring, compassionate and gracious society, and ultimately strengthen the foundations of racial and religious harmony. -
Capability-building Programmes
Courses, workshops and crisis-preparedness exercises are conducted monthly to equip members with the skills and knowledge to facilitate their work in promoting inter-faith harmony and overcome challenges in maintaining peace in the community.
5. How can I volunteer with the Harmony Circles?
Please indicate your interest via feedback@harmonycircle.sg and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
6. Who can I contact for enquiries/feedback?
Kindly send your queries to feedback@harmonycircle.sg and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
7. Where can I follow the latest news and activities of Harmony Circles?
Please like and follow us on our social media platforms for more updated news of Harmony Circle.