Three Communication Patterns
There are three communication patterns that need to be applied in the initiation of the moderation village. First, the communication pattern in social relations. This communication can be driven from social activities, such as communal work, volunteer work, community meetings, and neighborhood watches. These activities are managed to involve people from various elements. With this step, a social ecosystem happens with warm and intimate communication. Aspects of mutual aid and helping each other form social solidarity and eliminate tension between different religious followers.
Second, the communication pattern in relation to tradition-culture. The direction of this communication pattern places locality values (tradition-culture activities) as the main supporter behind achieving harmony. We know that various cultural patterns have taken deep root and decorated every corner of the region. Therefore, whenever local culture is carried out – Grebeg Suran, Nyadran, Ruwatan, or other traditions – it should involve all existing religious elements. Interfaith people are given the task of collaborating in filling in the plot divisions; some guard parking, monitor events, to health posts. At the peak of the activity, a cross-religious prayer can be held. Each religious figure will then have the opportunity to take turns.
Third, the communication pattern in relation to religion. Every village must create a dialogical forum. This forum is intended as one alternative communication to solve and clarify religious issues, such as truth claims, and potential conflicts between religions.
The forum must also involve cross-religious figures. The role of religious figures is so important, as they are viewed as charismatic figures. What they convey and do often becomes a reference to be followed by their followers. Therefore, religious figures must be role models in maintaining good relations with followers of other religions. Also, every figure needs to develop an interpretation that tends to have a spirit of justice and harmony. Thus, religious teachings become functional, able to create human coexistence.
That’s the significance and optimization of the moderation village. In the end, we must not overlook the grassroots scope. Empowering grassroots, however, yields prestigious outcomes that have a comprehensive impact. As mentioned above, the formation of evenly distributed moderation-themed villages will result in peace and non-violence. And that is directly proportional to the realization of harmony in Indonesia.