Third Space Ecclesia: Women Promoting Justice and Peace in Conflict Zones

This chapter examines the lived experiences and the roles of women in the advancement of peace and social justice in conflict zones in the Philippines. This chapter also discusses the challenges they encountered and identifies best practices and lessons learned in promoting social justice and peace in their communities. Drawing upon field observation and interviews, I delve into the contributions of women to peace-building and social justice initiatives in their communities. I analyze the role of gender and other intersecting social locating factors, such as social class, race and ethnicity, religion, and nationality, among others, in facilitating women’s involvement in the promotion of interfaith dialogue and solidarity, the alleviation of gender-based violence, and the provision of social services and safety nets for internally displaced people. I assert that women’s involvement in justice and peace-building initiatives in conflict zones forms part of the journey of the People of God in proclaiming Gospel values and building life-giving communities, which is at the heart of synodality. Thus, the chapter shows how the inclusion of women’s perspectives in promoting justice and peace contributes to the mission of the Church in building a synodal third space for women.