Projects & Liaisons
Liaison to Sanctuaries for Humanity
Sanctuaries for Humanity is an initiative of Subud members who share a vision of creating places where people can reconnect with nature, with one another and with the deeper dimensions of being human. At its heart is the belief that universal love, care for one another and respect for the natural world can provide a foundation for healthier and more meaningful ways of living.
The project is working towards turning this vision into reality by identifying suitable properties in natural surroundings where such sanctuaries could be developed. These are envisioned as places of refuge, healing and renewal, offering a nurturing environment in which physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing can be supported through connection with nature and a caring community. In the longer term, the vision embraces holistic approaches to health and healing, nutrition, education and creativity, alongside a commitment to environmental responsibility and peaceful human relationships.
Liaison to the "Mental Ilness, Crises and the Latihan" Subcommittee
The aim of the Mental Illness, Crises, and the Latihan Subcommittee is to raise awareness about mental illness and spiritual crises within the Subud community.
It also seeks to share experiences, offer guidance, and support helpers in accompanying members who are dealing with mental health challenges.
This work is carried out in collaboration with the international helpers, through regional workshops and the development of written guidelines.
Liaison to "Listening with Love"
We were introduced to the practice of "Listening with Love" by our Subud brother Jamil Hugenholtz, a former regression therapist and teacher who is now retired and remains passionate about the importance of truly listening to one another.
Listening with Love is a simple yet powerful way of creating a safe and respectful space in which another person can speak openly and feel genuinely heard. At its heart is the practice of listening with full attention – without interrupting, judging, analysing, giving advice or immediately trying to find solutions. By simply being present and allowing someone to express what they need to express, we can create a space of trust and acceptance that may support deeper understanding, connection and, at times, healing.
Liaison to The Wellbeing Group - Cultivating a Culture of Care
The Wellbeing Group was founded by members of Subud Britain. It grew out of experiences of conflict and hurt within Subud and a shared wish to create spaces where members can speak openly and be truly heard. Over time, the group developed a structured “Safe Space” approach based on confidentiality, respect and attentive listening – without interrupting, advising, analysing or judging.
Their vision is to help cultivate a culture of care, understanding and mutual support within Subud, complementing the latihan and testing with essential human skills such as listening, communication, healthy boundaries and constructive ways of dealing with conflict. Following encouraging experiences at the Subud Britain Congress, the group is now exploring online Safe Spaces, more individually Supported Spaces, and ways of sharing these skills more widely within the Subud community.
Liaison to CEA & the Gratitude Program
CEA International is a Subud-inspired organisation supporting ethical and socially responsible entrepreneurship through economic, educational, technical and advisory assistance. Its work is guided by the principle “Give – Receive – Give.”
Of particular interest to SIHA is CEA International's GRATITUDE Programme (2018-2026):
Based on a Socio-Emotional Model this initiative supports elderly people while fostering meaningful connections between generations. Through community activities, young people are invited to engage with seniors, learn from their life experience and skills, and contribute their own energy and companionship. The programme aims to strengthen wellbeing, dignity, participation and a sense of purpose in later life, while encouraging younger generations to develop a deeper understanding of ageing.
The GRATITUDE Programme is based on three pillars:
1) Home care (for our brothers and sisters and their immediate families and social environment).
2) Group meetings: Educational and developmental to strengthen socio-emotional bonds.
3) An inter-institutional and multidisciplinary network which supports and introduces the programme to the community. It is established in collaboration with public and private institutions, as well as civil society. The aim is to ensure the programme’s long-term sustainability.
CEA International aims to deliver this wonderful programme, called GRATITUDE, to our elderly members and their local communities as a legacy for our Subud organisation wherever it is implemented.
