| As our communities
become increasingly diverse, there is a greater need for all
of us to become better informed about the people and faith
backgrounds around us.
The diversity in a community really becomes
apparent on a Sunday afternoon in the local park. The smells
of curry, fried chicken, hot dogs and kebabs from different
picnic tables mingle in the air as children of all faiths
gather on the playground.
Their parents, however, are often more hesitant
to engage in a similar level of interaction. Perhaps it’s
a fear of causing offence or a lack of understanding of cultural
practices.
Most religions have a profound sense of responsibility
to assist others. Sacred texts, founders or prophets, and
the theology of faith groups raise expectations and obligations
that participants must reach out to others in compassion,
seeking justice and promoting peace.
How can your organization better serve people
from other faith communities? How can your organization engage
people from other faith groups to get involved and contribute
to our community work?
The faith community and religious-based organizations
are major resources for building community, and addressing
social and systemic issues. As our society becomes increasingly
culturally diverse, there is a need for increased dialogue
between different religious groups, agencies and organizations
to learn what motivates people and what aspects of faith we
have in common.
As community organizations and coalitions
launch various campaigns or begin working on community issues,
integrating additional faith communities can be beneficial
for the following reasons:
- Faith communities have theological and ethical resources,
which may ground a community service or advocacy issue
in a deep moral and philosophical tradition. Justice,
for example, is a well-grounded concept in all of the
Abrahamic faiths: Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
- Faith communities are often networked with other local
organizations and congregations, or are connected to regional,
provincial/state, national and worldwide associations.
- Faith communities have members or participants who can
enhance the volunteer base.
- Faith communities have other useful resources, including
finances, buildings, tax-exempt status, as well as positive
relationships with other community leaders.
- Faith communities can bring needed legitimacy and status
to a new coalition, idea or organization. Foundations,
donors and politicians often look to see who is involved
in a community initiative before lending their support.
Do you have some tips on interfaith dialogue
and communication? Are you a member of an interfaith coalition?
Please share your thoughts and learning with us! E-mail
us with your comments, ideas and resources.
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