NAINEWS & I NTERFAITH DIGEST

 
The NEWSLETTER OF THE NORTH AMERICAN INTERFAITH NETWORK~ SPRING 1999 ~

This newsletter is published by the North American Interfaith Network, Inc., to assist in communications among NAIN Member Organizations and throughout the interfaith movement. A limited number of copies are sent to each member group in the Network and to all Board members.

Free samples are available on request. NAINews is printed two times each year, in Spring and Fall.

Send to the Managing Editor any information, resources, reviews, articles, photos, and letters that you wish considered for publication. Priority is given to NAIN members, but others are welcome to submit materials. All submissions are subject to editing. Opinions or ideas expressed are the writers'; they do not necessarily represent the views of the NAIN Board, the Editor, nor any member. For membership information or to become a Friend of NAIN, see Coupon at the end of this newsletter.

Managing Editor of NAINews: Joel Beversluis, 6264 Grand River Dr. NE, Ada, MI 49301 USA tel. 616 682-9022 / fax 616 682-9023 / email: conexus@iserv.net

CONTENTS:

THE BEST OPPORTUNITY FOR INTERFAITH NETWORKING     —NAINConnect99: From NAIN's Executive Committee
International Interfaith Conferences in 1999
Thanksgiving and Forgiveness, World Assembly
Annual Youth Awards Program
Guest Editorial: Building a Movement: Forging a New Congregation, by Ralph Singh
Interfaith Events Calendar
The Interfaith Digest
        Seeking Unity in the Community of Religions
        Young Interfaith Organizations
        Responding to Conflict and Disasters
        Christian Ecumenical Councils Expanding to Interfaith Program
        Media and Publications
        Web Sites
Organizational Structure of NAIN

The Annual Conference of the North American Interfaith Network  

What new initiatives should interfaith movements make as we cross the millennial threshold to a world where our neighbors near and far will be quite different from us in their beliefs, lifestyles and needs?

What are others doing to address the needs we see? What can we do?

Join us for "Interfaith Initiatives: Dialogue, Transformation and Action in the New Millennium."

NAINConnect99 is this year's annual gathering of the member organizations and friends of the North American Interfaith Network. It provides a unique opportunity to 'connect' about the cutting-edge interfaith work being and to make new contacts and refresh old ones at the local, regional and international levels.

NAINConnect99 provides opportunities for interfaith organizations, academic institutions, media, interfaith offices, and interested individuals to share their work, to test new ideas and to gain an understanding of interfaith initiatives around the world. It is one of NAIN's most important networking opportunities.

August 29th-31st 1999, Chautauqua Institution, New York

The Conference program begins Sunday afternoon with registration and the opening Board meeting. Conference participants will gather at the Opening Dinner with speaker, the Opening Interfaith Worship, and a Social Evening. (Kosher and vegetarian meal options are provided throughout the Conference.)

On Monday, we'll begin the early morning Spiritual Gatherings to observe and experience spiritual rituals and prayers in a variety of world faith traditions, followed by Faith Explorations--extended conversations with members of a community; then we'll gather for the Introduction to the Open Space "technology", two Workshop sessions, a Reception, Banquet, and Panel on International Interfaith Initiatives.

Tuesday follows the same pattern of Spiritual Gatherings and Faith Explorations, and workshops, adding a Young Adult Panel, the Open Space Convergence and Reports, the Membership Meeting, and the Closing Program. On Wednesday we'll have Breakfast and Farewells, and the closing meeting of the Board of Directors.

Following the successful experiment in Open Space workshops at the 1997 NAIN conference, all participants will have the opportunity to offer workshop content, interests areas, needs, and skills during the three workshop sessions. What are the new initiatives--the exciting cutting edge work in interfaith programming? Open Space "technology," which is now used as a process for meeting management with all types of organizations, was created in 1984 by Harrison Owen to facilitate active participation, distributed leadership, and diverse agendas. At the NAIN conference, you won't just be listening to "experts" on pre-arranged topics. Rather, we and you are all potential presenters and the interacting audience. We'll create the content options together, based on a democratic process of proposals and selection during the Introduction on Monday morning, and then vote with our feet. So, when you come to NAINConnect99, be sure to bring your ideas and experiences with initiatives, issues, your passions, or questions!

The conference is being held at the picturesque and historic 750-acre education and arts center in the northwest corner of the state of New York. Since its founding 125 years ago, the Institution's schools, conference centers, and public programs offer art, music, dance, theatre, writing skills, religious education, professional performances, and lectures on cultural and current issues. The Institution also offers recreational opportunities such as golf, boating, hiking, and tennis. During the week preceeding NAINConnect99, multi-faith seminars will be held in conjunction with the Institution's educational programming (see details on page 2).

Brochures and registration forms with lodging information are available from NAIN Board members and member organizations, or by contacting Ralph Singh, Box 4980, Syracuse, NY 13221 USA, or call: 1-315-449-3000.

From NAIN's Executive Committee

As has become our custom, the NAIN Executive Committee met mid-year at the site of our next NAINConnect, which will take place from August 29-31 at the Chautauqua Institution in upstate New York. Joining us in February were representatives of NAIN member organizations from the region, who, along with members of the Executive Committee, have offered to take responsibility for various aspects of the conference.

Bruce Gregersen of the United Church of Canada is the NAIN program chair who will work closely with Kay Lindahl, from the Alliance for Spiritual Community, on the Open Space Process. Steve Anderson, representing the Interfaith Council of New York, oversaw the printing of the conference brochures, which were mailed out by Ralph Singh, of Gobind Sadan USA. Joan Kirby, Executive Director of the Temple of Understanding, will take care of arranging all of the meals during the conference except for the banquet, which will be planned by Elizabeth Espersen, Executive Vice President of the Center for World Thanksgiving. Registrations are being received and tabulated by Mary Ellen Denio, representing the Interfaith Forum of Rochester, who will also manage the registration process at the beginning of the conference. Stan Bratton, of the newly-formed Network of Religious Communities in Buffalo, will coordinate the program involving representatives of the wide range of faith communities.

Young Adults Interfaith Movement

In an effort to facilitate the participation of young adults (18-35 years old) from member organizations, this will be the second year in which NAIN offers scholarships that cover part of the cost of travel and lodging. In addition to the scholarships, for which applications are required, the Executive Committee has voted to waive the conference registration fee for one young adult from each member organization. There will be special activities held as part of the young adult program, chaired by Will Baker of the International Association for Religious Freedom, and assisted by Christy Lohr, who works with the World Council of Churches. We want to strongly encourage all member organizations to consider sending at least one young adult to Chautauqua. Those who attended NAINConnect98 in Edmonton had high praise for the experience. (Young Adult Application materials have been sent to member organizations. If you need additional information, contact Will Baker, email: wb2000@aol.com)

NAIN has also worked during the past year in cooperation with Dr. Ross Mackenzie, Director of the Department of Religion at the Chautauqua Institution, to help create a multifaith approach within the final week of the Institution's summer program. This week runs from August 22-29, and will feature lectures each day, Monday through Friday, by scholars representing five historic religious traditions.

These presenters include Blu Greenberg (Jewish), Heng Sure (Buddhist), Mohammed Arkoun (Muslim), Anantanand Rambachan (Hindu), and Diana Eck (Christian). A week-long seminar will be offered by Peter Laurence, with guest speakers Ralph Singh, Kay Lindahl, Bruce Gregersen, Elizabeth Espersen, and Gard Jameson. Registration for this week preceding NAINConnect99 is through the Chautauqua Institution. The program for the week includes a concert by the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra, an evening of classic jazz with Cleo Laine and John Dankworth, morning services by Calvin O. Butts, III, and an evening with Bill Cosby.

If you're interested in attending this pre-conference, contact the Chautauqua Institution Customer Service office at (716) 357-6250, or write to them at Chautauqua, NY 14722. The pre-conference combined with NAINConnect99 are an exceptional opportunity for the interfaith movement at a major religious institute, so we look forward to seeing you at Chautauqua in August.

DURING THIS THRESHOLD TO A NEW MILLENNIUM, many kinds of activities are planned by interfaith organizations. On the international scene, the big news in the interfaith world is the major events held by the large international organizations. All of these are taking place with a concerned eye on critical issues such as ethnic and religious conflict, refugees, hunger and drought, weather-related disasters, and civil uprest.

While the NAIN Conference gives us a chance to address these concerns as networking members, readers may also wish to participate in or at least learn more about the several other large, international interfaith conferences.

IARF is a world community of religious organizations that includes 83 member groups and individuals in 25 countries, speaking more than 20 languages and representing all major faith traditions from every continent. One of the goals of IARF is to facilitate open and respectful interfaith dialogue and to provide programming and activities promoting a broader view of liberal religious tolerance and understanding, especially in areas of conflict. Organized in 1900, IARF is the world's oldest global interfaith organization.

The theme of IARF's Triennial Congress is "Creating an Earth Community: A Religious Imperative." It will be held at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, July 29-Aug.3, 1999. The Congresses, held every three years, include devotions in different religious traditions,

theme speakers, study groups, small group dialogues, workshops, cultural events and time for relaxation and visiting.

Preceeding the IARF conference will be a pre-conference supported by the International Interfaith Centre and IARF on The Healing of the Nations: Religious Communities Contributing to Peace

and Wholeness, at the Sorrento Retreat Centre in British Columbia. Several pre- and post-conference tours are also available.

For registration or other information about IARF, contact (in the US) Rev. Doris Hunter, 1-617 876-3059. Website: <<http://iarf-religiousfreedom.net>> or Robert Traer, email: robert.traer@cwix.com In Canada, call 1-604-822-1050.

In 1893, during the Columbian Exposition in Chicago, the World's Parliament of Religions gave birth to organized inter-religious encounter and marked the beginning of dialogue between the spiritual traditions of the East and West.

In 1993, the Parliament was reborn in Chicago though the Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions, with 8000 people from all over the world coming together to celebrate diversity and harmony and to explore religious and spiritual responses to the critical issues which confront us all. In 1999, this powerful movement will take a dramatic step forward, convening in Cape Town, South Africa, December 1-8.

Using the headline: A New Day Dawning: Spiritual Yearnings and Sacred Possibilities, the themes of the Parliament workshops, seminars, keynote speeches and plenary programs will include: Encountering Religion and Spirituality; Making Connections; Calling for Creative Engagement; Offering Gifts of Service; and Embracing South Africa.

A new document based on the Declaration "Toward a Global Ethic" has been drafted and is being reviewed for presentation at the Parliament. Titled "A Call to Our Guiding Institutions," this document is designed to explore the major issues and ethical responses to them with the institutions most able to address them: Religion, Governance, the Marketplace, Education, and Media. At the same time, the Call will offer a challenge to these institutions based on the principles identified in the 1993 Parliament's Declaration. Some programs at the Capetown Parliament will explore ways of extending the Call to participants in these institutions and facilitating appropriate responses and responsibilities.

In addition, there will be many opportunities for cultural, artistic, interpersonal and religious experiences. The CPWR is offering group and family registration rates to those anticipating attendance at the next Parliament. Its limited capacity is filling up quickly. For information, contact CPWR at 312-629-2990; the web-site also has registration information: www.cpwr.org

WCRP is the largest world-wide coalition of representatives of religious communities. Together, these religious communities consist of well over three-quarters of the world's population. In WCRP, religious representatives, while respectful of their differences in belief, work together to take common actions to address critical problems in areas such as conflict resolution, human rights, and development. WCRP operates many of its peace-promoting initiatives in cooperation with the UN and other major agencies, as well as with the assistance of its chapters in 32 countries.

Examples of recent actions for peace include:

assisting in the development of an inter-religious Council in Bosnia-Herzegovina;

	working with religious leaders in Kosovo to establish principles and mechanisms for common living;
	establishment of a task force of UN and relief agencies to clarify the ethical and legal bases for humanitarian assistance in situations of conflict.

WCRP will convene its Seventh World Assembly November 25-29,1999, in Amman, Jordan. This multi-religious summit is called to help the major religions and spiritual traditions of the world address together the crises and conflicts confronting humanity at the beginning of the millennium. Approximately 650 religious leaders, as well as their civil counterparts will provide focus and direction to multi-religious collaborative initiatives on critical issues.

The theme is: Action for Common Living: The Role of Religions in the Next Millennium. Conference participation is by invitation, but for more information about WCRP's North American chapters, call 212-687-2163.

Thanksgiving and Forgiveness

More than 80 representatives of the world's religions, participants in the four-day Thanksgiving World Assembly, gathered in Dallas March 12 - March 15 to promote tolerance and forgiveness within their faiths, and promising to encourage the faithful to adopt an attitude of forgiveness that might help diffuse inter-religious tension. The assembly of world religious leaders, who came from as far as India, Jerusalem and Thailand, was organized by The ThanksGiving Foundation, a Dallas organization founded 35 years ago to promote the giving of thanks among religions and cultures.

The religions represented included Baha'i, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Judaism, Unitarian Universalism, Sikhism, American Indians, and other indigenous peoples. The international delegates included Archbishop George Carey, leader of Anglican and Episcopal communities; Cardinal Francis Arinze, president of the Vatican Office of Inter-religious Dialogue and a potential papal successor; Venerable Achok Rinpoche, a representative of the Dalai Lama; Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz, a world renowned Talmudic scholar; K.L. Seshagiri Rao, editor in chief of the Encyclopedia of Hinduism; and Muzammil Siddiqi, president of the Islamic Society of North America.

Although some discussions produced tension--sometimes within the same faith--delegates marveled at the consensus they were able to reach on how to strive for religious harmony and mutual understanding. Throughout the conference, the delegates grappled in small groups with the concept of forgiveness by discussing how thanking God for one's graces could engender a kinder, gentler view of others.

ThanksGiving Square will now sift through the hundreds of documents produced by those discussions in an effort to draft a statement that the organizers will present to UNESCO in November. It will suggest actions and a framework through which the world's religions can work more closely together.

The assembly inspired many delegates to plan to apply the concept of thanksgiving in their own communities. A Sikh from Ohio said he intends to begin work immediately to create an interfaith social services network and a Hindu from India said he hopes to build a ThanksGiving Square in his homeland. Multifaith representatives from strife-torn Ireland announced during the assembly they plan to break ground next year on a $2.5 million ThanksGiving Square in Belfast-- a place where people of all faiths can gather to be reconciled in the common denominator of nearly every religion--thanksgiving. (Submitted by Alan Van Zelfden)

Forty-three students from parochial, private and public high schools in Richmond and surrounding counties were recognized for exhibiting the true spirit of Brotherhood/Sisterhood in their schools as well as in their communities. Sponsored by the Interfaith Council of Greater Richmond, Virginia, nearly four hundred people attended the ceremony at which the honorees received a Certificate of Appreciation.

The purpose of this program is first of all to recognize students for qualities of understanding and kindness toward fellow students who are different from themselves, especially toward newcomers by reaching out and making them feel welcome. They are also commended for being good roll models in helping others overcome prejudice and unjust discrimination by acting as the voice of reason and tolerance in potentially confrontational situations. Finally they are honored for demonstrating overall excellence in character, values and leadership.

Organized in 1929, the Interfaith Council has grown to include every religious denomination in the area. Currently, 21 denominations and 121 religious organizations are represented on the Council. Through this program of student awards, the Interfaith Council of Greater Richmond hopes to emphasize its continual concern for mutual respect and greater understanding between members of different faith traditions and ethnic communities in our area. Another purpose of the ICGR is interpreting "the needs of the Greater Richmond community to representative groups to coordinate efforts to eliminate crime, poverty and disease." (Submitted by Dr. John P. Bruckner)

GUEST EDITORIAL

Building A Movement--Forging a New Congregationby Ralph Singh (NAIN Board Secretary) Thinking back over the past 11 years since the first NAIN Connect in Wichita, one has to wonder where we've been, where are we now, and where we can go. And, as with any enterprise, the question remains are we making a difference? We look around at domestic hate groups, a retrenchment of fundamentalism, and teen violence, and are then literally bombarded with Kosovo.

I've had the pleasure of watching the development of the "interfaith" movement from a special vantage point: both from within NAIN and from my own association with Gobind Sadan, Baba Virsa Singh ji's agriculturally-supported, self-sufficient model of interfaith community based in India. There, the light of Truth continues to illumine the darkness and break down barriers to peace.

As a Sikh under the tutelage of Babaji, I have learned to see all people as children of One God, and to love and rejoice in the teachings of all those who have come from that Ultimate Truth. The Sikh scripture, Guru Granth Sahib and Guru Gobind Singh ji's Jaap Sahib, speak of 1 human race and teach love and respect for all scriptures.

Prior to NAIN, I had spent 20 years of my life, since college, learning to practice these teachings & helping to develop a global community in which people from all walks of life learn to work together to alleviate poverty and hatred and celebrate God according to each tradition. In Gobind Sadan, it is common to gather beneath the life-size image of Jesus and celebrate Christmas, Guru Gobind Singh ji's birthday, Ramadan, and Hannukah. The clergy and devotees from each tradition join in singing praises of each other's "Prophets," and people from all traditions sit around the sacred fires in meditation or reciting hymns of Praise.

So, to me, NAIN is an extension of my family. With each "Connect" I not only look forward to sharing with old friends, but am equally excited about the prospect of meeting the wonderful new people God continually brings into my life.

To those who would question whether we are just "a voice crying in the wilderness," let me simply say that if we share the love of God then the voice that comes through is so powerful that it will overcome even the greatest obstacles.

I recently returned from participating in a monumental event in India, which confirmed that, in the midst of decades--if not centuries--of strife, India is now on a path to overcoming religious violence: Leaders of major Hindu fundamentalist groups, who have been associated with the destruction of mosques and churches in their attempt to "purify" India, have now publicly renounced their violence and pledged to bring peace and justice among those they had previously persecuted.

This extraordinary event means a major shift for India. These leaders have declared that religious divisiveness will no longer be the cornerstone of national politics. It should also allay the fears of Muslims whose historic Mosques were threatened the Babri Masjid was torn down on the birth place of Lord Rama, sparking national riots and of the Christians who have been troubled by recent Church burnings and attacks on missionaries.

Under the influence of His Holiness Baba Virsa Singh ji, these leaders determined that the real way to bring peace and justice to India was not to rid it of so-called "foreign elements," but to respect and support all religions. They said they had finally learned from Babaji the difference between sectarian religion and true justice, and assured those present that they had renounced hatred and would become messengers of peace.

A dramatic change such as this one is not unusual at Gobind Sadan, where, for over 30 years, Babaji has been preaching and demonstrating that mutual understanding is the only path to peace. On March 29th, in Gobind Sadan, the 7 fundamentalist leaders also publicly declared their commitment by becoming Khalsa (protectors of the persecuted) in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib (Sikh holy scripture) and Baba Virsa Singh. In his powerful address, one leader pledged to the thousands gathered and to the national media that he and his followers would become the protectors of the minorities they had previously persecuted.

To me this exemplifies the present and future of the North American Interfaith Network: that the "interfaith movement" reflects a "Power" beyond each of us, but which works through all of us. And as It moves, the peace we all work and pray for comes closer to being a reality.

"From Consumers to Citizens: Higher Education and Religion on the New Commons." The Association for Religion and Intellectual Life is hosting its 1999 Consultation June 13 - June 16 at Columbia University and Union Seminary. For registration information, contact ARIL at 914-235-1439

Mapping Adult Faith Journeys: An Interfaith Working Conference, Monday June 28 - July 1, 1999, in Seattle, WA. To explore Faith Development, Psycho-social Development, Personality, and practical applications. Contact: Adult Faith Resources, 9709 Rich Rd., Minneapolis, MN 55437-2025. (612) 835-1579

"Creating an Earth Community: A Religious Imperative." The Triennial Congress of the International Association for Religious Freedom, at the University of British Columbia

in Vancouver. July 29-Aug.3 (See details above.)

NAINConnect99, conference at Chautauqua Institution, New York. August 29 - Sept. 1: See details above.

The Pontifical Council for Inter-religious Dialogue has announced that in October 1999, an inter-religious assembly will be held in Rome on the theme "On the Threshold of the New Millennium: Collaboration Among Diverse Religions." (No further information available at press-time.)

Assembly of the World Conference on Religion and Peace, in Amman, Jordan (by invitation). Late November 1999. See details above.

The Parliament of the World's Religions in Capetown, South Africa. December 1-8, 1999. See details and contacts above.

The Interfaith Digest

News, Organizations, Program Ideas, and Resources

Compiled by Joel Beversluis

Seeking Unity in the Community of Religions

Like Pope John Paul, who declared unity among the religious community as one of his goals for the next millennium, many of us and many of the initiatives and organizations described below are also seeking unity. What's most striking is that there are so many ways to seek it and to find it.

IFC Celebrates 20 Years of Community Building

The InterFaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington, and its Executive Director, Clark Lobenstine, a long-time member and supporter of NAIN, are celebrating IFC's 20th anniversary with an Interfaith Thanksgiving Service and Dinner, May 16, 1999. The organization's newsletter, the "Interfaith Connector," confirms the assessment by the Washington Post, that IFC is recognized as one of the most dynamic and diverse inter-religious coalitions in the United States." A few of the highlights include:

At IFC's Spring Public Dialogue, "more than 170 high school youth and adults shared in an incredible evening about how to apply core values of our faiths to the challenges of the Millennium. . ." At an earlier meeting of 70 high school youth from nine faith traditions, they created and took this pledge: "We pledge to act from our core values, to promote harmony among all religious traditions, and to be Champions of the Millennium--working to create a better World."

"`Races faithfully working together for justice' was the theme of the Dr. Martin Luther King Interfaith Service. Some 1500 people gave a standing ovation to the interfaith children's choir of 150 voices which performed at the Interfaith Service on Sunday, January 17th at Shiloh Baptist Church. . . Rev. [Jim] Wallis preached, noting that `We must speak the language of today's youth, and speak [about] meaning and connectedness."

The 17th edition of IFC's Emergency Directory, released this past February, includes over 400 listings of organizations offering services to the hungry and homeless in the Washington metropolitan area.

In November 1998, IFC held its 19th Annual Interfaith Concert at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

SOUNDS of HARMONY CONCERTS

Building on the tradition first established at the InterFaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington and replicated by the Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions, other interfaith organizations are discovering the benefits and joy of holding interfaith concerts.

Festival of the Family and Sounds of Harmony"

Gard Jameson, NAIN Treasurer, submitted this report:

"Inspired by our friends of Canada and their Festival of the Family events held in both Toronto and Edmonton over the past few years, the <B>Interfaith Council of Southern Nevada<D> will hold its first Global Festival of the Family on Memorial Day, May 31st. This event will be held in conjunction with a concert, Sounds of Harmony (inspired by the Metropolitan Initiative of Chicago). The concert will showcase the choirs and musical groups of many faith communities

in Southern Nevada. The Global Festival of the Family will have a variety of workshops dealing with family issues, providing participants with practical, relationship-building skills. There will also be entertainment for children, musicians, magicians and story-tellers. Our interfaith council anticipates an event that will contribute to an appreciation of family values, from the global to community to nuclear and inner family perspectives."

"Harmony at the Dawn of a New Millennium"

John-Brian Paprock, Coordinator of the Madison Area Interfaith Network, reports that its "Third Annual Sacred Sounds Concert was a testament to interfaith cooperation, education and service, where no one's faith was diminished. To the contrary, from various comments, everyone was uplifted by the experience. One person even went so far as to say that only the Holy Spirit could have allowed such a wonderful evening with such diversity." This year's concert featured both traditional and contemporary music. Their count was that over 150 people attended the concert from at least 15 different faith traditions.

Interfaith Prayer Service with the Pope

The biggest interfaith news in the USA at the end of January 1999 came out of St. Louis, where 95 interfaith representatives participated in a service with Pope John Paul II. Ninety year-old Rabbi Robert Jacobs, known as "Mr. Interfaith St. Louis" for his 70 years of dialogue with members of other faiths, was invited to read from the Book of Isaiah at the prayer service. Jacobs is quoted as saying, "There has never been a pope like him. Throughout his 20-year papacy he has been a close friend of many Jews throughout the world."

Bishop Ann Sherer of the United Methodist Church said that John Paul's willingness to meet with representatives of other faiths shows that "God is moving among us." Rev. Vincent Heirer, director of the Office for Ecumenical and Inter-religious Affairs for the Archdiocese of St. Louis, noted that John Paul has declared unity among the religious community one of his goals for the next millennium. (From an Associated Press article by Connie Farrow)

Just Politics Interfaith Briefing

The 29th Annual Interfaith Public Policy Briefing of the Interfaith Public Policy Community in Washington, DC, was held this year on April 25-28. The Briefing is an educational project of Washington's advocacy coalition of national faith-based public policy agencies and organizations. With a three-decade legacy of witnessing for justice and peace, the partner agencies recognize the power in bringing religious, political and academic leaders to a common table for the sake of justice-empowering advocates to engage one another and top decision-makers.

Interfaith Impact for Justice and Peace sponsored this event for many years. In the last three years, the partners have continued to support this unique educational project's growth. Partners in 1999 include more than 25 non-governmental organizations and religious agencies. Plenary sessions and over 30 workshops developed aspects of the theme: Human Rights and Economic Justice in Public Policy, and focused on legislative issues, advocacy training, media and communications. For more information, contact 202-543-2800 or www.voicesforjustice.org

REPORTS FROM LOS ANGELES

The World Interfaith Network of Unity-and-Diversity World Council held its seventh Interfaith Celebration in the 1998-99 series of Monthly events at various religious and cultural centers in greater Los Angeles. The theme for the March Celebration, held at the Malibu Jewish Center during the Season for Nonviolence, was "Learning to live together on planet earth in a nonviolent and compassionate manner."

"For the New Millennium"

An April 18 gathering, "Uniting Faith & Environment," was sponsored by the United Religions Initiative of Los Angeles, coordinated in part by NAIN Board member Kay Lindahl, and hosted by the Soka Gakkai International (Buddhist) Friendship Center. The program focused on Earth Day, Ecology, and the Human Community.

YOUNG INTERFAITH ORGANIZATIONS

Ann Arbor, Michigan, reports: "The Interfaith Round Table of Washtenaw County is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Just this year we became affiliated with the Detroit Interfaith Round Table which has now changed its name to the National Conference for Community and Justice. Our mission is to "build bridges of understanding and friendship and to be able to respond to local concerns."

We have been around for four years. We are trying to add to our current programs monthly interfaith dialogue programs, an annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Celebration, a youth diversity retreat, and other local efforts to stimulate interfaith dialogue and cooperation. We also have a small home page at http://community.mlive.com/cc/roundtable and our mailing address is the Interfaith Round Table of Washtenaw County, P.O. Box 3653, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-3653." Submitted by George Lambrides (gbrides@umich.edu)

Interfaith Council of New York Reports:"Beginning as a fledgling grass-roots group that sprung into existence from the inspiration of the World Parliament of Religions in 1993, we have now grown into a cohesive body of dedicated volunteers committed to working to mobilize the resources and insights of New York's religious and spiritual communities in response to vital issues and problems that beset the Greater New York area. Co-chairs are Joan Kirby (still also the executive director of the Temple of Understanding) and Andrew Vidich." The Mission Statement includes the intention to support, encourage and create forums and programs for interfaith dialogue in the New York community. As an example of its support, the Council's newsletter includes reports on the varied work of other New York-based interfaith organizations both local and international such as the World Conference on Religion and Peace, Temple of Understanding, and Partnership of Faith.

BEYOND NORTH AMERICA: 50-Year Anniversary

Singapore's Inter-religious Organization was established in 1949. Jamshed Fozdar reports that, to commemorate its 50th, a set of three very attractive postage stamps was released on 15 January, 1999. The design shows the Organization's logo, its motto "Unity in Diversity," and the membership of its nine constituent religions. The IRO conducts regular interfaith seminars and public talks to increase the public's knowledge of various religious observances, as well as participating in important civic events with prayers and blessing ceremonies. To help strengthen community bonding, IRO also encourages its constituent religions to participate in organ donation campaigns and offer services such as rehabilitation programs for drug addicts. Contact: Jamshed Fozdar at Peace Mansion #24-01, 1 Sophia Rd., SINGAPORE 228149

Responding to Conflicts and Disasters

As many of us read or heard in media sound-bites, the interfaith delegation to Kosovo, led by the Rev. Jesse Jackson of USA political fame and the Rev. Dr. Joan Campbell of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA (a member of NAIN), included Orthodox Christian leaders as well as Muslim and Jewish leaders. While we applaud the fact that three USA prisoners were released, there were other significant goals as well.

The Rev. Jackson noted that "this is a pilgrimage of faith, not of politics. We go to Belgrade as religious leaders who are concerned about all who suffer in that region." Dr. Campbell said that "We plan to meet with religious leaders there, with whom we have long ties. The breadth of our delegation reveals our deep concern as people of faith for the captured soldiers and for refugees and victims of violence on all sides."

At the same time, we can't be naive about the difficulties, including religious ones. For instance, Yugoslavia's Methodist Church issued a statement condemning NATO's military action based on its perception that the NATO bombing campaign is to blame for the mass exodus of Kosovars to neighboring countries.

Are those who make statements on either side of claims such as this one--seen not so much as proponents of religious ethics and truth, but rather as mouthpieces for political pressures? How can a multi-faith delegation help ascertain and speak the truth to power? Can it avoid politics?

The Community of Religions Prays Together

One response to the conflict in Kosovo and Serbia, duplicated in many communities, is an Interfaith Prayer for Peace. For example, in Grand Rapids, representatives of seven faith groups gathered in front of the City Hall and Federal Building to offer prayers or songs in their own traditions. The Rev. David Baak, Director of the Grand Rapids Area Center for Ecumenism and an organizer along with Rabbi Albert Lewis, invited everyone "to join in as people who truly respect each other, across all lines of distinction, and who feel drawn to model this for our community."

The closing prayer, written by Serbian Orthodox bishops for the Holy Week liturgy, reminded both sides that "the way of non-violence and cooperation is the only way blessed by God in agreement with human and divine moral law and experience." This prayer was "for all those who commit injustice against their neighbors, whether by causing sorrow to orphans or spilling innocent blood or by returning hatred for hatred, that God will grant them repentence, enlighten their minds and hearts and illumine their souls with the light of love, even toward their enemies."

72 HOURS: An Interfaith Peace-Building Project

People of faith from around the world are invited to participate in an unprecedented act of inter-religious global cooperation--72 hours of interfaith peace-building. From December 31, 1999 to January 2, 2000 (Friday through Sunday), people of faith will mobilize their communities for peace-building.

Sponsored by the <B>United Religions Initiative, many religious leaders have already made commitments to specific action, including:

Bishop Thomas Gumbleton (Roman Catholic), Swami Satchidananda (Hindu), His Holiness the Dalai Lama (Tibetan Buddhist), Sister Jayanti (Brahma Kumaris), Dr. A.K. Merchant (the Baha'is), Sister Joan Kirby (Temple of Understanding), Dr. Seyyed Hossein Nasr (Muslim scholar), Dr. Han Wenzao (President, Chinese Christian Council), Dr. Wade Aubry (Physician). Supporters also include Dr. Zaki Badawi, Jim Kenney, Dr. Huston Smith, His Beatitude Mesrob II, Rohinton Rivetna, Rabbi Zalman Schacter-Shalomi, Dr. Mohinder Singh, and many others.

All religious, interfaith and civic organizations as well as individuals are invited to commit to<197>and engage your community in--one or more of these actions: Peace Vigils; Prayer/meditation for Spiritual Neighbors; Cooperative Local Actions; Calls to Political Leaders; and Solidarity in Conflict Zones.

For more information, contact the United Religions Initiative: tel. 415-561-2300 / 72hours@united-religions.org; web site: www.united-religions.org

Coexistence Conferences and Publications

The Abraham Fund, whose primary work has been in Israel-Palestine, is broadening its support of coexistence studies, conflict resolution, and mediation on campuses and around the world by sponsoring a series of coexistence conferences: at Brandeis University in March 1998; at City University in November 1998; at the American University Campus in Washington, DC in February 1999; in Belfast and Dublin, Ireland with the State of the World Forum in May 1999; and at the University of Haifa in November 1999. For more information, contact them at 1-800-301-FUND, 212-30309421, or email: Abrahamfun@aol.com

Award Given to NAIN Board Member

As an example of the value of coexistence and conflict resolution on campuses, the "Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel and Fannie Lou Hamer Award for Spirituality and Social Justice" was presented by Drew University, Madison, NJ, to Paul Dodenhoff. He was given the award for his commitment to interfaith dialogue at Drew and his service as chair of the Religious Life Council, the interfaith organization on campus, for two years.

In that capacity, Paul was instrumental in bringing together two religious organizations that were engaged in a serious dispute that had become a campus-wide topic of often heated discussion. Through a series of consultations open to the entire student body and faculty, the two organizations were able to amicably resolve their dispute and to continue their conversation. In the process, the fruits of honest interfaith dialogue were demonstrated to all.

Paul serves as representative to NAIN from the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States, and is currently the NAIN Membership Chair for the United States. He lives in Glen

Rock, NJ with his wife Lisa and children, and is in the Doctoral program in American Religious History at Drew University, specializing in the study of New Religious Movements.

World Tibet Day

For the second year, World Tibet Day will be held at the time of the birthday celebration of H. H. the Dalai Lama to create more awareness of religious freedom issues in Tibet and everywhere else that religious traditions are oppressed. Places of worship and other organizations are encouraged to participate with meaningful activities on or around July 9, and to record their participation on the web site. For more information, call Brahma Das at 561-388-0699 or see the web site: www.worldtibetday.com

Faith-based Disaster Relief Efforts

The Disaster News Network, sponsored by Church World Service, highlights and helps coordinate disaster needs and relief efforts, as well as opportunities for volunteering and donations. The site, www.disasternews.net , includes several interfaith disaster response organizations with websites. Since this site's sponsor is a Christian interdenominational (ecumenical) organization, this listing of local organizations is only a small percentage of the actual number of religious and interfaith disaster response organizations throughout North America and the world. But Church World Service, like many other Christian ecumenical organizations, is expanding its scope to include other faiths and interfaith work. The interfaith centers listed are:

	Albany United Methodist Flood Relief Center--a disaster response interfaith organization in Albany, GA.
	Deluge Response Interfaith, Sonoma County, CA
	Florida Interfaith Networking in Disaster
	North Carolina Interfaith Disaster Response
	Valley Interfaith Coalition to Recovery, Grand Forks, ND

"From Prison to Community: The Ninety-five people from 7 religious traditions met to discuss their work on behalf of victims of crime, the imprisoned, and related social issues at a conference held in March 1998. The consensus was that there is a desperate need for all religious communities to become involved in prison and community issues. A second conference, held April 29 - May 1,1999, involved participants in developing strategies for religious and interreligious action on behalf of prisoners and their families. The conferences have been sponsored by the Institute for World Spirituality, Chicago Theological Seminary, The Divinity School at the University of Chicago, and Project Return (New Orleans). Contact:
773-752-5757, ext. 275, or email: kairos@worldspirit.org

Walter Cronkite Faith and Freedom Award.  At a ceremony and press conference in Manhattan, Walter Cronkite and The Interfaith Alliance/Foundation presented Reverend Chriss H. Doss and Ms. Donna Red Wing with the first annual Walter Cronkite Faith and Freedom Award.

Established in 1998, the award honors individual whose courageous actions have embodied the values of civility, tolerance, diversity, and cooperation in the advancement of public dialogue and policy on traditionally controversial and divisive issues. Reverend Chriss H. Doss is Director of the Center for the Study of Law and the Church at the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama. Ms. Donna Red Wing is National Field Director of the Human Rights Campaign. Walter Cronkite's statement included the following:

"Today we honor two outstanding Americans who challenged the religious right's attempts to restrict religious freedom under the banner of religion by manipulating and narrowly defining the principles of Christianity. We should never lose sight of the fact that faith and freedom are precious liberties that must be vigorously protected and defended in a manner that strengthens not undermines the integral role of faith in the life of our nation.

Rev. Welton Gaddy, executive director of The Interfaith Alliance/Foundation, noted that "As the images of ethnic-cleansing and religious hatreds emerge from the Balkans, people of faith and goodwill cannot ignore the tragic consequences of inaction and silence."

Founded in 1994, The Interfaith Alliance (TIA) has grown into a national grassroots organization of people of faith and goodwill drawn from over 50 faith traditions dedicated to promoting mutual respect, cooperation and civility in the life of our nation. From these principles, TIA challenges those who manipulate religion to promote divisive and exclusionary political agendas. With a membership of 80,000, a Religious Leaders Network in 50 states, a cyber network of 10,000 activists, and local clergy-led Alliances in 38 states, The Interfaith Alliance is encouraging the active involvement of people of faith and goodwill in civic life.

For more information, contact: Jonathan Zucker, tel. 202.639.6370 The Interfaith Alliance, 1012 14th Street, NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC 20005

Stop The Hate: Interfaith Vigils Against Hate Violence

The Interfaith Alliance and the Fellowship of Reconciliation, with its multi-faith membership of more than 20,000 in North America, are organizing a national campaign for healing in the midst of hate violence. The vigils, scheduled for October 7, 1999, are a call for people of faith to stand together against violence in its many forms.

In his announcement about "hate-crimes" legislation, President Clinton noted that "These crimes cut across all racial, religious, ethnic, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic lines. And the seeds of hatred are sown through every medium, including the Internet. In fact, the Internet contains more than 1,400 sites that promote racism, violence, hate music, or neo-Nazism, or that are anti-Semitic, anti-gay, anti-Catholic, or anti-Muslim. . . . As a faith leader, you play a unique role in the lives not only of the followers of your faith but of the members of our larger community. I ask you to use your special place to help guide all Americans in understanding their own hearts and actions as well as in learning what they can do to bring communities together."

For more information contact C. Welton Gaddy at TIA: 202-639-6370 or FOR at 914-358-4601.

Christian Ecumenical Councils Expanding to Include Interfaith Roles

Network Of Religious Communities

Established in Western New York and the Niagara Peninsula of Ontario, this new Network is an example of the expanding scope of the ecumenical Councils in North America. In this case, the Buffalo Area Council of Churches and the Buffalo Area Metropolitan Ministries are merging into this new, inter-religious organization.

The Network, whose members are helping to host NAINConnect99 at Chautauqua, is "a forum providing opportunities for cooperative ventures, the strengthening of our religious communities, and the betterment of the community as a whole." The Mission Statement notes that "Because our humanity is deeper than our divisions, we: Promote dialogue; facilitate the sharing of spiritual acitivities and resources; and work for justice and peace." Its purposes include fostering "cooperation within and between the faith communities to which the members belong."

Ecumenical & Inter-religious Staff Conference

Another indication of the increased scope of Christian ecumenical organizations is that one of the main themes of the forthcoming conference of the National Association of Ecumenical and Interreligious Staff (NAEIS) is Interfaith Relations. The organization changed its name several years ago to include "Interfaith Staff," in recognition of the evolving roles of the Christian ecumenical movement.

Dr. Jay Rock, whom many of us know as an Interfaith Relations Director at the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA, is the incoming President of NAEIS. Other NAIN participants are members of NAEIS as well, and others have attended in previous years. This year, conference organizers have invited Joel Beversluis, NAINews Editor, to speak about the interfaith movement. The Conference will be held in Columbus, Ohio, July 6-11.

Contact: Wayne Bryan at 803-786-7115 or via email: wayne.bryan@ecunet.org

Media and Publications

"Religion and Ethics Newsweekly"

Hosted by former NBC newsman Bob Abernathy and funded by the Lilly Endowment, the television program "Religion and Ethics Newsweekly" is now halfway through its second year. The program has met with a great response, apparently meeting a wide-spread demand. It is now carried on 217 PBS stations, with an estimated 600,000 viewers each week.

R&EN Board member Phyllis Tickle, who is also an author on religion in America and a much-respected religion writer for "Publishers Weekly," notes that at a recent, "exhilarating" four-hour Board meeting, "what emerged was a conviction that any conversation about living as a pluralist society required two things. First and foremost, there must be broad, comfortable familarity with the deeply-held beliefs and practices of each faith within the body politic. Second, there must be a clear theology of pluralism built into the theologies of each distinct tradition as well as into the theology of the public square. A weekly television program can do much to encourage and evoke" these objectives.

If you can, watch the program and promote it to others in your community! NAIN members are in the same game, and "Religion and Ethics Newsweekly" has a large audience, an excellent Board with vision, and the funding to do its part of our common work. (from Publishers Weekly's Religion Marketplace," Vol.2, No.2)

THRESHOLD 2000: Critical Issues and Spiritual Values for a Global Age

A new edition was just published of the book first written by Gerald Barney and staff of the Millennium Institute for the Parliament of the World's Religions in 1993. In addition to the summary of projections about critical global issues and the challenges to religious and spiritual and spiritual leaders--What shall we do?-- this edition includes new introductions, and an appendix on World Plans for the Millennium. Part Two includes drafts of "A Call to Our Guiding Institutions," for use at the 1999 Parliament, "The Earth Charter," and other documents identifying spiritual values from a multi-faith perspective. The authors help us face a profound choice: Will we continue on the path of present beliefs and policies to an increasingly crowded, polluted and vulnerable world, or will we take the path to a more sustainable, healthy, and secure global community?

The book is US$13.95, pb., available from CoNexus Press; call toll-free 1-877-784-7779

Journal of Interfaith Dialogue

Howard Larson has announced the first Call for Papers for the new Journal of Interfaith Dialogue, which he will edit. The Call is extended to all those who are engaged in the study of open religious exchange within academic disciplines and settings and/or who are engaged in the activities of interfaith dialogue with people outside their own proclaimed faith. For more information about submissions, contact Howard B. Larson, Managing Editor, The Journal of Interfaith Dialogue, 678 North Eagle Lane, Palatine, IL 60067 /tel. (630)325-0717

World Faiths Encounter

The journal "World Faiths Encounter" is well-edited and well-produced by the World Congress of Faiths. While some articles are based on experience and scholarship in the UK and Europe, the applications are universal. Among its virtues is the substantial review section of books related to the study of religions and the interfaith movements. Subscriptions are air-mailed to individuals and libraries in North America at US$30 for individuals and $40 for institutions. Subscriptions checks are payable to World Congress of Faiths, at 2 Market St., Oxford, OX1 3EF, UK / tel. 0 1865 202751

The World Religions Curriculum

A draft version of a new curriculum is being piloted by the Council for Global Education, based in Washington, DC. This international, non profit educational institution is dedicated to promoting the development of the whole child based on four key building blocks: Universal Values, Global Understanding, Excellence, and Service.

The World Religions Curriculum tries to establish a middle ground--between extreme or exclusivist views and a vague blurring of differences--to uncover and explore both the agreements and differences among religions. The study begins with introductions to the nomenclature about religions, basic concepts, founders and leaders, sacred texts, places of worship, and symbols. This well-illustrated book (with hundreds of line drawings) then provide more details on world religions, followed by time-lines, calendars, maps, readings, summary charts, and a glossary. Teachers' reference and resource materials are also provided, and the book is suitable for teaching about religions in public schools. While the presentation suggests elementary or middle-school classrooms, the clear and well-organized contents provide a useful outline for older students as well.

200+ pp, 8-1/2 x 11", $75. For more information, contact The Council at (202) 496-9780, fax: 202 496-9781, or check its web site: www.globalclassroom.com

Peter's Path

This new quarterly journal on parenting and spirituality is committed to addressing the total needs of our children including mind, body, emotions, and spirit. By "spirituality," Editor Judith Costello means "the personal search for a sense of connection to the earth, the universe and all life. It is a quest for meaning, magic and mystery in a world that has become too logical and too meaningless."

Articles range from "Teaching Stories from World Religions" to "The Basics of Emotional and Spiritual Intelligence," and a long article on the United Religions Initiative. US$16/year. Contact: Peter's Path, PO Box 5433, St. Augustine, FL 32085.

 Web Sites

Ontario Consultants on Religious Practice

This site, provided by webmaster Bruce Robinson and volunteers, provides hundreds of essays, links, and sources for information on religious themes, hot topics, the interfaith movement, tolerance, understanding, and much more. The site claims to be receiving 1.5 million hits per week, and is consistently listed among the top religious web sites. In their words: *"Some Internet sites present their own faith in glowing but often inaccurate terms; other sites attack religions with hatred and misinformation. We do neither. We describe dozens of faith groups as accurately as we can. Some faith groups explain their own beliefs about abortion, physician assisted suicide, capital punishment, etc. We don't. We explain all sides. Some denominations use the Bible as a scientific text and teach creation science. Evolution has been accepted and integrated into other faiths. We do not favor one belief; we explain both."Visit them at: www.religioustolerance.org/

Lightbook Publishing

Hosted by James T. Cloud, Lightbook is an interfaith/multifaith publisher of sacred books and information on the religions of the world. Cloud has recently published the first CD-ROM of the Sacred Books Library, an interactive text data-base of scriptures from the world's religions, searchable and organized by Folio Views.

This very useful CD is now for sale from this site, and the site includes samples from the Sacred Books Library for those wishing to try it out. The site also provides information and links about interfaith marriages, as well as other links and information such as the Interfaith Webring, United Communities of Spirit, and the Conference of Religions in Cleveland, Ohio.  www.lightbook.com

Future of Religion On-line Forum

Rev. John-Brian Paprock of Madison Area Interfaith Network has created an online Forum on Delphi, called "Network of Religious Futurists." With the message board, you can view discussion folders quickly in the left-hand column and read up to 20 messages at a time. As the Forum Host, John-Brian provides options such as real-time Chat, announcements, and custom web pages. He's chosen to make this Forum public, so tell your friends. The best way into the Forum is at: http://www.delphi.com/futurereligion

World Network of Religious Futurists

A similar, international network is the World Network of Religious Futurists. Led by Dr. Richard Kirby and news editor Jay Gary, WNRF was founded in 1980 and is loosely affiliated with the Society of World Futurists as a membership association dedicated to advancing the future of religion by encouraging scholars and activists to study the future of their religious traditions in view of world civilization. A recent article addresses 18 frequently asked questions about understanding and studying the future of religion. The web site is: www.wnrf.org

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE OF NAIN

NORTH AMERICAN INTERFAITH NETWORK is a non-profit association with a membership of approximately 60 faith and interfaith organizations and agencies. Its mission is to build communication and mutual understanding among interfaith organizations and diverse religious groups throughout North America. The Board brings together persons from the United States and Canada, representing religious traditions and interfaith organizations.

Officers of the Board of Directors:

Chair: Dr. Peter Laurence (Education As Transformation Project)
Vice-Chair: Dr. Lila Fahlman (Vision TV)
Treasurer: F. Gard Jameson (Readers of Urantia Book)
Secretary: Ralph Singh (Gobind Sadan USA)

Member Organizations, Friends of NAIN, and Subscribers are welcome!

Organizations seeking membership should address correspondence or questions to: NAIN c/o Dr. Peter Laurence, 512 Bedford Road, Armonk, NY 10504 USA / tel & fax: 914 273-8922.

NAIN is a non-profit association that depends on the financial support of member organizations, individuals, and other sources. Individuals who wish to support NAIN's activities are encouraged to become a "Friend of NAIN" by making a contribution of US $35 (or more) per year. In addition to helping to build communication and mutual understanding among interfaith organizations and diverse religious groups throughout North America, benefits include subscription to this newsletter and invitations to NAIN Conferences.

Sign me up as a ___ FRIEND OF NAIN ($35) Enclosed is my contribution.

Libraries may subscribe for $10. per year.

NAME _________________________________________________

ADDRESS_______________________________________________

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Mail donations and subscriptions to: NAIN c/o Paul Dodenhoff, 19 Kant Rd., Glen Rock, NJ 07452 USA