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Late Summer 2010 |
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The Newsletter of the North American Interfaith
Network, Inc. Building |
See us on Facebook. |
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NAINews Committee ° Judy Trautman, Editor ° Dr. Tarunjit Singh Butalia ° Rev. Paul Chaffee ° Susan Cook ° Bettina Gray ° Rev. Robert Hankinson ° Peter Laurence ° Dr. Teja Singh ° Terry Weller ° Dr. Jim Wiggins
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Young Adult Scholar
Reflections on Connect 2010 Connecting Between
Connects: NAIN and Social Media New Board Members and Officers Member Organization
Spotlight: WTB Acts of Kindness Weekend. JOB POSTING:
Charter for Compassion Project Manager National Council of Churches Plans Worship Day for Gulf
Healing URI Welcomes
Launching of African Union Interfaith Dialogue Forum Diverse Groups Work Together on Documentary Project |
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NAINConnect
Reports
Photos Wendy Stovall Summary
of NAINConnect 2010
http://www.nain.org/ConnectReport10.htm This report, with hyperlinked contents, is reconstructed from the Editor’s blog. Most of the content sessions include web links for further information. You may use it to skim, review, or further research Connect content. Paul
Chaffee’s Report
http://us.mg204.mail.yahoo.com/dc/launch?.partner=sbc&.gx=1&.rand=60vfk3n89mc1v#NAIN Paul’s enthusiastic report shares his impressions of a wonderful Connect experience. NAINConnect
on Flickr
These photos are two collections, one by the Editor and one by Wendy Stovall, our well-organized Connect 2010 registrar. http://www.flickr.com/x/t/0091009/photos/jltrautman/sets/72157624538382675/ and http://www.flickr.com/photos/jltrautman/sets/72157624669231326 NAINConnect
on YouTube
Harvard Pluralism Project interview of Young Adult Scholars’ Views on the Interfaith Movement http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGE6aDsTL5I&feature=player_embedded Glimpses of our annual Connect http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qLDvwsPiv94 |
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Young
Adult Scholar Reflections on Connect 2010
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David Sidhu [photo Stovall] |
Several days prior to my arrival in Salt Lake City, UT, for NAIN Connect 2010, I received a very generous email from a conference participant, extending a warm welcome to me for the upcoming conference. With this gesture, I became assured that, even though I had never been to NAIN or Salt Lake City before, I would encounter a very collegial and kind group. When I arrived, I soon realized that the spirit of the initial email permeated all of our informal and substantive activities, and that the others exhibited undeniably similar hospitality and courteousness towards me. |
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Of course, we were all present to discuss rather weighty subject matter -- the direction and contents of the interfaith movement. This dichotomy -- the gracious disposition of the attendees on one hand, and the seriousness of the conference theme on the other -- was reflected in opening remarks to the conference, delivered by Alan Scott Bachman, who called on those present to remember "Hawkeye" Pierce of M*A*S*H during the next few days. "Hawkeye," Bachman recalled, was a man who could maintain a light mood even though he was dealing with the harsh realities at hand. The serious nature of interfaith activities became quite clear with the keynote address, offered the next morning by Douglas Johnston, director of the International Center for Religion and Diplomacy. Dr. Johnston described, in compelling detail, his organization's efforts to bring critical regional conflicts -- in Sudan, Kashmir, and Afghanistan -- towards a path of sustainable peace. His talk was important not only because of the obvious necessity of attempts to secure peace in these beleaguered areas, but also because it demonstrated that interfaith activities can be more than pleasant conversations about different religious beliefs, but can result in tangible action with respect to significant societal and global problems. The relationship between thought and action was the basis for my presentation, delivered the next evening, and seemed to be a persistent aspect of the conference as a whole. The NAIN leadership and elder attendees appeared to possess every positive intention, informed by their work in the interfaith movement, to address national and international matters of social justice. To their considerable credit, NAIN brought together an impressive group of young scholars with the passion, motivation, and ideas to channel those existing intentions and resources into actual social change. NAIN appeared to be very interested in -- and seemed to feed off of -- the enthusiasm and accomplishments of these younger scholars. And, perhaps recognizing the untapped potential of these scholars, the NAIN leadership invited some of the younger scholars, including myself, to be a more integral part of NAIN moving forward. This, in my estimation, represents a very promising outcome of the NAIN conference. A stronger relationship between the old guard and the newer blood likely may give rise to a more energetic, involved, and active interfaith community. NAIN 2010 thus was an excellent start to what should be a growing, budding link between these two constituencies of the interfaith movement. As a result, I left Salt Lake City not just with new friends and colleagues, but with a renewed sense of optimism in the potential of interfaith activities to produce a more cohesive, respectful, and peaceful global community. |
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Hillary Kaell |
For me, the SLC NAIN connect was a wonderful introduction to interfaith work. It was instructive to meet and hear from those people Karen Boyett calls "our heritage holders." But instead of resting after a lifetime of interfaith work, it turns out that heritage holders are as active as ever! From interfaith gardens to speaker series, it was inspiring for me to see all of the projects at the grassroots and to know that I am just at the beginning of a journey that can unfold over a lifetime. |
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Perhaps the most exciting part of the Connect, for me, was the chance to meet my fellow "young scholars." How nice of NAIN to do all the vetting in order to come up with a group of amazing people with whom I'd like to be friends. Much easier than meeting people the old-fashioned way. I now plan to get the NAIN committee’s opinion about all my potential friends in the future. Last, regarding Salt Lake City, although I would have liked a session about LDS interfaith specifically, I thought it was so very appropriate to have the Connect in a place where, as Rev. Jerry Hirano at the Buddhist Church put it, religion is everywhere. Belief is tangible in Salt Lake City, as are questions about how minority/majority religions work together and how missions-oriented faiths work with others. I felt that it was so very appropriate to hold it there and it added much to the experience, particularly for us young scholars who were fortunate enough to spend some time with local families. |
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Skyler Oberst |
Heading to Salt Lake for the 2010 NAIN connect, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised to meet so many like-minded individuals, who share my passion for peace and understanding. It was refreshing to hear others’ experiences in the interfaith movement, and getting to know the connect-goers was truly inspiring and humbling. I felt especially close to my new friends, the young scholars, with whom I instantly became friends. It was amazing to hear all of the good works they have done, which served as inspiration and motivation to me. I am so grateful to have attended this wonderful event. Being from an out-of-the-way part of the country, I was motivated to realize that the interfaith movement is afoot, and that I am not alone. |
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It was also the perfect venue for such a conference, being in the beautiful, welcoming, and diverse Salt Lake City. The Latter Day Saints were persecuted, hounded and forced from their homes because of their religious beliefs. To be able to walk in Temple Square, discussing ways to mend our broken world, and end violence and bigotry was both humbling and a perfect testament to what the future holds. I know that I have gained much from attending this event, and I will treasure the friendships I have made, and the projects from which I learned. You can count on seeing me at the NAIN connect 2011! |
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Peter Womack |
My personal journey within the InterFaith Movement began eight years ago with my new found studies in comparative religion. I was always interested in building multicultural, multinational, multi-ethnic bridges, but this was somewhat limited without the inclusion of what guides culture, nations, and ethnicities: belief systems. So I began to research organizations involved in building interreligious cooperation and understanding. This began my trek into the InterFaith Movement. |
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After becoming involved locally, nationally, and internationally within the InterFaith Movement, I have found that one of the most critical factors of success within the Movement is relationship building. Doug Johnston addresses this within the keynote speech he gave at the NAIN Connect. I think this, relationship building, may be one of the strongest attributes of the NAIN Connect as well. At the NAIN Connect, there was substantial opportunity for participants to conversate and socialize with each other within the context of the conference. I met talented and motivated youth who inspire me to further my own occupational endeavors within the InterFaith Movement. I also met veterans who have the wisdom and network to facilitate the enhancement and expansion of the InterFaith Movement. I am excited about the prospects that lay ahead for the InterFaith Movement. One of the specific areas of my interest is in bridging the historic divide between the Abrahamic religions and the Eastern religions. I am interested in working towards the inclusion of comparative religion education in public schools. I am also interested in the prospect of forming an international cable television network/website that specifically facilitates interFaith understanding and multicultural awareness (akin to an interFaith version of combining CNN and YouTube: similar [to] the initial model of Current TV). There is much that can be offered by the InterFaith Movement. There is much that should be expected; because there is much that is needed. |
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Erin Bilir |
I was thrilled to be included in NAIN as a young adult scholar and felt that the conference provided me with new insights into the interfaith movement. As a seventeen year old, it was inspiring for me to meet individuals who have taken their passion for faith and spirituality and used it as a vehicle to foster peace and initiate global change. I deeply appreciated the opportunity to exchange ideas and perspectives with the other young adult scholars, all of whom are incredibly accomplished and fascinating individuals. |
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I was also very impressed by the panel on new social media at the event. As someone who firmly believes that the internet has the potential to further interfaith dialogue and collaboration, I was very pleased to see that NAIN is exploring these technological avenues and is weighing the costs and the benefits. I plan to use the tools and information which I have acquired at NAIN to further interfaith activity within my school and community and to bring new dimensions to my writing and research. |
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NAIN
Is Seeking Interns
NAIN is offering two intern positions with a one-year commitment of 12-15 hours a week. Candidates should be familiar with and committed to interfaith work and have a passion for interfaith relations and religious and cultural diversity. Upon completion of the year commitment, interns will be paid a small stipend of $500 each. Interns will receive valuable experience in marketing, networking, organizational development, outreach, and program planning for a non-profit organization with an international focus. Interns will have the opportunity to be immersed in the Interfaith Movement and to meet and work with prominent people in the field. Preferred deadline is no later than September 25, but late applications will be considered if the positions are not already filled. For more information and to apply click http://www.nain.org/NAINInterns.mht Connecting
Between Connects: NAIN and Social Media
One of the most important aspects of NAIN is the connections we make with others in North America who are devoted to various aspects of interfaith work. Most of these connections are initiated in the face-to-face meetings of our annual Connects. In between Connects, we have a website, a quarterly online newsletter, and an online worksite for members. The NAIN Board of Directors has voted to explore ways of developing additional connections through social networking. We invite you to visit, ‘like’, and post to our official NAIN Facebook page. [It has come to my attention that there is also an unauthorized NAIN FB page. I am trying to see who put it up and have it withdrawn. In the meantime, please use the authorized one which has actual postings and over 140 fans.] http://www.facebook.com/pages/North-American-Interfaith-Network/111080275589796
We are also in pre-launch phase of a more personalized social networking site called NAINConnector. Some of us are test-driving it and we hope to launch soon. The goal is to provide space for all NAIN Orgs and Associate Members to showcase their interfaith work and concerns, share ideas and solutions, and generally support one another. News
of NAIN Board Members
New
Board Members and Officers
Yanina Vashchenko, Betsy Wiggins, Rachael Watcher, Brian Farr, Jason Smith Regularly scheduled elections were conducted at the 2010 Annual General Meeting. Yanina Vashchenko and Betsy Wiggins, formerly completing 2-year appointed terms, were elected to full 4-year terms. Betsy Wiggins will serve as Programs Chair. Rachael Watcher was elected to a 4-year term. The Board expressed sincere appreciation to Barry Cook and Barbara Trites who have completed their elected terms. Former Chairs Kay Lindahl and Mike Goggin were made Honorary Board Members in recognition of their long service and many contributions. Teja Singh and Woody Trautman were made Corresponding Board Members in recognition of their service to the Board. The Board appointed Brian Farr and Jason Smith to 2-year appointed terms. Bettina Gray continues as Chair of the Board. Rob Hankinson will serve as Chair-Elect / Vice-Chair, as well as continuing as Secretary. Sam Muyskens will be the Treasurer and Chair of the Finance Committee. See a complete list of our Board Members on our website http://www.nain.org/BoardMembers2010.pdf Interfaith
Visionary Honoree
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Kay Lindahl |
NAIN Board Member Kay Lindahl is to be honored this fall as an Interfaith Visionary by the Receiving this honor from the Temple of Understanding has
taken me by surprise, especially when I view the interfaith luminaries on the
list! I think perhaps what I represent is the thousands and thousands of not
so well known people who give their hearts and souls to the interfaith movement
around the world... |
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Women
have always been part of this grass-roots sector and there's a growing
awareness of the particular contributions they make and the gifts of feminine
leadership that women bring. I am deeply honored to stand for these women as
well as for all those who work tirelessly to sustain interfaith dialogue and
action on the planet. Kay shares that fellow NAIN Board Member Paul Chaffee, recently retired Director of the Interfaith Center at the Presidio of San Francisco, will also receive this honor. Others recipients who are associated with NAIN organizations include Clark Lobenstine, Interfaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington; Dirk Ficca – Council for the Parliament of the World’s Religions; Charles Gibbs, United Religions Initiative; Paul Knitter - speaker at the NAIN Connect in Columbus; William Lesher - CPWR; Thomas Matthew - International Association for Religious Freedom; and William Swing – URI. Another honoree, Dr. K. L. Seshagiri Rao is a NAIN Associate Member. See more at http://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=15d4f7de1064a5171ce87bc0e&id=cebf674cc3&e=eb812a3788 Kay is also delighted that her book, The Sacred Art of Listening, is now printed in Spanish under the title El Sagrado Arte de Escuchar, published by MTM available from http://www.eljardindellibro.com/ in Spain. This has been a dream of hers for years! Member Organization Spotlight: WTB Acts of Kindness Weekend
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Women Transcending Boundaries” (WTB), was founded by Betsy Wiggins and Danya Wellmon in Syracuse, NY, as a positive response to the horrors of 9/11. WTB has had great success and has grown enormously, as it sponsored blood drives, international dinners, lectures, and other events geared towards community-building. Its most ambitious project, A-OK (Acts of Kindness) Weekend, will take place September 11 and 12. About 100 community groups have committed to undertake service projects throughout the region. Participants will gather at seven hubs and then disperse throughout the city to engage in work with diverse groups of people. |
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Participants will clean up parks, create community gardens, paint murals, collect non-perishables, repair bikes to be given to refugees, create a children’s labyrinth at the Jowonio School, and more. The weekend also includes celebrations, music and art. For more information, see http://www.wtb.org/ or http://www.facebook.com/pages/North-American-Interfaith-Network/111080275589796#!/pages/A-OK-Weekend-Syracuse/119242094764322 News
Briefs
JOB
POSTING: Charter for Compassion Project Manager
The Fetzer Institute seeks an experienced project manager to coordinate partners, events, activities, and resources related to the Charter for Compassion. The position is fixed-term for 10 months, with the potential to renew. Questions can be directed to CharterManager@fetzer.org. To apply, please email cover letter and CV/Resume to CharterManager@fetzer.org by Wednesday, August 25, 2010. |
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National
Council of Churches Plans Worship Day for Gulf Healing
October 3, 2010: "Seeking God's Grace for the Gulf: A Day of Worship, Reflection and Healing" The National Council of Churches and its 36 member communions believe that prayer, reflection and healing are part of the long-term recovery that is vital for the Gulf. To begin this process, they are hosting a national event and invite congregations to join by hosting a worship service, candle light vigil or other event that lifts up the needs of those in the Gulf. They are developing worship materials, a bulletin insert, educational resources and other activities to use on this day. These materials can be found here. http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=iDDOsYVplkAmst9n%2BacOI%2FCieKy7lPUc URI Welcomes Launching of African
Union Interfaith Dialogue Forum
United Religions Initiative (URI) and its member organization in Ethiopia-Interfaith Peace-building Initiative (IPI) congratulate African Union, the President of Nigeria and the African Religious Leaders for launching an Interfaith Dialogue Forum at the African Union level. Ambassador Mussie
Hailu, Representative of URI at the
United Nations Economic Commission for Africa and Board Chairman of IPI said
"It is with great pleasure that both interfaith peace organizations
welcome The African Union (AU) initiative in launching an Interfaith Dialogue
Forum to harness the power of religious communities for the integration and
development in Africa at a conference with religious leaders from 15 to 17
June 2010 in the Nigerian capital Abuja under the theme of Advancing Justice,
Peace, Security and Development in Africa
It is an idea whose time has come to establish a permanent
consultative structure to the AU which will meet in every two years." URI and IPI are an interfaith peace organizations which are working to promote the teaching of the Golden Rule, enduring, daily interfaith cooperation, to end religiously motivated violence and to create cultures of peace, justice and healing for the Earth and all living beings. URI has a Consultative Statues at the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Read more at: Diverse
Groups Work Together on Documentary Project
Families and friends from diverse faith traditions in Surrey, BC, are working together on a documentary project that will celebrate their community’s religious diversity and help to make their community more welcoming and inclusive. The documentary is titled: “Families and Faith: Raising Children in a Multifaith Community.” It will follow a group of families as they tour various houses of worship in Surrey and learn about the people and practices of each faith tradition. A more detailed description of the documentary can be viewed online at: snfp.ca/documentary/Himar.pdf. Filming will begin this fall. The project is a collaboration between a number of different faith communities and secular organizations in Surrey. It is spearheaded by the Surrey Neighbouring Faiths Program, DiverseCity, and Himar Productions, a local video production company. For more information, visit www.snfp.ca or contact David Dalley, Project Coordinator at info@snfp.ca or (604) 502-8661. A Million Minutes for Peace
Odyssey Networks invites you
to participate again this year in A Million Minutes for Peace. People of different faiths from all over
the world will stop at noon and pray for peace for one minute - each in their
own way on September 21st - the U.N. International Day of Peace. For more
information or to particiapte, please go to http://www.amillionminutesforpeace.org/
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By Judy Lee Trautman, NAIN Communicatons Chair |
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Occasionally I get submissions from non-members. Usually I include mentions only if the items are about clearly identifiable interfaith subjects or work. The following are not so clearly related to our usual interfaith work, but seem to be projects that are genuinely seeking peace, if in somewhat unusual ways. Peace
Poetry
One is by physician-poet Hugh Mann, who was ‘inspired by his personal odyssey and thirty years of medical practice’. He sent the following thought: Religions are based on scripture, which is mostly
poetry. So it only makes sense that religious conflict must be resolved
through poetry, and not through politics, negotiation, or war. I propose that
all religious conflicts be redefined poetically, so that they can be resolved
without bloodshed, winners, or losers. So let's sharpen our pencils, not our
swords; send missives, not missiles; and apply our minds to metaphor, simile,
rhyme, meter, and prosody, but not pomposity, animosity, ferocity, atrocity, or
monstrosity. His unpretentious website includes a poem with interfaith comments. http://organicmd.org/poetry.html#BROTHER Truth
Contest
A much more technically ambitious website was developed by college students Lily Prazsky and Xavier Moutoux who are “dedicated to seeking, defining, and spreading the truth of life”. They feel that there is an objective, universal truth that can unite religions. Nothing
will unite religions like the truth.
Our site is dedicated to finding, defining and spreading a universal
truth that will unite the human race.
[…] The Truth Contest is really not a competition with a winner. It is
just the best way to find, define and spread the truth. www.truthcontest.com National
Forgiveness Day
Robert “Mr. Happy” Moyers is promoting National Forgiveness Day: A Celebration Of The Power Of Love & Joy Of Forgiveness on Saturday, Oct. 30, 2010. He wants to create awareness and understanding of the power of love and the joy of forgiveness by having volunteers distribute copies of their “Power Of Love Joy Of Forgiveness” health/wellness plan to as many people as possible. |
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Wisdom Corner
Here are two Sloks (verses) from Sheikh
Farid (1173-1265), a Muslim Sufi saint. Farid, return good for evil; Let not the sun go down with your wrath. Your body then be free from sorrow, and All things you most desire you shall have. Farid, why do you wander From place to place In search of your Lord? Lord resides in your heart. Back to Contents |
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